MA in Planning Research and Theory

This is a newly revised course, offered for the first time in Autumn 2005 and replacing the MA in Planning Research.

The MA in Planning Research and Theory is a planning research qualification for academic and professional researchers. It can be taken as a one year stand-alone degree, designed to develop specialist research skills relevant to practitioners in planning and related fields. It is also the preparation for a PhD following the 1+3 route, having been recognised by the ESRC as meeting the research training requirements for doctoral study, and successful UK and European candidates may be eligible for an ESRC studentship.

The MA is a full-time course which provides advanced level research training in the context of the planning discipline. It covers the entire research process, linking exploration of the social, political and theoretical context to research design and methods. Core modules cover the methodologies and philosophies of contemporary social science, the understanding of values in planning, information and communication skills, research design and research methods (both qualitative and quantitative). Students also choose from a wide range of modules providing advanced level specialised study in a substantive area of planning, in preparation for individual research projects. During the year individual tutors guide students through their research dissertations, from conceptualisation and design, through research work to completion. The dissertation will provide a solid foundation for PhD research and can also be the first year of a New Route PhD.