MA in Planning Research
A planning research qualification for academic and professional researchers.
The MA in Planning research is a one year full-time course which provides advanced level research training in the context of the planning discipline. 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. UK and European candidates who choose to follow the 1+3 route may be eligible for an ESRC studentship.
DurationThe MA runs over 12 months, with taught courses in two semesters, from September to June, with the dissertation being completed early in September. For 1+3 students, the PhD research is then completed in the following three years, during which time close contact will be maintained with supervisors, and students will be involved in regular research seminars and other research cluster activities. |
ContentThe course 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. For further information about the course content and structure in 2013-2014 please contact Dr Steve Connelly. |
PhD with Integrated Studies in City, Society and Planning
The MA in Planning Research can also serve as the taught element of a four-year PhD with Integrated Studies programme. Read more about this.
