Modules
Term one
Introduction to Urban Design
The module introduces the subject of urban design including key theories and concepts relative to urban design research and practice. The content is constructively aligned with an assignment that is based upon an urban design project.
Research Methods and Urban Design Theory
The module involves focussed study of classic urban design text(s). Study is led by small group seminars in which tutors facilitate informed debate and discussion based upon directed research. The seminars prepare students for a written assignment that requires critical analysis of a key text.
International Design Research Studio
The module offers students studio-based learning focussed upon a design ‘project’ or ‘challenge’. The ‘project’ will be devised in response to ‘live’ context in a UK city, and address issues that resonate with international, topical urban pressures and issues. The module content introduces techniques, methods and skills which are then revisited in the Semester 2 design studio module; it prepares the student for the Semester 2 design studio module.
Comprehensive Dissertation (note: this module runs in both term 1 and term 2)
The Dissertation allows students an opportunity to undertake a detailed investigation of a chosen architectural topic.
Term two
Urban Design Studio
The module introduces Urban Design as a set of practices drawn from the fields of Architecture, Landscape Architecture, and Urban Planning. This is primarily a studio-based module. Studio exercises are constructed around case studies, models, and scenarios within which students develop both a technical proficiency with, and a conceptual understanding of, design as tool for transforming urban contexts.
(Optional: Year Industry Placement between term 2 and term 3)
Term three
Urban Design Thesis
This ‘Major Project’ Module offers opportunity for students to demonstrate clearly that they have exercised initiative, personal responsibility, complex decision making and have acted autonomously in planning and implementing tasks at a professional level. The module has two pathways: whilst both focus upon ‘design’, one offers opportunity to conclude your studies in an extensive written thesis, whilst the other offers opportunity to conclude your studies in a thesis comprising of drawn/ modelled/ illustrated outputs in combination with a shorter written text.
Note: All modules are subject to change in order to keep content current.