Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

This unit is taken over two successive semesters and parts 1 and 2 must be completed to fulfil the requirements of the unit. Students can commence the unit in either semester 1 or semester 2. Through a self-directed process while working with an individual thesis adviser, students explore an urban design issue of personal interest such as the programming and design of a specific site or urban district, the resolution of a particular market demand or development objective, or the investigation of a particular design theory or technical design problem. Students produce a written thesis, either alone or with a design proposal, which offers a detailed specification of the selected topic and its significance. The thesis must present a critical evaluation of the design proposal and defend any research conclusions in the context of its theoretical basis. The products of the urban design thesis are expected to demonstrate a synthesis of the knowledge areas and skills covered in the course including development and execution of an appropriate design process, formal exploration and evaluation of design alternatives, design development of an optimal approach, and preparation of implementation strategies and design controls.

Credit
6 points
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) design and execute an effective process to analyse and resolve a complex design problem; (2) generate design concepts from a rigorously constructed theoretical position; and (3) critically evaluate the resulting design proposition and its theoretical foundations.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) production of a thesis proposal; (2) research program; (3) a design proposal and evaluation; and (4) presentation and defence of the project before a jury. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit rules
Prerequisites
refer to Faculty Rules for entry into the Master of Urban Design (coursework)
Contact hours
36 (individual tutorials: 12 x 3 hours per week)
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.