Master in Geography and Spatial Planning (académique)

The courses are organised in interactive and problem-oriented forms, providing the students with advanced conceptual and methodological knowledge as well as exposing them to realistic research situations that challenge their scientific and organisational problem-solving capacities.

First year

During the first semester, particular attention will be paid to individual intensive teaching (levelling-up) for any students with deficits in certain fields of knowledge, whether methodological or conceptual. After this initial phase, major topics within the first and the second semester are:

• Theoretical approaches in spatial analysis
• Spatial modelling and forecasting
• Cartography and GIS
• Conceptual approaches to governance and spatial development
• Integrative approaches to sustainable spatial development
• Spatial development in Europe
• Implementation and monitoring of spatial policies
• Preparation and submission of EU dossiers
• Project management skills

Second year

In the third semester, specialisation involves choosing between two tracks, spatial development and governance or spatial analysis and modelling: relevant to the spatial sciences, as well as qualitative methodological skills. It enables the students to analyse and monitor the social, political, and economic mechanisms behind quantitatively observable spatial phenomena. Prepare students for applied careers, concentrating on the case of the “Greater Region” which will be used as a showcase for cross-border regional development in Europe and the complex interplay between different national development policies and intercultural issues. This semester is also open to mobility within one of our four partner universities.

The fourth and last semester is dedicated to an internship as well as to the preparation of a Master’s thesis. The students’ research work during this semester is accompanied by individual supervision as well as regular meetings in a research seminar where the students report on the progress of their work and this can be discussed. The thematic courses are complemented by language courses offered during the first three semesters.

Study Handbook

Please find in the following handbook the detailed structure and curriculum of the Master.