MASTER OF SCIENCE IN SOCIETY, URBAN SYSTEMS AND DESIGN (MSSUSD)

Module Code	Module Name	Description
MSSUSD501	Urban Design Theory	This module examines the physical and social form of cities. Cities achieve form over time and this module focuses on the theories, both normative and functional which have motivated and still inform the construction of cities. The module is divided in three sections; the first examines the nature of city form theory, the second section focuses on the modern city and the third section concentrates on current theory and practice on city form process, spatial and social structure and form models. This module enables students to understand the fundamental concepts of urban design theory hence it will enable them to come up with designs for cities and settlements that are sustainable and that cater for both the physical and social needs of the society.
MSSUSD502	Urbanism and Design	This module examines the form, context and philosophies of city structures and transformations. It helps students familiarise with the system of spatial planning and the basic tools of spatial policy. Students acquire skills in developing and presenting spatial development projects and land-use plans for selected urban areas. Moreso, the students will be empowered as far as formulation of spatial policies are concerned.
MIDSB501	Information Digital Skills for Postgraduates (University Wide Module)	The module introduces students to the use of information technologies and their application in academic research.
MSSRM501	Advanced Social Science Research Methods (Faculty Wide Module)	The module aims to provide advanced skills in research methods for graduate students. It enhances postgraduate students’ knowledge and skills for conducting, analysing and interpreting research in the field of sociology, anthropology and gender studies. The module focuses upon both qualitative and quantitative techniques and the knowledge gained, will be useful for conducting research and as tools for professional practice. The module will also equip learners with the use of digital technologies in data collection, processing, analysis and management. Students to conduct gender sensitive research for the relevant government institutions, UN agencies, NGOs and communities to inform gender policies and programming.
MSSUSD504	Urban Design Studio	This module hones the theoretical knowledge the student has gained in resolving a design problem on a green field site. This first part of studio will be an introduction to urban design city study, analysing the various factors that determine the morphology of the city and the referencing of selected sites to the study. The studio will assist the students in the methodology of conducting an urban design city study, techniques of surveys, analysis of information and presentation, typological studies and designs.
MSSUSD505	Urban Design and Social Change	This module equips students with an understanding on the relations between the physical and social organisation of cities and urban environments. This module gives students an opportunity to see design as a field of research thus gain knowledge and practice that shapes urban environments, responds to urban problems and integrates social, spatial and physical approaches to the city.
MSSUSD506	Transforming City Studio	This module equips students with skills to develop concepts, spatial structures, programs and design rules, and creatively integrate all these into robust urban design and architectural proposals. The leitmotif of this studio is to design liveable, beautiful and open urban spaces. Student are expected to gain knowledge and skills on reconciling the dynamic forces of urban transformation with architecture and planning. In this manner high quality urban spaces can be created that are responsive, yet specific to their context, contributing to a sustainable balance of our urban environment. The areas covered in this module are based on contemporary urban themes such as design and densification of urban nodes and quarters, revitalisation of former industrial and harbour areas, and sustainable transformation of the city landscape.
MSSUSD507	Cities, Energy and Economics Design	This module provides a general overview of the use of economic tools to understand and evaluate public policy issues surrounding energy markets and the environmental markets to which they are closely tied. Students will gain knowledge on the economic drivers of cities, energy production and use, transportation and storage of energy commodities, regulation of energy markets and policies designed to mitigate the impact of energy production and consumption in the city and on the environment.
MSSUSD508	Public Policy and Urban Design	This module introduces students to the process of policy making and who is responsible for urban design policy e.g. supranational, central and local government structures and the role of the private sector. An understanding of the policy process can inform students about how the process works and why things happen the way they do in regard to stakeholders, policy decisions, and implementing bureaucracies. As a result, the students will be able to offer services to both the public and private sector on policy formulation and implementation on planning issues and issues related to the built environment.
MSSUSD570	Dissertation	This module offers students an opportunity to undertake a research project in their area of specialization. Students are expected to demonstrate a clear understanding of gained knowledge on the nature, development strategies and conventions of research work. Students present a research work plan and timelines to their supervisors which they are expected to adhere to. Upon completion of the research project, they are expected to submit the project write up highlighting the key findings of the research. Students will acquire research skills through this module which are applicable in both the academic and professional world. This will enable them to set up or offer research consulting services for the built environment.