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Blekinge Institute of Technology
Department of Spatial Planning

Revision: 3
Reg.no: BTH-4.1.14-0241-2026


Course syllabus

Frontiers in Planning Research

Frontiers in Planning Research

7.5 credits (7,5 högskolepoäng)

Course code: FM2622
Main field of study: Spatial Planning
Disciplinary domain: Technology
Education level: Second-cycle
Specialization: A1F - Second cycle, has second-cycle course/s as entry requirements

Language of instruction: English
Applies from: 2026-03-25
Approved: 2026-03-25

1. Descision

This course is established by Dean 2023-05-02. The course syllabus is approved by Head of Department of Spatial Planning 2026-03-25 and applies from 2026-03-25.

2. Entry requirements

Admission to the course requires 60 completed second-cycle credits in the main field of study Spatial Planning. English 6.

3. Objective and content

3.1 Objective

The aim of the course is for students to acquire an in-depth understanding of current directions and themes of relevance to Spatial Planning within contemporary international planning research. The course thus aims to enable students to identify the current research frontier in physical planning and to reflect on its future development.

3.2 Content

The course addresses various international research directions and planning-theoretical perspectives on planning, relating these to Spatial Planning both internationally and in Sweden. Students conduct a systematic literature review to gain an overview of the current international research frontier in Spatial Planning and then select a theme to explore in greater depth.

4. Learning outcomes

The following learning outcomes are examined in the course:

4.1. Knowledge and understanding

On completion of the course, the student will be able to:

  • describe different international directions at the research frontier that are of particular importance for strategic spatial planning.
  • describe theories and theoretical points of departure that are of particular importance for strategic spatial planning.

4.2. Competence and skills

On completion of the course, the student will be able to:

  • discuss and critically review different research directions that are of particular importance for strategic spatial planning.
  • discuss and explore in depth a self-selected theme within the research frontier that is of particular importance for strategic spatial planning.

4.3. Judgement and approach

On completion of the course, the student will be able to:

  • reflect on the normative dimensions of strategic spatial planning.
  • reflect on research ethics considerations.

5. Learning activities

The lectures are delivered in English, while the language used in seminars may be adapted to the student group. Teaching is conducted in the form of lectures and seminars. In the seminars, students discuss their own work and their understanding of the research directions that they have chosen to focus on.

6. Assessment and grading

Modes of examinations of the course

Code Module Credit Grade
2510 Seminar 1.5 credits GU
2520 Written assignment 6 credits AF

The course will be graded A Excellent, B Very good, C Good, D Satisfactory, E Sufficient, FX Failed result, a little more work required, F Fail.

The examiner may carry out oral follow-up of written examinations.

The information before the start of the course states the assessment criteria and make explicit in which modes of examination that the learning outcomes are assessed.

An examiner can, after consulting the Disability Advisor at BTH, decide on a customized examination form for a student with a long-term disability to be provided with an examination equivalent to one given to a student who is not disabled.

7. Course evaluation

The course evaluation should be carried out in line with BTH:s course evaluation template and process.

8. Restrictions regarding degree

The course can form part of a degree but not together with another course the content of which completely or partly corresponds with the contents of this course.

9. Course literature and other materials of instruction

The literature is tailored to the student’s chosen specialization and is selected in consultation with the examiner.