The Urban Data & Methods component of the MUSPP is structured as a two-course sequence. Part 2, Urban Data & Methods II, focuses on qualitative approaches to understanding urban systems and experiences, and is taught in Term 2.

Building on foundational analytical training, this course aims to equip students with the conceptual grounding and methodological skills required to undertake qualitative urban research and generate context-sensitive insights that inform planning and policy. Students will engage with a shared theme—such as urban diversity—through carefully defined research questions, learning to move from exploratory inquiry to defensible, evidence-based qualitative claims.

The course emphasizes the design and conduct of qualitative inquiry, including interviews, observations, and interpretive analysis, as well as the development of strong research questions grounded in theoretical and epistemological awareness. A key focus is on understanding how different research approaches shape what can be known about cities, and on building students’ ability to produce rigorous, reflexive, and contextually grounded interpretations of urban phenomena.

By the end of the course, students will be able to design and execute a coherent qualitative research study, critically evaluate evidence and claims, and communicate nuanced interpretations of urban trends, providing a strong foundation for the Master’s Research Project.

Instructor: Dr Thijs Willems
Time: TBC
Venue: TBC