The course focuses on the methodical treatment of complex planning issues in both urban and rural areas with the emphasis on problem- and solution-oriented drafting of spatial development hypotheses and their strategic assessment. Decision-making processes relating to spatial problems are simulated as realistically as possible and subjected to critical analysis. Key requirements include dialogue competence, an interdisciplinary approach and the ability to think spatially and develop spatial concepts, as well as initiative and creativity.
The master's projects deal with a different thematic focus every year. Interdisciplinary and cross-border themes are offered across a number of different TU research centres and cooperation is also sought with other universities. The thematic focus rotates between urban development planning, inward development of settlement structures, the design of development processes for rural and/or alpine areas, the coevolution of infrastructure, settlement and spatial development and the further development of planning and testing tools.
The master's project will deal with the Danube basin as a key European region, both as a whole and in sections. The spatial focus in 2017/2018 will be on the eastern Bulgarian Danube region focussing on Sofia, Veliko Turnovo, Ruse, Silistra and Varna) (Black Sea). Thematically the focus will be on the interrelationships between the development of spatial infrastructure and natural spaces/countryside and the resulting potentials for internal development of the settlement system. Strategic master plans will be elaborated and tested by means of SEA (Strategic Environmental Assessment).
