Units / UPD5500
UPD5500 · Independent research project
2026 Handbook6 credit pointsLevel 5Department of Architecture
Last checked: 23 Aug 2026 UTCOverview
This unit enables you to conduct scholarly research on topics related to Urban Planning and Design independently and in an ethical manner. You are required to produce a thesis paper at the end of the semester. The paper can take any of the following forms: (a) an independent scholarly research project guided by a thesis supervisor and unit coordinator; (b) a directed thesis contributing to a larger research effort in the discipline; (c) a professional thesis developed in the context of a student. In all cases, the thesis must be a piece of original, creative work conceived and developed by you.
Offerings
| Campus | Teaching period | Mode |
|---|---|---|
| Caulfield | Second semester | Some activities have a choice of on-campus or online teaching activities (FLEXIBLE) |
| Caulfield | First semester | Some activities have a choice of on-campus or online teaching activities (FLEXIBLE) |
Assessment
The Handbook does not list a final examination among the assessment items. That is not a guarantee there is none.
| # | Assessment | Type | Weight | Hurdle |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Project | Project | 100% | — |
100% in-semester assessment
Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.
Requisites
corequisite
- OHS1000 — Introduction to art and design health and safety
Learning outcomes
- Significantly contribute to debates within the field of urban planning and design, showcasing a deep understanding of relevant research methods and concepts;
- Conduct original, independent research using advanced qualitative and quantitative research methods to investigate complex urban planning and design topics;
- Integrate research skills, methodologies and findings into cohesive and coherent research projects that address significant urban planning and design issues by synthesising material and data utilising a range of techniques;
- Demonstrate a profound awareness of the ethical implications of research in urban planning and design, recognising the global and societal impact of research methods and practices;
- Use advanced interpersonal and communication skills to convey complex research findings through the use of texts, images, visualisations, design projects, verbal and visual presentations to diverse audiences;
- Adapt to evolving research challenges, seek new knowledge, and engage in continuous self-directed learning.
Workload
12 hours per week including weekly meeting with thesis supervisor (1 hour) and 11 hours of independent study.
| Activity | Duration |
|---|---|
| Tutorials | 36 hours |
Ask about UPD5500
Answered from the Handbook fields above — no AI, no guessing. Every answer links back to the source.
Community discussions about UPD5500
CommunityStudent experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.