Study guide Master courses

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1 faculteit ruimtelijke wetenschappen Study guide Master courses Adres: / Visiting Address: Faculteit Ruimtelijke Wetenschappen / Faculty of Spatial Sciences Landleven AD Groningen Postadres: / Postal Address: Postbus AV Groningen Telefoon: / Phone: (050) /3897 Fax: (050) Internet: General information for students (timetable, degree certificates, modifications and supplements timetable): Redactie: / Editors: M. Kuipers I.L. Veen Although this study guide has been prepared with the greatest possible care, no legal rights can be derived from the text.

2 Study guide Master courses 2 Table of contents 1 General Information: Programmes offered by and organization of the Faculty of Spatial Sciences Introduction The Faculty of Spatial Sciences Admission requirements The FRW teaching organization International study programme Research Student organizations Information and information provision 18 2 Masteropleiding Culturele Geografie Waarom Culturele Geografie? Opbouw van de opleiding Toelating Carrièremogelijkheden 21 3 Masteropleiding Economische Geografie Waarom Economische Geografie? Opbouw van de opleiding Toelating Carrièremogelijkheden 24 4 Masteropleiding Vastgoedkunde Waarom Vastgoedkunde? Opbouw van de opleiding Toelating Carrièremogelijkheden 26 5 Masteropleiding Sociale Planologie Doelstelling Onderwijsperspectief Structuur van de master Korte omschrijving van de vakken 29 6 Master Lerarenopleiding Waarom de Lerarenopleiding? Opbouw van de opleiding Toelating Carrièremogelijkheden 34 7 Master in Population Studies Aims of the Master programme Why study Population Studies? Overview of the programme Admission criteria Career prospects 37

3 Study guide Master courses 3 8 Master of Environmental and Infrastructure Planning (EIP) Aims of the Masters degree programme Overview of the programme The demand for EIP graduates Admission criteria Career prospects 41 9 Research Master in Regional Studies; Spaces and Places, Analysis and Intervention Aims of the Research Master programme Structure and content of the programme Overview of the study programme Master Thesis Admission criteria Career prospects Modules/vakken Descriptions of modules Keuzevakkenlijst masteropleidingen Changes in modules/codes academic year compared with academic year Practical Teaching Matters from A to Z Addresses Administration CANS/RSI Cartography Change of address Complaints procedure Completing your studies and graduation Computer facilities Confidential Advisor Cost policy Course unit information Donald Smits Center for Information Technology Exam results Examination timetable Financial regulations Girugten Hospitality services International Office Lecture halls Master s thesis Medical care Nestor Opening hours and holidays Photocopying Pigeonholes Registration for course units and examinations Rules on cheating Spatial Sciences Library Special circumstances Student affairs Student assistant Student Support Desk online 66

4 Study guide Master courses Study advisor Teaching evaluations and analyses Teaching Office Textbooks Timetable UK (University newspaper) University of Groningen Library Onderwijs- en Examenregeling Master Culturele Geografie 2012/ Algemene bepalingen Opbouw van de opleiding Tentamens en examen van de opleiding Toelating Studiebegeleiding Overgangs- en slotbepalingen Onderwijs- en Examenregeling Master Economische Geografie 2012/ Algemene bepalingen Opbouw van de opleiding Tentamens en examen van de opleiding Toelating Studiebegeleiding Overgangs- en slotbepalingen Onderwijs- en Examenregeling Master Vastgoedkunde 2012/ Algemene bepalingen Opbouw van de opleiding Tentamens en examen van de opleiding Toelating Studiebegeleiding Overgangs- en slotbepalingen Onderwijs- en Examenregeling Master Sociale Planologie 2012/ Algemene bepalingen Opbouw van de opleiding Tentamens en examen van de opleiding Toelating Studiebegeleiding Overgangs- en slotbepalingen Teaching and examination regulations Master of Science in Population Studies 2012/ General provisions Structure of the degree programme Examinations and final assessment in the degree programme Selection procedure Tutoring Transitional and Final Provisions Teaching and Examination Regulations for the Master s degree in Environmental and Infrastructure Planning 2012/

5 Study guide Master courses General provisions Structure of the degree programme Examinations and final assessment of the degree programme Admission Study supervision Transitional and final provisions Article 6.2 Publication Teaching and Examination Regulations for the Research Master s degree Regional Studies; Spaces and Places, Analysis and Intervention 2012/ General provisions Structure of the degree programme Examinations and final assessment of the degree programme Selection procedure Supervision Transitional and Final Provisions Onderwijs- en examenregeling 1-jarige Master Leraar Voorbereidend Hoger Onderwijs in Aardrijkskunde (eenjarige postmaster) Algemene Bepalingen Opbouw van de opleiding Tentamens en examen van de opleiding Toelating Studiebegeleiding Overgangs- en slotbepalingen Onderwijs- en examenregeling Master Opleiding tot leraar voortgezet onderwijs van de eerste graad in Aardrijkskunde (tweejarige Educatieve Master) Algemene Bepalingen Opbouw van de opleiding Tentamens en examen van de opleiding Toelating Studiebegeleiding Overgangs- en slotbepalingen Rules & Regulations concerning examinations for programmes in the Faculty of Spatial Sciences Article 1 Applicability Article 2 Definitions Article 3 The administrative duties of the Board of Examiners Article 4 Number of people attending an oral examination Article 5 Final assessment Article 6 Cum laude (Distinction) Article 7 Examination times Article 8 Registration Article 9 Request for exemption Article 10 Order during examinations Article 11 Cheating Article 12 Examination papers Article 13 Assessment Article 14 Discussion Article 15 Standards 159

6 Study guide Master courses Article 16 Amendments to the rules and regulations Article 17 Date of commencement Student Charter The Student Charter Applicability Publication Using the Student Charter Items in the Student Charter Addresses Central bodies University of Groningen Admission for FRW Master s degree programmes FRW Master s degree programmes Admission to a FRW Master s degree programme Intake procedure for FRW Master s degree programmes Variable pre-master programmes 164

7 Study guide Master courses 7 Important dates academic year 2012/2013 Semester 1-a: Lecture period: starts Monday 3 September 2012, ends Friday 26 October Examination period: starts Monday 29 October 2012, ends Friday 9 November Semester 1-b: Lecture period: starts Monday 12 November 2012, ends Friday 11 January Examination period: starts Monday 14 January 2013, ends Friday 1 February Semester 2-a: Lecture period: starts Monday 4 February 2013, ends Friday 22 March Examination period: starts Monday 25 March 2013, ends Friday 12 April Semester 2-b: Lecture period: starts Monday 15 April 2013, ends Friday 7 June Examination period: starts Monday 10 June 2013, ends Friday 12 July The registration periods for the modules are as follows: Semester 1a: Bachelor: 6 August September 2012, Master: 15 August September 2012 Semester 1b: 15 October November 2012 Semester 2a: 7 January January 2013 Semester 2b: 18 March April The registration periods for exams that fall within the regular exam period are as follows: exam period semester 1a: 1 October October 2012 exam period semester 1b: 10 December January 2013 exam period semester 2a: 25 February March 2013 exam period semester 2b: 13 May June In principle, teaching only occurs during the two semesters. The period 24 December 2012 to 4 January 2013 is a non-teaching period. The university facilities and the Faculty of Spatial Sciences are closed on the following dates in academic year 2012/2013: During the Christmas period: 24 December 2012 to 1 January 2013 On Good Friday: 29 March 2013 On Easter Monday: 1 April 2013 On Queen s official birthday: 30 April 2013 On Ascension Thursday: 9 May 2013 On Whit Monday: 20 May 2013 On Liberation of Groningen: 28 August 2013

8 Study guide Master courses 8 Lecture timetable Academic Year Week Semester Module registration/ Exam number weeks adjustment registration Semester 1a 3-Sep 36 1 ** (sem 1a) Start: 3-Sep 10-Sep Sep 38 Lectures 3 24-Sep Oct 40 5 x (sem 1a) 8-Oct 41 6 x (sem 1a) 15-Oct 42 7 x (sem 1b) x (sem 1a) 22-Oct 43 8 x (sem 1b) 29-Oct 44 Exam weeks 9 x (sem 1b) 5-Nov Semester 1b 12-Nov 46 1 Start: 12-Nov 19-Nov Nov 48 Lectures 3 3-Dec Dec 50 5 x (sem 1b) 17-Dec 51 6 x (sem 1b) Christmas period: 24-Dec 52 Christmas break x (sem 1b) 24-Dec - 1-Jan 31-Dec 1 x (sem 1b) 7-Jan 2 Lectures 7 x (sem 2a) 14-Jan 3 8 x (sem 2a) 21-Jan 4 Exam weeks 9 x (sem 2a) 28-Jan 5 10 Semester 2a 4-Feb 6 1 Start: 4-Feb 11-Feb Feb Feb 9 Lectures 4 x (sem 2a) 4-Mar 10 5 x (sem 2a) 11-Mar 11 6 x (sem 2a) 18-Mar 12 7 x (sem 2b) Good Friday: 29-Mar 25-Mar 13 8 x (sem 2b) Easter Monday: 1-Apr 1-Apr 14 Exam weeks 9 x (sem 2b) 8-Apr Semester 2b 15-Apr 16 1 Start: 15-Apr 22-Apr 17 2 Queen's birthday: 30-Apr 29-Apr 18 3 Ascension Thursday: 9-May 6-May May 20 Lectures 5 x (sem 2b) Whit Monday: 20-May 20-May 21 6 x (sem 2b) 27-May 22 7 x (sem 2b) 3-Jun Jun Jun Jun 26 Exam weeks 11 1-Jul Jul Jul Jul Jul 31 5-Aug 32 Summer vacation 12-Aug Aug 34 Liberation Groningen: 28-Aug 26-Aug 35 ** Bachelor: 6-Aug - 7-Sept 2012, Master: 15-Aug - 7-Sept 2012

9 Study guide Master courses 9 1 General Information: Programmes offered by and organization of the Faculty of Spatial Sciences The curriculum of the Faculty of Spatial Sciences (FRW) is designed to offer high-quality academic education of international repute and standing. The FRW educational concept, with its emphasis on the intertwining of teaching and research and its recognition of the importance of a stimulating academic environment, is designed to develop an academic attitude in the students. The mission statement of the FRW contains an elaboration of the foregoing (see 1.2.1). 1.1 Introduction Degree programmes The educational programme of the FRW comprises two Bachelor s programmes, nine Master s programmes, one of them being the Research Master, and PhD programmes under the auspices of the Graduate School. The programmes are divided over semesters and the study load is calculated according to the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS). 1 ECTS is the equivalent of 28 hours of study; one study year is the equivalent of 60 ECTS and 1680 hours of study. The FRW offers the following programmes: Bachelor s degree programmes (three years, leading to a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree): Human Geography & Planning (SG&P) Environmental & Infrastructure Planning (TP) Master s degree programmes (mostly one year, leading to a Master of Science (MSc) qualification): Population Studies (in English) Socio-spatial Planning (in Dutch) Economic Geography (in Dutch) Cultural Geography (in Dutch) Real Estate (in Dutch) Environmental and Infrastructure Planning (in English) Geography and Education (2 years, in Dutch) Geography and Education (1 year, in Dutch) Research Master Regional Studies (2 years, in English) Students may follow part of their programme at one of the many foreign universities with which the FRW has exchange arrangements. Foreign exchange students may enrol in the three-month programme in English offered twice a year by the International School of Spatial Policy Studies of FRW. This programme is at Bachelor s level and Master s level. Three of the Master s degrees (Population Studies, Environment & Infrastructure Planning and the Research Master) and the PhD programme are taught in English and are open to foreign students. Bachelor s degree holders may participate in one of the two Double Degree Master s programmes the FRW has with the Institut Teknologik Bandung in Indonesia and the University of Oldenburg, Germany (Water and Coastal Management), respectively. The descriptions of the two Double Degree programmes are available upon request. The FRW is also a partner in the European Doctoral School of Demography, organized by a number of European demographic institutes. All information in the different parts of the study guide is presented in digital form ( For non-dutch visitors, a brief description is added in English on our Dutch educational programme.

10 Study guide Master courses The Faculty of Spatial Sciences Teaching and research in Human Geography (Cultural Geography, Economic Geography, Real Estate), Planning (including Environmental & Infrastructure Planning) and Population Studies takes place within the Faculty of Spatial Sciences in line with the Faculty s educational mission statement and educational concept The FRW educational mission statement and educational concept FRW considers its three primary responsibilities to be: (1) the academic teaching of human geography, planning and demography (2) conducting research in these three areas (3) consciously weaving together research and teaching. Teaching at FRW reflects the complexity of society with extra attention being paid to the composition and development of the population, spatial arrangements as regards places to live and work, and the required spatial planning, also in a technical sense. FRW strives to provide research and teaching of a high international comparative quality. The emphasis is on multidisciplinary knowledge acquisition as scientific progress occurs at the interfaces of disciplines. Science can only thrive in an environment where there is academic freedom and a feeling of responsibility, and global exchange of ideas. FRW therefore maintains close ties with sister institutions in the Netherlands and abroad and actively supports staff and student exchanges with these institutions. FRW opts for cooperation with governmental authorities, private companies and organizations both in the Netherlands and abroad. At the same time FRW as the only scientific institute in the field of Spatial Sciences in the North of the Netherlands fosters special ties with the cultural, social, economic and, in particular, spatial development of the region. As a consequence, part of the teaching and research programmes are focused on the region. The curricula are embedded in a stimulating educational environment with ample room for selection and personal development. This is further encouraged by educational activities that take place within an environment of openness, constructive thinking and interest in each other s work. The curriculum stimulates the development of an academic attitude in preparation for holding responsible offices. Students are encouraged to prepare for life-long learning. The FRW organization is aimed at creating and facilitating the conditions to enable staff and students to perform to a high standard. Staff and students play an important role in decisionmaking within the Faculty. Assertiveness of stakeholders ensures open relations that are indispensable for a vivid and thriving Faculty. Regular meetings are held with the alumni of the separate programmes and with other external experts to check and assess and if necessary adapt and/or amend the Faculty s teaching and research policies General objectives of the Faculty teaching programme The aim of academic education is the realization of: Training in independent scientific research. Preparation for societal positions that require an academic grounding. Academic training is the main issue. This implies that: all Bachelor s graduates are able to make a well-reasoned choice for a Master s degree programme or career. all Master s graduates are able to independently follow developments in their chosen field. the proper attitude has been instilled to continue to develop over the course of life, whether with or without postdoctoral programmes and/or postacademic training. the ethics and professional ethics inherent to an academic degree programme have been internalized. The Teaching and Examination Regulations (OER) and the respective chapters of the study guides provide a detailed description of the objectives and learning outcomes of the individual degree programmes.

11 Study guide Master courses Structure of the study programmes The examination programme of the Faculty comprises firstly a propaedeutic exam and a Bachelor s degree examination. After that there are the Master s degree examinations. These examinations are automatically considered passed once all the course units have been passed and other requirements of the degree programme have been met. Finally the defence of a PhD thesis as the conclusion of an academic programme is possible. The propaedeutic examination has a total study load of 60 ECTS and is held at the end of the first year of the Bachelor s degree programme. At the end of the first year and at the end of the second year that a student has been registered with the degree programme the Faculty will issue a binding study advice (BSA) regarding continuing in the programme. The BSA is based on the study results of the course units in the propaedeutic phase. If a student has gained insufficient ECTS credit points in the first year or fails to complete the propaedutic phase in 2 years, the BSA will be negative and the student will have to stop. After the propaedeutic phase, there remain two years or 120 ECTS in the Bachelor s programme. The full Bachelor s programme thus comprises 180 ECTS. It is up to each individual student whether they decide to earn more than the compulsory 180 ECTS by adding extra course units to their study programme. After completion of one of the two FRW Bachelor s degree programmes, a choice can be made from Master s programmes offered by FRW or other institutions. Graduates of both Bachelor s degree programmes are directly eligible for at least one of the Master s degree programmes at the Faculty. Depending on the specific course units followed during the Bachelor s phase, the Admissions Board may require a student to follow additional course units depending on the specific requirements of a particular Master s programme. There is also the possibility to register for a Master s degree elsewhere, or to take a two-year Double Degree (DD) Master s programme in which FRW is participating. The successful completion of such a DD programme results in a Master s degree from both FRW and the partner university. A description of the DD curricula is available on request. FRW Master s degree programmes can also be followed in conjunction with the university teacher-training programme for the subject of Aardrijkskunde (geography). Students who have a Bachelor s degree in Sociale Geografie & Planologie are eligible under certain conditions. There is also a one-year version of the university teacher-training programme for Master s graduates. After graduating from the Master s degree programme, a select number of graduates will have the opportunity to join a research training programme, either at FRW or at another university, as an AIO (Assistent In Opleiding), OIO (Onderzoeker In Opleiding) or PhD scholarship student. At FRW this is organized by the Graduate School Ambitions in the separate phases The ambitions in the propaedeutic phase, Bachelor s phase, Master s phase and PhD phase differ. European agreements have been reached regarding the Bachelor s, Master s and PhD degree programmes, with their learning outcomes outlined in the Dublin descriptors. The first year of the Bachelor s phase is given the separate name of propaedeutic phase and has the explicit purpose of orientation and selection. This implies that students (after 1 year) understand what the field entails and are able to make a balanced decision whether or not to continue with their degree programme or choose otherwise. The BSA can assist in selecting which students are likely to fruitfully continue their Bachelor s degree. The Dublin descriptors for the desired Bachelor s attainment level are: Knowledge and understanding: Have demonstrated knowledge and understanding in a field of study that builds upon and exceeds their secondary education, and is typically at a level that, whilst supported by advanced textbooks, includes some aspects that will be informed by knowledge of the forefront of their field of study Applying knowledge and understanding: Can apply their knowledge and understanding in a manner that indicates a professional approach to their work or vocation, and have competences typically demonstrated through devising and sustaining arguments and solving problems within their field of study

12 Study guide Master courses 12 Judgement: Have the ability to gather and interpret relevant data (usually within their field of study) to form judgements that include reflection on relevant social, scientific or ethical issues Communication: Can communicate information, ideas, problems and solutions to both specialist and non-specialist audiences Learning skills: Have developed those learning skills that are necessary for them to continue to undertake further study with a high degree of autonomy In the Bachelor s phase a level is attained where the graduate is able to work professionally in society, with an academic attitude the graduate can begin a Master s degree programme. In the Master s phase the knowledge of the academic field of the degree programme increases to the point where reflection at an advanced academic level is possible. The Dublin descriptors for the desired Master s attainment level are: Knowledge and understanding: Have demonstrated knowledge and understanding that is founded upon and extends and/or enhances that typically associated with Bachelor s level, and that provides a basis or opportunity for originality in developing and/or applying ideas, often within a research context Applying knowledge and understanding: Can apply their knowledge and understanding, and problem-solving abilities in new or unfamiliar environments within broader (or multidisciplinary) contexts related to their field of study Judgement: Have the ability to integrate knowledge and handle complexity, and formulate judgements with incomplete or limited information, but that include reflecting on social and ethical responsibilities linked to the application of their knowledge and judgements Communication: Can communicate their conclusions, and the knowledge and rationale underpinning these, to specialist and non-specialist audiences clearly and unambiguously Learning skills: Have the learning skills to allow them to continue to study in a manner that may be largely self-directed or autonomous The Research Master is specific training to become an academic researcher. Therefore the focus lies even more strongly on ambition to conduct research and the demands the student must meet are even higher. Once the PhD phase has been completed by having defended a thesis, PhD candidates have proven themselves capable of independently conducting academic research, either by writing a monograph or by publishing a number of articles in academic journals and defending these in public. FRW strives to identify strongly motivated and excellent students wishing to do research at an early stage and to provide them with a challenging programme. The University of Groningen Honours College provides extra stimulus for excellent students in the teaching programme. The Honours College provides a route within the Bachelor s phase towards the Research Master University of Groningen Honours College With its University of Groningen Honours College (UGHC), the University of Groningen provides talented and ambitious students the opportunity to participate in a programme entailing extra challenges. The College offers talented students an environment within the University where they can critically examine knowledge and are challenged to develop new insights and innovative ways of thinking. The Master s Honours Programme is an extra programme worth 15 ECTS credit points. The programme is followed alongside the regular Master s degree programme. The theme of the Master s Honours programme is: Leadership: making the difference. The Master s Honours Programme will acquaint students with various theories and models regarding leadership. Students are also encouraged to further develop their leadership skills. The programme comprises four masterclasses, a leadership lab and a Masterwork. In addition, explicit attention is paid to personal development.

13 Study guide Master courses 13 The Honours College is intended for students who wish to excel and are capable of doing so. As a result, not every student is admitted to the Honours College. There is a selection procedure for admission to the Honours College. Information about the procedure and requirements can be found at You can also find more information about the programme there. The address of the Honours College is honours@rug.nl. The FRW Honours Programme coordinator is Dr S.G. Weitkamp, s.g.weitkamp@rug.nl. 1.3 Admission requirements Admission to the propaedeutic phase of the Bachelor programmes Prospective students with a VWO diploma in a certain profile will be admitted to the propaedeutic phase of Human Geography & Planning and Environmental & Infrastructure Planning 1. Applicants with a foreign diploma equivalent to a Dutch VWO diploma must contact the study advisor for further information about the admissions procedure Admission to the Master s programmes A University of Groningen Bachelor s degree in Human Geography & Planning or Environmental & Infrastructure Planning in principle grants access to any of the FRW Master s programmes, with the exception of the Master s programme in Geography and Education. Only holders of a Bachelor s degree in SG&P will be granted access to this MSc. A Bachelor s degree in TP only grants access to the Master s programme in Geography and Education if a special bridging programme worth 30 ECTS credit points has been taken and passed. The Minor in Population Studies is recommended for the Master s in Population Studies. Admission to the Research Master s programme is on an individual basis with each application being assessed by the Board of the Graduate School. In the event of doubt as to the chances of successful completion of the programme, the Admissions Board of a Master s programme may impose additional requirements before admission is granted. Additional requirements may also be imposed on students from other faculties in or outside the University of Groningen. With the latter group, an intake interview is standard practice. In all cases it is the Admissions Board s prerogative to formulate additional requirements. In some cases a programme of Minor course units can be prescribed Intake and through-put of HBO students HBO students with a propaedeutic diploma or a written testimony that grants transition from year 1 to year 2 of the HBO programme can enrol in the Bachelor s programmes of FRW. See the Bachelor s study guide for information concerning requirements and contact the study advisor. After the successful completion of a HBO programme it is sometimes possible under certain conditions to enrol in FRW Master s programmes. The student must first complete an individual bridging programme, set by the Admissions Board of the degree programme in question. 1.4 The FRW teaching organization The Teaching and Examination Regulations The Teaching and Examination Regulations (OER) for each programme are approved once a year. The regulations are approved by the Faculty Board after a proposal by the Faculty Board has been discussed by the degree programme advisory committees and agreement with the Faculty Council has been reached. 1 These students are advised to consult the Dutch version of the Bachelor s study guide. Foreign students should follow the instructions in the main text.

14 Study guide Master courses Faculty Board, Faculty Council and degree programme advisory committees The Faculty Board is nominated by the Board of the University of Groningen and comprises: a full professor: chairman (dean), responsible for Education or Research a member of the academic staff: vice dean and responsible for Education or Research a Treasurer responsible for daily management a student member as adviser to the Board, proposed by the student members of the Faculty Council. The current composition of the Faculty Board can be found on the FRW website. The Faculty Council has 10 members: 5 members are elected from the FRW staff once every two years 5 members are elected once a year by and from the students. The current composition of the Faculty Council can be found on the FRW website. The Faculty Council and the Faculty Board are assisted by a number of committees: degree programme advisory committee for the Bachelor s degree in Human Geography & Spatial Planning degree programme advisory committee for the Bachelor s degree in Environmental & Infrastructure Planning degree programme advisory committee for the Master s degrees in Economic Geography & Real Estate degree programme advisory committee for the Master s degree in Cultural Geography & Geography and Education degree programme advisory committee for the Master s degree in Socio- spatial Planning & Environmental and Infrastructure Planning degree programme advisory committee for the Master s degree in Population Studies & Research Master in Regional Studies. The degree programme advisory committees (OC opleidingscommissie) have as members both students and staff who are active within the degree programme. Among the important duties of the OCs are ensuring the degree programme s quality, identifying problems and suggesting possible improvements Departments (BE: Basiseenheid) The staff members of the Faculty of Spatial Sciences are divided over four departments (BE basiseenheid): Cultural Geography Demography Economic Geography Spatial Planning A department is an entity that organizes, coordinates and integrates the teaching and research activities of staff who perform duties in the same domain. Units may correspond directly to degree programmes, but this is not necessarily the case. The units do not play a direct role in the organization of teaching. The members of a BE are appointed by the Faculty Board. The Faculty Board also appoints the full professor who is in charge of that specific BE. A list of the current BE professors can be found on the FRW website Coordination of teaching and examinations Programme director On behalf of the Faculty Board, FRW has a single programme director in charge of teaching in the Bachelor s and Master s degree programmes. As of 1 st September 2012, the programme director is Prof P. Ike. The programme director consults with the OCs about the implementation of the Teaching and Examination Regulations at least twice a year. The Graduate School has its own director. The current director can be found on the FRW website.

15 Study guide Master courses Degree Programme Coordinators A number of programme coordinators are responsible for the day-to-day teaching matters in the various Bachelor s and Master s degree programmes. They are: Bachelor s degree programme in Human Geography & Planning: Dr S. Koster Bachelor s degree programme in Environmental & Infrastructure Planning: Dr M.A. van den Brink Master s degree programme in Socio-spatial Planning: Dr T. van Dijk Master s degree programme in Economic Geography: Dr W.J. Meester Master s degree programme in Cultural Geography: Dr T. Haartsen Master s degree programme in Real Estate Studies: Prof. A.J. van der Vlist Master s degree programme in Population Studies: Dr F. Janssen Master s degree programme in Environmental & Infrastructure Planning: Prof. J. Woltjer Master s degree programme in Geography & Education (1 and 2 year variants): H.C. Diederiks Research Master s in Regional Studies: Prof. P. McCann, Dr L. Meijering, Dr B. van Hoven and Dr C.H. Zuidema PhD programme: Prof. I. Hutter Board of Examiners The Faculty of Spatial Sciences has one Board of Examiners for all programmes. As the law prescribes, the Board is charged with the organization and coordination of all examinations of the degree programmes of the Faculty and with monitoring their quality. The current composition of the Board of Examiners can be found on the FRW website. 1.5 International study programme FRW encourages study periods abroad for students in all programmes and specializations. The Faculty also actively recruits foreign students for its programmes in English and for a programme that has been specially designed for exchange students. The Faculty organization for international education focuses on four target groups: FRW students who want to follow part of their programme abroad. P.J.M. van Steen is the contact person for this category. Foreign exchange students who study at our Faculty for a short period. P.J.M. van Steen is the contact person for this category. Foreign students who follow one of the regular FRW Master s degree programmes in English (Population studies, Environmental & Infrastructure Planning, Research Master Programme). S.E. Tiggelaar is their contact person. FRW students who want to enrol in a Double Degree programme (Environmental & Infrastructure Planning with the ITB Bandung or Water and Coastal Management with the University of Oldenburg). Dr. J. Woltjer is the contact person for these programmes. The Faculty has implemented a number of initiatives to promote FRW s international student exchange programme, including the establishment of an International Office, setting up a large number of cooperation agreements with foreign universities and, in order to promote teaching in English for visiting foreign students, the foundation of the International School of Spatial Policy Studies International exchanges (Study abroad) The Faculty offers its students various possibilities to spend part of their degree abroad. Finalyear Bachelor s students and students in Master s degree programmes are eligible for foreign programmes. Most of these programmes concern following lectures and/or tutorials, but some include the Bachelor project or the Master s thesis partially or entirely with or at a foreign partner university. In the latter case, one of the Faculty s lecturers will be responsible for supervision or co-supervision as well as the final assessment.

16 Study guide Master courses The International Office The International Office of the Faculty of Spatial Sciences is the primary point of contact for students of the faculty who are following or want to follow part of their programme at the Faculty of Spatial Sciences abroad, as well as for foreign students who are studying or want to study at our Faculty for a short period of time. The International Office: provides information for students who are preparing for a study period abroad. This information is provided in various forms, including general information meetings and a brochure entitled Studeren in het buitenland: een wegwijzer voor studenten Ruimtelijke Wetenschappen (available from the Teching Office, in Dutch only). It also provides and archives information about study possibilities at partner universities abroad and gives individual advice. It coordinates the administrative procedures concerning studying abroad (including registration at the university abroad and the provision of Erasmus or Marco Polo grants). It coordinates the registration of study results awarded abroad, in consultation with the Boards of Examiners or the programme or specialization directors of the Faculty. Registration forms for studying abroad, as well as further information about partner universities abroad, are available from the Teaching Office/International Office. For further information, please contact the Faculty coordinator for international student exchange programmes (P.J.M. van Steen). See also International School of Spatial Policy Studies The International School, in which staff members from all departments of the Faculty participate, is responsible for the English-taught programmes for foreign exchange students who are not following a regular degree programme at the Faculty. P.J.M. van Steen is the coordinator of this programme Preparing for a study period abroad Students who are considering a study period abroad are advised to start orientating themselves to possible destinations, conditions, dovetailing with their own study programme, etc., no later than during the first months of the academic year preceding the academic year that is to be partly or entirely spent abroad. See the brochure Studeren in het buitenland, een wegwijzer voor studenten Ruimtelijke Wetenschappen (available from the Teaching Office, in Dutch). We strongly recommend you attend the Faculty information meeting about studying abroad. It is also a good idea to check how the study period abroad can be dovetailed optimally with your own study programme, for example by examining the trimester or semester-based setup of the university abroad. If necessary, an advisory meeting with the coordinator of the relevant study phase or the Faculty coordinator for international student exchange, P.J.M van Steen, will be held during this phase of the process. In principle, registration for a study period abroad closes on 31 January of the year preceding the academic year during which it is to take place Cooperation agreements with partner universities abroad The Faculty has several cooperation agreements with universities abroad. These primarily concern agreements with universities in Europe within the framework of the Life-long learning programme of the European Community, including the Erasmus programme. Student grants are usually available and are provided via the Faculty for universities in the United Kingdom (Reading, Coleraine, Leeds, Newcastle), Finland (Joensuu), Sweden (Gothenburg, Stockholm, Lund), Germany (Frankfurt, Berlin, Munster), Spain (Zaragoza), Portugal (Lisbon), Hungary (Budapest, Pecs), Austria (Vienna), Latvia (Riga, Jelgava), France (Versailles), Italy (Milan) and Turkey (Istanbul). In addition, the Faculty has exchange agreements with several universities outside Europe. Agreements have, for example, been entered into with the University of Auckland in New Zealand. We also have agreements with a number of universities in the United States, including universities in Seattle, Washington; Geneseo, New York State; Gainesville, Florida; and Omaha in Nebraska. Furthermore, the Faculty participates in the NEURUS programme (Network for

17 Study guide Master courses 17 European and United States Regional and Urban Studies), together with universities in Europe (Berlin, Vienna), the United States (Urbana-Champaign in Illinois; Irvine in California; Gainesville in Florida; Phoenix in Arizona) and South Korea (Seoul). In academic years 2010/2011 through 2012/2013, the NEURUS programme will offer the ICURD programme (International Certificate on Urban and Regional Development) as an exchange option with four United States partners. Central to the NEURUS/ICURD programme is the theme of the Master s project. The students spend the second part of the academic year in the United States. The NEURUS/ICURD programme also includes seminars and a distance-learning module, which can be completed via the internet. Other possible destinations include Canada, China, India and Indonesia. In addition, the University of Groningen offers a limited number of opportunities for destinations such as New Zealand and Australia for students from all programmes and specializations. Students who visit a university that does not participate in the Erasmus programme may very well be eligible for a grant from the University s Marco Polo Fund. Your study period abroad must last at least three months in order to be eligible for a Socrates/Erasmus or Marco Polo grant. An additional requirement for the Marco Polo Fund programme is that the University of Groningen or the Faculty of Spatial Sciences maintains a long-lasting cooperation with the intended host university abroad. 1.6 Research The educational concept of FRW strongly emphasizes the interdependency of research and teaching. Course units that are vital to the image of an FRW degree programme will therefore always be taught by one or several active researchers within FRW. Where possible, their own research will be used to illustrate the study material. In this way, a cross-fertilization of teaching and research will be ensured. The Faculty of Spatial Sciences has established the Urban and Regional Studies Institute (URSI) for the promotion of research. The Faculty participates in the national research school NETHUR via URSI. The central research focus for the Faculty as a whole is the theme twist ( towards Wellbeing, Innovation and Spatial Transformation ). FRW not only carries out fundamental academic research, but is also active in the valorization of knowledge, translating existing academic knowledge into concrete, social applications. Knowledge valorization is not only aimed at regional social activities in the spatial sciences field, but also at national and international projects. The experience that is gained by translating academic knowledge into concrete applications is used in the teaching programmes. More information can be found at Student organizations FRW has a very active student body. Most students are involved in one or more of the three organizations within the Faculty: Ibn Battuta mainly concentrates on communication between the student members and between students and FRW, focusing on studying and leisure pursuits; Pro Geo promotes the interests of all students in the Faculty s management bodies. The Geo Promotion Foundation concentrates on organizing academic conferences and symposia Ibn Battuta Ibn Battuta is the student society of the Faculty of Spatial Sciences, named after the renowned Arab explorer. Every year, it organizes a wide range of activities, including trips abroad, excursions, lectures and workshops. Ibn Battuta also organizes textbook sales, drinks parties, parties and sport and career-oriented activities. Fresh tea and coffee are available in the coffee room, Duisenberg Building (room 13), every working day. The committee members are always willing to answer your questions. Students can also become active in Ibn Battuta there are committees and workgroups, or you could join the executive committee. Membership of the society costs only EUR 14 per year. Members of Ibn Battuta receive preference for the society s activities and the annual society almanac, and get a significant discount on books. Ibn Battuta is the ideal way to get to know your fellow students and to enrich your studies. For more information: bestuur@ibnbattuta.nl, tel. (050)

18 Study guide Master courses Pro Geo Pro Geo is the organization that promotes the interests of all FRW students. It does so in many different ways, the most important being that it is for students, by students. The Pro Geo board consists of the five student members of the Faculty Council. The annual elections take place in May. Any student can be a candidate for the Faculty Council and also vote via Progress. The Faculty Council also has five personnel members and has the right of approval concerning certain decisions that need to be taken. In addition, the Faculty Council can issue advice to the Faculty Board (FB). Students are able to influence the policy of the Faculty. In addition to its Faculty Council activities, Pro Geo is also there for complaints or suggestions from students concerning the teaching. These will be dealt with by both the Faculty Council and the degree programme advisory committees (OCs). These committees consist of two or three students and a number of lecturers. The most important task of an OC is to evaluate the course units offered in a block and annually to examine the new Teaching and Examination Regulations (OER). Pro Geo also maintains close contacts with the student member of the Faculty Board. Finally, every year Pro Geo and Ibn Battuta jointly organize the book sale and the Careers Day. In order for Pro Geo to function properly, feedback from other students is essential. Pro Geo also can t do without enthusiastic student volunteers. So, if you have any complaints or comments, mail them to info@progeo.nl, visit the complaints box on the website or speak to someone in charge at Pro Geo or with an OC. You will find their names on the website, as well as some other useful tips. You can also become more active the new OCs will be appointed in September/October and in February/March you can apply to join the new Faculty Council. If you re interested, send an e- mail or speak to someone! You can find more information on the website: Geo Promotion Foundation The Geo Promotion Foundation was founded by students of the Faculty of Spatial Sciences (FRW) of the University of Groningen in Since this time, the Foundation has organized annual conferences and symposia about relevant themes in the fields of planning, geography and real estate studies to encourage the integration of companies, government bodies and students. Students from all years, with or without previous experience, can join the board of Geo Promotion. This will enable you to actively use the knowledge you are gaining as a student and also to experience what management is all about. For further information: tel. (050) , contact@geopromotion.nl 1.8 Information and information provision First-year students and students who have joined a degree programme at the Faculty via a bridging programme may find it difficult at first to find their way through the maze of information about study and exam matters. We will therefore list a few general tips here. In addition to this study guide and the above-mentioned sources, the Faculty of Spatial Sciences offers various other sources of information, including: Ocasys, the electronic system with course unit information, accessible via Nestor, the electronic learning environment of the University of Groningen, accessible via On Nestor Portal, opening page after logging in. You will find all important messages relating to the Faculty. Student Support Desk online, Here you can find the answers to frequently asked questions or ask your own question. The Faculty website, Every student is given a personal account. Faculty will be sent to this address. Please check this account regularly or have the forwarded to the address you prefer! The Teaching Office, room 0024, provides information about timetables, exam dates, study results, transitional arrangements, etc. Study coordinator: Section of this chapter lists the coordinators for each degree programme. Please contact your coordinator if you have a specific question about the study programme.

19 Study guide Master courses 19 Noticeboards. We recommend that you check these regularly. UK (university newspaper), in particular the Announcements section. It is very important to stay informed about any changes to the timetable, activities in the Faculty and the Faculty student societies, etc. The Faculty does its best to publish such information in time via the above-mentioned media. However, students are themselves responsible for keeping up-to-date with information that is relevant for them. They are also responsible for ensuring that they are correctly registered and for checking their mail and regularly. Any changes to the timetable for lectures or examinations will in principle be mailed to students via the registration for the course unit concerned in Progress and Nestor. Students are responsible for any problems caused by incorrect registration or not reading their mail and . In order to make steady study progress, you need to be familiar with the electronic system for registering for course units and exams, the Progress system. Before registering, always consult the course unit information on Ocasys. You must order the core literature stated in the course unit information in time for all course units you will be following. If you have any questions about the organization of the degree programme that this study guide does not answer, or if you have trouble following the programme, please contact the study advisor, N.I.C. (Niels) Rambags, tel. (050) , If you have more general problems related to your studies, you can consult the University Student Desk (USD) or the student psychologists of the University (Student Service Centre,

20 Study guide Master courses 20 2 Masteropleiding Culturele Geografie Coördinator: dr. Tialda Haartsen Verschillende plekken kunnen voor verschillende mensen verschillende betekenissen hebben. In de Master Culturele Geografie gaat het over de processen die daar een rol in spelen, het effect wat het kan hebben en het beleid dat mogelijk is om het te beïnvloeden. Je leert dat ter plekke waar te nemen, te beschrijven en te analyseren, inclusief de relevante sociale, economische, politieke en culturele context. De Master Culturele Geografie wil bereiken dat studenten zelfstandig een wetenschappelijk onderzoek kunnen verrichten. Maar de culturele geografie staat ook midden in de samenleving. Daarom is het belangrijk dat studenten leren wat de relevantie is van de onderzoeksresultaten voor niet-wetenschappers, zoals beleidsmakers, journalisten, studenten en leerlingen, en het brede publiek. Daarom word je ook praktijkgericht getraind in effectieve informatieoverdracht, bijvoorbeeld in de vorm van journalistieke teksten, beleidsteksten, foto s en videodocumentaires. 2.1 Waarom Culturele Geografie? De Masteropleiding Culturele Geografie, die recht geeft op de academische titel Master of Science in Cultural Geography, richt zich op studenten die zich willen verdiepen in de relatie tussen mensen en plekken: hoe mensen met plekken omgaan en wat plekken voor mensen betekenen. Het gaat dan om vragen als: Hoe komt het dat er zulke grote verschillen in de waardering voor plekken bestaan? Wie bepaalt eigenlijk welke plekken waardevol zijn? Op welke wijze kunnen waardevolle stads- en dorpsgezichten, landschappen en natuurgebieden behouden blijven? Worden geografische verschillen door globalisering weggevaagd of is er juist een opkomst van het streek-eigene? Hoe kunnen we plekken het beste inrichten om een bepaalde plaatsbetekenis aanwezig te laten zijn? De kennis en inzichten opgedaan in de culturele geografie worden ingezet in informatieoverdracht over verre en nabije plaatsen (journalistiek, toerisme, onderwijs) en in het bijsturen in de relatie tussen mensen en plaatsen (beheer van plekken, ruimtelijk beleid, erfgoedmanagement, natuurbeleid). Zo kan de samenleving betere (meer waardevolle) plekken creëren en daar ook effectiever over communiceren. 2.2 Opbouw van de opleiding Het programma van de Master Culturele Geografie duurt een jaar. Het programma begint in september of februari en neemt 60 EC (een jaar) in beslag. Het programma bevat 6 verplichte onderdelen van ieder 5 EC; er is 10 EC ruimte voor keuzevakken en de Master thesis neemt 20 EC in beslag. September-starters beginnen met de profielcursus Place & Identities, waarin de theoretische basis van plaatsbetekenissen opgefrist en verdiept wordt. In oktober is het Fieldwork Cultural Geography in Brighton & South Downs (UK), waarin geoefend wordt met elementaire cultureel geografische onderzoeksmethoden en technieken. In de methoden & technieken cursus Qualitative data collection methods (1b staat het doen van kwalitatief onderzoek centraal met behulp van diepte- en groepsinterviews, visuele data en via participatorische methoden. Februari-starters beginnen met de profielcursus Landscape & Heritage Identities. In deze cursus worden de theoretische inzichten toegelicht en actief toegepast op het thema omgaan met cultuurlandschap en erfgoed. In hetzelfde deelsemester wordt ook de cursus Social Impact Assessment aangeboden. Bij Social Impact Assessment gaat het om het analyseren, monitoren en managen van bedoelde en onbedoelde sociale gevolgen van geplande ruimtelijke interventies. In Beroepsvaardigheden voor cultureel geografen (2b) ga je in aparte ateliers (modules) praktisch bezig met activiteiten die na het afstuderen van belang kunnen zijn op de werkvloer. Dat is bijvoorbeeld het zelf produceren van effectieve plaatsrepresentaties in beeld en tekst. De ateliers zijn gericht zijn op het schrijven van beleidsteksten, het maken van offertes en het opstellen en uitzetten van offerte vragen. Maar je krijgt ook een sollicitatietraining, inclusief het presenteren aan werkgevers van de competenties die je in de master verworven hebt.