Curriculum

MBR Curriculum

The curriculum of Master by Research refers to the Curriculum of Master by Coursework. However, in the MBR program, there are adjustments in terminology and course offerings to be more focused on research. In addition, the MBR program curriculum differs in the distribution of credit hours across four semesters. In the MBR curriculum, the distribution of credit hours from the first to the fourth semester is 15, 12, 10, and then 8 credits, respectively. Nevertheless, it is possible for students to fulfill the graduation requirements within three semesters in the MBR program.

Conceptually, the curriculum of Master by Research (MBR) Program consists of five interrelated clusters, all of which are prefixed with the term "research" to emphasize and distinguish this research-based master's program. The clusters are as follows:

The descriptions of each cluster are as follows:

Research-Supporting Theory Cluster

The Research-Supporting Theory Cluster is developed to provide students with theories relevant to the domain of urban and regional planning, covering both planning and spatial aspects. In this cluster, students are also given options to choose a concentration, theme, or topic for their research, as well as theories related to science communication, which will be useful for understanding, processing, and presenting scientific topics in their research. In a research-based program, it is possible that not all theories required for research will be taught within this theory cluster, so students are expected to take the initiative to study independently. These in-depth theories will be part of the comprehensive exam (research proposal defense).

Research Methods Cluster

The Research Methods Cluster is designed to provide a strong foundation in understanding and selecting research methods. At the beginning of this cluster, students will be introduced to or discuss various methods suitable for their research, while in the following parts, students will explore data variations relevant to their chosen topics, applying different methods or data analysis techniques.

Research-Supporting Practice Cluster

The Research-Supporting Practice Cluster is dominated by "workshops" or independent practical work done by the students. These activities may include fieldwork, internships, involvement in studio activities, or other independent activities. At the beginning of this cluster, students are expected to identify the scope of problems that will become the focus of their research, particularly linking them with theories, concepts, norms, and standards that could serve as the foundation for their research. In the following parts, students are expected to continue exploring their chosen topics empirically, with an emphasis on potential solutions. The final part of this cluster is fieldwork, specifically dedicated to exploring final study data.

Research Presentation Cluster

The Research Presentation Cluster accommodates activities related to writing, reporting, or disseminating research. This cluster begins with writing the research proposal, followed by the first and second colloquiums, which can be presented at either internal or external seminars organized by the MURP Program at DTAP FT UGM. In this cluster, students are also expected to effectively communicate the scope of their research to relevant parties or target audiences. The cluster concludes with the writing of the master’s thesis, which is a requirement for all students.

Research Publication Cluster

The Research Publication Cluster involves the accumulation of manuscript writing processes, from preparation to submission to appropriate publishers or conference organizers that meet the criteria set by the program. In this cluster, there are three potential publication activities: the first may contain a systematic review, the second may include initial data analysis, and the third covers the research topic that has been completed. Upon graduation, students are required to have two publications that have been accepted for publication, one of which must be in a reputable international journal. Meanwhile, the publication statement for the third (or subsequent) publication can be obtained after graduation with a special agreement.