Teaching
The programme is of a modular design and delivered through a combination of distance learning, with course materials, in various media, released through a virtual learning environment [VLE] and attendance at five intensive residential blocks in Cambridge (two of two weeks and three of one week), over the two years.
The course is taught through a combination of the following:
- Taught sessions by academics and practitioners
- Individual work including working through course materials on the VLE, compulsory non-formative exercises, course reading, and preparation of written work (primarily between the residential sessions)
- Group work including working through case studies, dialogue, debate and presentations throughout the taught modules
- Supervisions and support from the Land Economy faculty, tutors and supervisors from within the University
Residential sessions focus on taught sessions, practical applications, case studies and collaborative working, including presentation of project work and case studies, as well as individual supervision. The residential sessions enable students to learn from one another as well as from the academic faculty staff and external speakers.
Support and facilitation for students are provided by a team of faculty, tutors and supervisors from within the University.
| One to one supervision |
Each student will be allocated a Supervisor at the start of their first year of study and a Dissertation Supervisor in the second year of study. Supervisors provide general academic advice to students and subject specific advice relating to the dissertation. Supervision is a regular and important part of the course and students can expect to receive up to ten hours of supervision in the two years. |
|---|---|
| Seminars & classes |
Seminars are part of most modules and have largely been included in the lecture hours . In addition to those included in the lecture hours, there are 20 hours of managed discussions, debates and group exercises or workshops (in addition to those included in the lecture hours) over the two-year course. |
| Lectures |
There are approximately 160 hours of lectures over the two-year course. The number of hours may vary slightly as the course is constantly evolving in order to meet developments in the sector and in response to student and industry feedback. The lectures are intended to be interactive discussions with the lecturer. |
| Practicals |
Practical exercises and group work are, additionally, embedded in the residential sessions. There will typically be eight site and property visits over the two-year course, equating to approximately 40 hours. Students will also take part in a field trip to a European destination as part of their study. |
| Small group teaching |
Small-group teaching forms a regular part of the course and is included as part of the lecturing hours above. |
| Literature Reviews |
Most assignments and the dissertation require literature reviews. |
| Posters and Presentations |
Students present various pieces of work during the residential blocks. |
| Taught/Research Balance |
Equal Taught/Research
|
Feedback
Students receive regular summative and formative feedback throughout the course, formal and informal, individual and group, during face-to-face supervision and through written exchanges with their supervisors and/ or the module leaders. Each student is assigned a supervisor for the first year who completes a progress report at the end of year one, along with the support during the year. Dissertation supervisors are assigned in the second year and provide support and regular feedback as needed including a formal report in April. Students are also given feedback on the presentation of their projects and case studies during the residential sessions.
Assessment
Thesis / Dissertation
Dissertation of 12,000 words maximum (including footnotes and appendices but excluding bibliography), to be completed during the second year of the course.
Other
Assessments will be through a range of formats which may include coursework, written and oral examinations, posters, presentations and projects.
Attendance at all of the residential sessions and full and active participation in all elements of the course is compulsory.