54 graduate courses in Waterloo’s course catalog for Spring 2021, from UW Open Data. uwloo can’t read that term’s Graduate Calendar, so this stands in for it; the calendar itself is in Waterloo’s archive.
An examination of tribunals and boards that adjudicate matters related to land use planning, environmental and heritage protection, property assessment, land valuation, and other matters. Topics include: tribunal/board history; appeal rights and procedures; the roles and responsibilities of planners, lawyers and stakeholders; and critical perspectives regarding current and alternative practices.
An examination of planning issues related to the design, economics and financing of private land and building construction projects including residential high-rise condominium, low-rise residential subdivision, infill, intensification and brownfield redevelopment and industrial/commerial land development. The course focuses on developer decision-making, analysis of risk, sources of financing, planning, environmental and engineering aspects of land development. This course may include a field component. (Note: If a field trip occurs, the cost will not exceed $50.)
Examination of industrial location theory, and themes concerning the role of manufacturing in the space-economy. Factors of location will be considered as will the way that manufacturing has led to spatial disparity on international, regional and local levels.
PLAN 613Innovation and Economic Development in Cities and Regions
This course offers a critical examination of the innovation, knowledge creation and circulation, and governance processes that underpin contemporary economic development in cities and regions. Strategies, policies and programs that are intended to support and promote innovation and economic development in urban and regional economies are analyzed.
An examination of social planning and policy issues associated with Canada's housing system, considering the roles of various levels of government and the private sector in developing socially sustainable, affordable housing. The course considers the housing needs of various social and demographic groups. We use case study methods to examine the redevelopment of social housing. Issues of social mix, live-work, housing need and homelessness, and ways housing can create community are considered. This course normally includes a fee component. (Field trip will not exceed $60.)
Community Economic Development is a field of theory, process and practice that is concerned with understanding the forces shaping communities and finding sustainable local solutions to economic needs. This seminar course will examine topics such as capacity-building, asset-based strategies, social capital, poverty-alleviation, social enterprises and co-operatives, and comprehensive community initiatives, using international and local examples and case studies.
Theory and application of multivariate statistics, regression and correlation analysis, factor analysis, discriminant analysis and grouping analysis, with emphasis on the use of the computer. *eligible for MES.
Presentation of analytical and simulation models useful in analyzing geographic phenomena such as spatial interaction, spatial dependence, spatial equilibria and locational optimization; consideration is given to both theoretical and empirical components. *eligible for MES
The course provides an overview and hands-on application of the quantitative analytical methods regularly used by professionals in economic development and related fields. Emerging analytical tools and techniques are explored.
A seminar on selected topics of particular relevance to understanding and planning for contemporary processes of metropolitan change in Canada. Major topics represent an interrelated set of exogenous forces, (globalization, economic restructuring, technological innovation and immigration and demographic shift), and endogenous structural responses, (central city decline, revitalization, dispersed styles of suburban development and new urbanist and ecologically sustainable styles of planned intervention).
PLAN 622Contemporary Urban Planning and Governance
The distinct circumstances of the central business district, the inner city, the inner suburb and the outer suburb are explored in the context of political and economic factors that influence urban planning processes and outcomes. Urban governance, land market dynamics, and urban planning instruments are discussed.
An advanced examination of planners in their environment considering the relationship between social and land use planning. The course will examine a set of social concepts which may include: safety, gentrification, neighbourhood revitalization, social mix, community, displacement, participation, social capital, social sustainability, accessibility, public space, urban sprawl and social cohesion.
PLAN 625Methods of Social Investigation for Planners
Selected research approaches and methods used in planning research and practice including, for example, survey research, field research, participatory research; methods using existing data; needs assessment research. The purposes of social inquiry, the development of theories, the use of research in policy-making, and the ethical issues associated with social research provide the context for discussing the details of research methods. A course for those with some research skills and wishing to pursue planning-related methods.
Climate change has complex implications for communities across Canada and Planners are at the forefront of developing and implementing strategies to both reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and build resilience to current and future climate. This course focuses on some of the opportunities and challenges associated with the integration of climate change into urban and rural planning, including climate vulnerability of urban systems, low-carbon transport systems, urban greening and green infrastructure for climate resilience, regenerative designs that reduce social vulnerability, the role of information and communication technologies for system efficiency and resilience, and assessing synergies and conflicts between mitigation and adaptation. Leading policy and design cases from communities across Canada and internationally will be examined.
A seminar in Planning Law using the case study approach. Although the emphasis is primarily on the law in Ontario, reference is made to planning law in other provinces for purposes of comparison. Planning issues dealt with by the Ontario Municipal Board are used to illustrate the power to regulate the use of land, the law relating to citizen participation, problems of non-conforming uses, and the maintenance of environmental quality in neighbourhoods and communities. Some general familiarity with law is desirable, but not essential. Estimated additional cost to student: $40.00
This course examines the relationship between the environment (built/physical, economic, social, political and natural aspects) and population health. It focuses on conceptual and empirical links among current environment-health issues such as air quality, active transportation, injury prevention, climate change, and mental well-being. Emphasis is placed on the role of urban planners in collaboration with allied professionals (e.g., public health, engineering, law enforcement, architecture) in creating and maintaining healthy built environments to improve population health with a focus on key health issues. The importance of multi-sectoral collaboration, healthy public policy and effective tools for assessing healthy communities will be illustrated using case studies. *eligible for MES.
The role of cultural heritage in the community context is examined. Varying forms of heritage preservation, its function and organization are covered. This course may include a field component. (If a field trip occurs, the cost will not exceed $25.)
A design studio that focuses on design planning for individual sites and small scale developments. Projects integrate critical features: terrain, natural and cultural context, microclimate, infrastructure, and adjacent land uses. Studio seminars, consultation and critiques explore theory and practice in observation, awareness, comprehension, and idea development. (Note: Studio fee of $15 may be charged.)
A design studio on planning design at the community scale that is sensitive to the natural, built, and cultural context. Field study projects of area development or redevelopment projects are used to examine traditional and contemporary theory and practice. Studio seminars, presentations and critiques explore the definition, management and mapping of physical structures, visual and environmental resources. Included is consideration of the special problems of planning development within a scenic landscape. (Note: Studio fee: $15 may be charged. If a field trip occurs, the cost will not exceed $50. Estimated supply and printing cost will not exceed $150.)
An exploration of traditional and contemporary theories of urban design and their application in a variety of contexts. This involves study of approaches that lead to improved quality of life within a robust and sustainable urban environment. Topic includes the special, environmental, social, cultural and economic aspects of urban design. Precedents and trends will be analyzed. International viewpoints and case studies are considered. (Note: Estimated material cost to student will not exceed $75.)
This seminar course provides an introduction to methods of analyzing current environmental policy problems. Students will learn a step-by-step process of prescriptive activities used to aid decision making about natural resources. If held in conjunction with Plan 452, the graduate student requirement will be equivalent to the stand-alone graduate course.
PLAN 654Spatial Information Technology, Globalization and International Development
This course considers the role of GIS and RS technologies for problem solving and planning decision support in developing countries. Topics covered include the globalisation of information technology and its transfer from developed to developing countries and general aspects of the spatial information technology industry and its relationship to society. *eligible for MES.
PLAN 657GIS and Spatial Decision Support for Planning and Resource Management
This course introduces students to key theories, concepts and techniques that have been developed recently to improve the design support capabilities of spatial information systems. Topics covered include participatory GIS, group-based spatial decision support systems, and the integration of multi-criteria analysis (MCA) methods with GIS to facilitate decision-making in planning. *eligible for MES
PLAN 661AApplied Studies in Hydrology and the Environment 1
This applied hydrology course involves defining, designing and conducting research on the hydrology and/or water quality of a specific environmental setting. Drawing on strengths and interests of students, the field and laboratory activities in this course typically involve collection, analysis and reporting of primary data. The Fall-term (661A) focuses on literature review, problem definition, methodological design and data collection; the Winter-term (661B) includes analysis, interpretation and write-up suitable for publication in a refereed journal. Group work is typically involved. *eligible for MES
PLAN 665Environmental Planning Theory and Practice
An interdisciplinary approach to environmental planning. Focuses on the socio-economic, planning, environmental science, design, and decision-making theories and methods utilized in environmental planning theory and practice. Regional and local case studies and studio projects will be used to demonstrate professional practice issues and techniques. Recommended: A senior level course in ecology, environmental science, landscape architecture or equivalent. *eligible for MES.
An ecological approach to planning national and provincial parks, focusing on system planning, master planning and park administration. Examination of the theory and practice of parks planning, utilizing ecological concepts. Recommended: a senior undergrad or graduate ecology course. Estimated additional field trip cost to student: $30.00 *eligible for MES
These courses allow for additions to the program on a short-term basis, and for development of future permanent courses. Eligible for MES (subject to approval of the School of Planning Graduate Officer).
PLAN 675Special Readings on Selected Planning Topics
Study topic to be defined on an individual basis with a faculty member to cover materials not otherwise available in a graduate course offered in this or near-by universities. A specific outline for the course of study is developed in consultation with the professor in charge and is subject to School approval by the Associate Director (Graduate Studies), within 3 weeks of the beginning of term. *eligible for MES (subject to approval of the School of Planning Graduate Officer)
This course critically explores the evolution of freight planning and policy in the urban and regional realms from the early importance of ports to modern global logistics. Emphasis is placed on understanding 1) the theory, fundamental characteristics, and methods of analyzing freight systems and 2) planning/policy perspectives on freight transportation.
PLAN 678Advances in Public Transportation Planning, Operations & Control
The historical evolution of transit in cities; the technological innovations which made transit possible; and transit mode definitions. Models of transit vehicle motion are presented; transit travel times under different travel regimes are derived. Transit scheduling methods are shown. System operational characteristics are defined and quantitative measures of effectiveness are introduced. Transit network planning objectives are identified; actual geometries are qualitatively and quantitatively analyzed. Transit ownership structures and economics are discussed; contemporary ITS applications are presented. Methods for selecting appropriate transit modes are covered.*eligible for MES
Plan 684 introduces students to the planning of physical infrastructure. The course covers governments' roles in regulating, financing and maintaining public infrastructure such as transportation or water systems. The impacts of infrastructure provision on land use, the environment, economic development and social equity are also addressed. Quantitative methods of predicting infrastructure demand and utilization are presented. The role of private sector in providing and maintaining infrastructure is discussed. *eligible for MES
PLAN 685Urban Planning and Development in Transitional China
This course offers a critical understanding of China's urban planning and development in the context of the country's economic reform and globalization. It engages with the on-going social, economic, environmental, and spatial challenges facing transitional urban China. The course exposes students to diverse and essential issues such as urban form, urban system, rural-urban migration, urban land and housing development, economic transformation, spatial restructuring, urban governance, citizenship and rights, urban sprawl and expansion and environmental sustainability.
PLAN 686Aggregate Resources Planning, Development and Management
This course introduces students to a variety of topics associated with aggregate resources (sand, gravel and stone), important but contentious issues in planning and resource management in Ontario and elsewhere. Products produced by pits and quarries are critical to infrastructure and urban development, but are subject to a number of land use/environmental issues and potential conflicts. Students will be exposed to a range of topics related to aggregate resources - relevant legislation, geology, economics, Site Plans, technical requirements for licensing, technical/peer reviews, resources management, cumulative effects, water resources, pit and quarry rehabilitation and after-use strategies, and significant Tribunal decisions. Emphasis will be placed on practical applications and "real world" issues.
Historical background and development of planning including cultural, philosophical and disciplinary roots; planning theory and its applications in urban, regional, service and environmental areas.
The fundamentals of municipal land use planning are introduced in this course. Important planning and financial instruments, administrative processes and planning practice issues are reviewed. Participants will learn about relevant legislation (e.g. Planning and Municipal Acts), policy plans (e.g. official plans, secondary plans, subdivision plans) and plan implementation tools (e.g. zoning bylaws, site plans, easements, consents and variances). Municipal budgets and accounting concepts, and financing strategies (e.g. assessments, mill rates, capital works, and debentures) are studied.
PLAN 702Critical Assessment of Theories, Methods and Practices of Planning
Through a series of case studies students will engage in critically reflecting upon the theories, methods and procedures applicable in the professional practice of planning.
Professional practice responsibilities and ethics, administration methods, financing, and organization are considered in the context of the nature of organizations, politics and economics.
This course is a graduate level introduction into the analytical methods employed in planning research and practice. The broad spectrum of tools, approaches and techniques drawn from quantitative and qualitative traditions will be reviewed. Commonly employed examples will form the basis for developing applied problem solving skills. Operational considerations, critical assessment, and analytical communication provide the important review context.
The foundation of this course is the intersection of the strong relation between urban design as the shaping of urban space and urban planning as the strategic and regulatory mediation of urban change. Establishing the basis of this relationship, the course critically explores contemporary issues in urban design and their implications for urban futures, planning, the environment, and the public realm. Case studies drawn from around the globe are featured.
The nature and implications of key forces of change, trends and current issues are identified in the context of urban and regional planning practice. Case studies, drawn from Canadian and international experiences and challenges, will frame the exploration of evolving, contemporary issues.
This studio course introduces students to the process of collaborative problem solving central in Planning practice. Students work in teams, led by faculty facilitators, in applying theory and knowledge from Planning and related disciplines to problems drawn from the local community planning context. The emphasis is on the development of student skills including design, plan making, teamwork, creativity, negotiation, management, and policy application and creation. Problem based learning, reflection on process and communications are central in this course.
This student centered studio course involves partnering with a local community, providing student led groups on opportunity to emulate professional practice under the guidance of an assigned faculty member. Skills and knowledge developed in the introductory studio course are enhanced and important community engagement skills are emphasized in the chosen project. Reflective learning is central as students are expected to assess the process, the outcome, and the interrelationship between them. Community presentation of the problem solution is required.
Planning Graduate Students only; prerequisite PLAN 720
A discussion forum to bring together PhD students in planning. An opportunity for students to learn about the breadth of research conducted in planning and to receive feedback from others on their own progress. Seminars consist of rotating student presentations on their current research, including but not limited to comprehensive exam, research proposal, on-going thesis work, conference presentations, and/or professional development.
A discussion forum to bring together PhD students in planning. An opportunity for students to learn about the breadth of research conducted in planning and to receive feedback from others on their own progress. Seminars consist of rotating student presentations on their current research, including but not limited to comprehensive exam, research proposal, on-going thesis work, conference presentations, and/or professional development.
A discussion forum to bring together PhD students in planning. An opportunity for students to learn about the breadth of research conducted in planning and to receive feedback from others on their own progress. Seminars consist of rotating student presentations on their current research, including but not limited to comprehensive exam, research proposal, on-going thesis work, conference presentations, and/or professional development.
A discussion forum to bring together PhD students in planning. An opportunity for students to learn about the breadth of research conducted in planning and to receive feedback from others on their own progress. Seminars consist of rotating student presentations on their current research, including but not limited to comprehensive exam, research proposal, on-going thesis work, conference presentations, and/or professional development.
Introductory examination of Planning as a discipline, scholarly endeavor and professional field. Students will learn about and evaluate the evolution of planning scholarship, planning practice and their integration in diverse contexts. Professional development topics will include journal writing and review, grant applications, consulting, professional writing, professional ethics, and knowledge mobilization.
An advanced examination of planning theory. This course offers students an in-depth look at canonical works and recent developments in planning theory and their connections to practice. Students will also consider the influence of various strands of social theory and philosophy of science on planning thought. Underlying epistemologies and ontologies will be discussed.
A critical examination of research design in planning. This course explores different research paradigms and systems of inquiry and their application to planning. Emphasis will be placed on the connections between ontology, epistemology and methodology that inform research design and selection of methods. The principles for assessing research quality and methodological rigour are discussed.