What This Document Is
This is a comprehensive course information guide for UPP 501: Urban Space, Place and Institutions, offered at the University of Illinois at Chicago. It serves as a foundational resource outlining the structure, expectations, and key themes explored within this core course for Master of Urban Planning and Policy (MUPP) students. It details the course’s approach to understanding the complexities of urban environments and the roles planners play within them.
Why This Document Matters
This guide is essential for anyone enrolled in or considering UPP 501. It’s particularly valuable at the beginning of the semester to understand the course’s objectives, required materials, and grading breakdown. Prospective students can use this to gauge the course’s focus and determine if it aligns with their academic interests. Current students will find it a crucial reference point throughout the term for assignment details and scheduling information.
Topics Covered
* Theories of Urban Space and Ecology
* Urban Economics and Metropolitan Development
* Globalization and its Impact on Cities
* The Role of Community in Urban Environments
* Perceptions and Experiences of Place
* Sustainability and Urban Design
* Property Rights and Land Use Regulation
* The Influence of Institutions on Urban Planning
* Smart Growth Strategies
* The Impact of Various Actors in Urban Development (government, citizens, etc.)
What This Document Provides
* A detailed weekly schedule of topics and associated readings.
* Information on required course materials, including textbooks and online resources.
* An overview of the grading components, including the weight of assignments and class participation.
* Descriptions of the types of assignments students will undertake, focusing on applying theoretical knowledge to real-world urban scenarios.
* Instructor contact information and office hour policies.
* A foundational understanding of the course’s core concepts and learning objectives.