COURSE CURRICULUM

The RePIC program is structured over two years and focuses on post-industrial cities and urban transformation. In the first semester, all students attend Ruhr University Bochum (RUB) in Germany for a core curriculum delivered face-to-face. This curriculum provides foundational knowledge, combining facts, ideas, and connecting theories within a conceptual framework of the post-industrial city. Key modules include CityLab & Design Research Studio, Research Methods I covering quantitative, qualitative, and geospatial methods, RePIC Core Theory on society, space, and environment, and the Urban Sustainability Transformations Research Forum.In the second semester, students select one of four thematic specialisation tracks, each jointly delivered by two partner universities. Depending on the track, students may relocate to another university to deepen their expertise in a chosen area.The third semester emphasizes professional or research training, preparing students for careers in urban studies, policy, planning, or related research fields. The final, fourth semester is dedicated to the master dissertation, where students independently investigate a topic of their choice, integrating theoretical and practical knowledge gained throughout the program.Overall, the RePIC program offers an interdisciplinary and international approach, combining urban theory, design research, sustainability, and data-driven methods. It equips students with analytical, practical, and research skills to address the challenges and opportunities of superdiverse cities in transition. The combination of core courses, specialised tracks, professional training, and thesis work ensures a comprehensive preparation for careers in urban studies, planning, or academia.