Consideration of issues of research design in planning studies that seeks to integrate a range of relevant methodological issues into a foundation for major research investigations. The primary focus is on the substantive research project in the final year of the planning degree. The course considers fundamental epistemological questions about research paradigms, explores the realities of the research process, and covers practical topics such as writing and presentation. Students gain an understanding of the conceptual, methodological, and technical bases for the construction and delivery of research projects. Lectures, tutorials and assessments guide students toward a developed thesis proposal and plan of study.