The course aims to develop skills and knowledge in quantitative and qualitative spatial methods and analyses. The first part of the course introduces central concepts within philosophy of science and relates these to the subject of human geography. The following part of the course provides knowledge in quantitative geographical methods and analyses. The course includes regression analysis with a spatial perspective, data management of geographical information, as well as visualization and analysis of spatial and regional data in GIS. The last part of the course provides knowledge in qualitative methods. Based on current human geography research different qualitative method traditions are treated, and the different stages of the qualitatively oriented research process, and special attention are paid to applications in sustainability work.
Module 1: Philosophy of Science, 3 credits The module provides basic knowledge in philosophy of science and scientific work. Central concepts within philosophy of science are treated and related to the subject human geography. Historical scientific paradigms and different methodological traditions are discussed. Special attention is paid to the subject's tradition of mixed methods, where quantitative and qualitative methods are used together in human geographical research.
Module 2: Quantitative spatial analyses, 6 credits The module deals with quantitative geographical methods and analyses relevant to investigations linked to spatial planning and tourism. During the module, regression analysis is treated with a spatial perspective. The spatial analytical perspective also includes data management of geographical information, as well as visualization and analysis of spatial and regional data in GIS. Both descriptive and analytical approaches are treated during the module.
Module 3: Qualitative spatial analyses, 6 credits The module provides knowledge of qualitative methods in geographical research and applied spatial planning. Based on current human geographical research, various qualitative method traditions are treated, where special attention is paid to applications in sustainability work. The module deals with the qualitative focus of the research process from research design, collection of materials to analysis and writing. Particular focus is on data collection methods (including sampling) and conducting an interview study is included in the module.
Are you interested in what students think about the course? If you send an email to Fredrik Gärling, you can receive the latest course evaluation.
Application and eligibility
Spatial Analysis, 15 credits
Autumn Term 2025
Starts
3 November 2025
Ends
18 January 2026
Study location
Umeå
Language
English
Type of studies
Daytime,
100%
Required Knowledge
Univ: 120 higher education credits, of which at least 60 higher education credits in one main area. In addition, English B / 6 is required from the upper secondary school.
Academic credits
Applicants in some programs at Umeå University have guaranteed admission to this course. The number of places for a single course may therefore be limited.
Application code
UMU-F2907
Application
Online applications are now open. You will be transferred to Universityadmissions.se.
Application deadline is
15 January 2025. How to apply
As a citizen of a country outside the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland, you are required to pay application and tuition fees for studies at Umeå University.
