National University of Singapore

Through interrogating theories, strategies and trajectories of development in diverse contexts, the course examines the geography of the global political economy as it relates to development issues and the attendant cultural and political geographies of development.

Images are as important as ideas in defining and transmitting cultural patterns, and neither can be understood without exploring the other. This course looks into the core of Japanese culture to understand the ideas that have been used to define Japanese culture and the connections these ideas have with images. Topics include Japanese aesthetic ideals, ethical paradigms, festivals, and visual arts. 

This course provides an introduction to the basic ideas and context of both urban and regional planning. Key planning systems, policy agendas and perspectives are critically assessed. Examples are drawn mainly from rapidly changing regions in Asia. Challenges addressed include infrastructure, land policy, housing, poverty, governance dilemmas and environmental problems. Planning in regions and cities is viewed in light of wider social, political and economic trends as well as the geographical context. Planning is placed into perspective relative to other forces that influence development patterns.

This introduction to Earth Systems Science examines the key interactions between the different spheres of planet Earth: the lithosphere, atmosphere, hydrosphere, biosphere and the anthroposphere. In particular, students develop an understanding of the holistic view and thinking about interconnections and interrelationships in the earth’s systems and subsystems. This course highlights key concepts shaping Earth Systems Science, such as sustainability, planetary boundaries and safe operating spaces.

This course introduces the field of history, focusing on East, Southeast, and South Asia. Topics covered include Asia's interaction with the West, the various forms of nationalism, and the impact of globalization.