Program Overview

Introduction to Sustainable Urbanism MSc

The Sustainable Urbanism MSc is a postgraduate degree that brings together urban sustainability theory, policy, and design to tackle the impact of rapid urbanization on the environment and society. This urban planning master's degree is designed to teach students the multidisciplinary skills and knowledge required for a career in the built environment, focusing on urban sustainability or sustainable development.

Entry Requirements

Normally, a minimum of an upper second-class Bachelor's degree (or higher) from a UK university or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard is required. There is no particular subject requirement, as the MSc provides an 'initial' planning education for graduates with cognate or non-cognate degrees. Where candidates fail to meet the standard requirement, the department will take into account professional experience in planning or a related field when deciding whether to admit a candidate.

Course Overview

The Sustainable Urbanism MSc equips students with the knowledge and practical tools to shape sustainable futures for urban environments and communities around the world. This degree explores the complex challenges of urbanism today, bringing together sustainable urban development theory and practice to advance the sustainability of towns and cities. Students will gain an understanding of sustainable urbanism research themes, critically analyzing the latest thinking and debates in sustainable development.

Key Features of the Course

• The course is multidisciplinary, drawing on perspectives from urban planning, geography, ecology, urban design, and sociology to offer a holistic understanding of sustainability in urban environments.
• Through hands-on project work, students will gain a practical understanding of the delivery of sustainable urbanism, engaging with plans and designs.
• The course includes a residential field trip to explore sustainable urban development projects, with the cost of travel and accommodation covered by UCL.

Careers and Employability

There is a growing demand for master's graduates with specialist knowledge in sustainability from a wide range of public and private employers worldwide. Graduates from The Bartlett School of Planning are in employment or further study within 15 months of graduation, working in careers across local government, planning and urban design consultancies, urban regeneration and environmental agencies, and more.

Transferable Skills

Students will gain many transferable skills required to build a career tackling sustainability challenges in urban environments, including:

• Systems thinking
• Critical thinking
• Urban design skills
• Graphic skills
• Professional report writing
• Presentation skills
• Numerical skills related to sustainable urbanism

Teaching and Learning

At UCL's Bartlett School of Planning, teaching is through engaged and interactive learning, including lectures, seminars, tutorials, field trips, group project work, presentations, and individual assessments. Industry experts and external contributors provide significant input, enhancing the student experience.

Modules

The course is organized around three core themes: Sustainable Thinking, Sustainable Places, and Delivering Sustainability. Compulsory modules include:

• Urban Design: Place Making
• Critical Debates in Sustainable Urbanism
• Sustainable Urban Development: Key Themes
• Sustainable Urban Development: Project
• Sustainable Property: Valuation, Investment, Development
• Dissertation in Planning

Fees and Funding

Tuition fees for the Sustainable Urbanism MSc vary by study mode and student status. Additional costs include a fee deposit, travel and accommodation for the field trip (except for breakfast), and daily meals and personal expenses during the field trip.

Scholarships

The Bartlett Promise Scholarship aims to enable students from underrepresented backgrounds in the built environment to pursue master's studies. Other funding options are available, and students can find comprehensive information on the UCL Scholarships and Funding website.

Conclusion

The Sustainable Urbanism MSc at UCL is a comprehensive program designed for those looking to specialize in sustainability in urban environments. With its multidisciplinary approach, hands-on learning, and strong industry connections, this degree provides students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in their future careers and make a positive impact on urban sustainability worldwide.