Urban Design and City Planning MSc

University College London (UCL)London, United Kingdom

Tuition Fee

GBP 39,200

Start Date

Not Available

Study Mode

On campus

Duration

1 years

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Program Details

Degree
Masters
Major
Urban Planning
Area of study
Natural Science | Architecture and Construction
Timing
Full time
Course Language
English

Program Overview

Introduction to the Urban Design and City Planning MSc

The Urban Design and City Planning MSc at University College London (UCL) is designed to equip students with a multidisciplinary skill set crucial for careers in urban design, city planning, and related fields. This program combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience, preparing students for roles in urban planning and design.


Program Overview

The course focuses on urban design as a creative planning tool, integrating urban design, city planning, place-making, real estate, and sustainability. It highlights planning as a positive force and urban design's role in promoting economic, social, and environmental well-being.


Key Components of the Program

  • Engage with critical debates in urban design and its context in city planning.
  • Learn about the challenges facing city planners at a time of mass urbanization, globalization, technological, and climate change.
  • Develop the knowledge and skills needed to design and deliver planning proposals involving active community engagement.
  • Examine the social, cultural, economic, and environmental aspects necessary for creating sustainable future cities.
  • Engage in current debates on making cities more inclusive, resource-efficient, nature-integrated, and responsive to climate change challenges.

Entry Requirements

An upper second-class honors Bachelor's degree (or higher) from a UK university or an overseas qualification of equivalent standing is required. Where candidates fail to meet the standard requirement, the department will consider professional experience in planning or a related field when evaluating the application.


English Language Requirements

The English language level for this course is Level 2. UCL offers Pre-Master's and Pre-sessional English courses for international students aiming to study for a postgraduate degree at UCL.


Tuition Fees

  • UK students: Ł21,500 (full-time), Ł10,750 (part-time) for the 2026/27 academic year.
  • International students: Ł39,200 (full-time), Ł19,600 (part-time) for the 2026/27 academic year.

Program Structure

The program is available in full-time, part-time, and flexible (modular) study modes. Full-time students typically study the equivalent of a full-time job, with approximately 12 to 16 contact hours per week. The program includes a combination of lectures, seminars, fieldwork, and site visits, with assessments through individual and group project work, essays, written reports, and a dissertation or research by design project.


Modules

The course includes compulsory modules such as:


  • City Planning
  • Urban Design: Place Making
  • Community-engaged Planning Projects
  • Critical Debates in Urban Design
  • Sustainable Futures by Design
  • Urban Design Governance
  • Major Research Project
  • Design and Real Estate

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the Urban Design and City Planning MSc can pursue careers in urban design, planning, and development sectors in the UK, Europe, or globally. Employers of graduates include Arup, Aecom, Jacobs Engineering, Foster and Partners, and international governments, among others.


Accreditation

The program is accredited by the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) and the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), ensuring that graduates meet the professional standards required for careers in urban planning and design.


Conclusion

The Urban Design and City Planning MSc at UCL offers a comprehensive education in urban design and city planning, combining theoretical foundations with practical skills. With its strong industry connections, accreditation by professional bodies, and location in the heart of London, this program provides students with a unique opportunity to engage with the complexities of urban design and planning, preparing them for successful careers in this field.


About University

UCL is a top-ranked university with life-changing research and a_x000D_ progressive approach to academia, making it different from the rest. At UCL,_x000D_ postgraduate students learn by doing—shaping the world around them with a_x000D_ hands-on approach.

Services

Student services

  • UCL is committed to providing an inclusive learning and working environment where students and staff of all religions, and none, can thrive.

  • Their Student Support and Wellbeing team of expert wellbeing, disability and mental health staff provide a safe, confidential and non-judgmental space, in which you can discuss any issues that may be affecting your ability to study.
  • UCL's Student Centre houses a large prayer room and a small room for silent prayer and meditation.
  • UCL has schemes to help students who are facing financial difficulties The university provides support to international students, such as assistance with visas
  • A Personal Tutor is on hand to help you settle into UCL through practical guidance and support.

Housing services

UCL provides a range of accommodation for graduate students.  Our halls vary in size, facilities and history. Whatever stage you are at and whatever questions you have, the UCL Accommodation team is there to help and get you settled in quickly

Library services

You can access a number of library and information services to help you get the most out of your time with us. Your UCL user ID means that email, wifi, library and print facilities will be available to you whenever you need them.

The libraries are an invaluable resource, find out about the services they provide, when they are open and search the catalogue.

ICT services

Support is available from IT services 24 hours a day, ensuring that you have 24/7 cover for all IT queries.

IT Services is your point of contact for supported computer hardware, software, IT account or other IT related issues; including telephone, audio visual and printing queries.

Medical services

UCL’s partner GP surgery is located just a few streets from our main campus. Many students living in north and central London will fall within its catchment area and will be able to register with them. Registration involves a simple online form followed by an in-person appointment at the surgery. 

Student Life

Campus life

Sports facilities

UCL has numerous sports facilities in and around London, including full-size football, rugby and lacrosse pitches in Shenley in Hertfordshire, basketball, badminton and volleyball facilities just north of the Bloomsbury campus in Somers Town Sports Centre, and Bloomsbury Fitness: the UCL Students' Union health and fitness club.

Student clubs

Accreditation

UCL is regulated by the Office for Students

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Location