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Students
Tuition Fee
Start Date
Medium of studying
Blended
Duration
18 months
Program Facts
Program Details
Degree
Courses
Major
Architecture | Town Planning | Urban Planning
Area of study
Architecture and Construction
Education type
Blended
Timing
Full time
Course Language
English
Intakes
Program start dateApplication deadline
2024-11-02-
About Program

Program Overview


This 18-month Master's program in Design for Development Architecture, Urban Planning, and Heritage focuses on inclusive and sustainable urban development in the Global South. Through a design-oriented approach, students learn to navigate the challenges of urbanization in emerging economies, drawing on architecture, planning, and heritage protection. The program includes a five-week design workshop and an internship in the Global South, providing practical experience and preparing graduates for careers in urban planning, design, and development consulting.

Program Outline


Design for Development Architecture, Urban Planning and Heritage in the Global South - Master's Program


Degree Overview:

This 18-month Master's program, offered by the Politecnico di Milano's Department of Architecture and Urban Studies (DAStU), focuses on inclusive and sustainable urban development in the Global South. It aims to equip professionals with the skills and knowledge to address the challenges of urbanization in these regions, particularly in countries with emerging economies. The program emphasizes a design-oriented approach, integrating architecture, planning, and heritage protection at various scales. It also incorporates practical experience through a five-week design workshop and an internship at an organization operating in the Global South.


Objectives:

The program aims to:

  • Train professionals with an international outlook capable of tackling the challenges of contemporary urban development.
  • Develop skills and expertise in navigating the complex contexts of the Global South.
  • Foster an understanding of the governability and quality of urban and regional development.
  • Equip graduates with the ability to develop effective strategies for defending and developing regions in environmental and social terms.
  • Prepare professionals/consultants in the area of development-related spatial issues for employment in the public, private, or third sector at the supranational, national, or local scale.

Outline:

The program is structured into six modules: It covers topics such as:

  • Globalisation and its impacts on cities and regions.
  • Socio-spatial imbalances and environmental emergencies.
  • Complex urban management problems.
  • Inclusive and sustainable urban development.
  • The United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, Goal 11.

Module B: Tools (6 ECTS)

This module introduces students to the tools and methodologies used in design for development. It covers topics such as:

  • Design thinking and participatory design.
  • Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and spatial analysis.
  • Sustainable design principles and practices.
  • Urban planning and design software.

Module C: Design Studios (12 ECTS)

This module provides students with hands-on experience in designing solutions for urban development challenges. It includes:

  • Design projects focused on specific urban contexts in the Global South.
  • Workshops and seminars led by experts in the field.
  • Critical analysis and evaluation of design proposals.

Module D: On the Ground Design Workshop (16 ECTS)

This five-week intensive workshop provides students with practical experience in a real-world setting. It includes:

  • Site visits and field research in a specific location in the Global South.
  • Collaborative design projects with local communities and stakeholders.
  • Development of design solutions that address local needs and priorities.

Module E: Internship/Project Work (14 ECTS)

This module provides students with the opportunity to gain practical experience in a professional setting. It includes:

  • A 300-hour internship at an organization operating in the Global South.
  • Development of a final project that integrates the knowledge and skills acquired throughout the program.

Assessment:

The program's assessment methods include:

  • Continuous evaluation of coursework and participation in workshops and seminars.
  • Mid-term and final exams for theoretical modules.
  • Presentation and critique of design projects.
  • Evaluation of the internship experience and final project.
  • Defense of the final thesis.

Teaching:

The program is taught by a team of DAStU faculty and researchers specializing in architecture, urban planning, and heritage protection. It also features guest lectures and workshops by renowned experts from other universities, research centers, multilateral organizations, and national and international NGOs operating in the Global South. The program emphasizes a learning-by-doing approach, integrating theory and practical application.


Careers:

Graduates of the program are well-prepared for careers in:

  • Urban planning and design.
  • Architecture and heritage conservation.
  • Development consulting.
  • Non-profit organizations working in the Global South.
  • International organizations and agencies.

Other:

The program is open to candidates with a Laurea Specialistica/Magistrale (equivalent to Master of Science) in Architecture, Engineering, Urban Planning, Design, or other related scientific disciplines. Equivalent foreign qualifications will be considered valid. The program is taught in English.

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About University
PhD
Masters
Bachelors
Diploma
Courses

Politecnico di Milano


Overview:

Politecnico di Milano is Italy's largest science-technology university, established in 1863. It is known for its scientific rigor and creativity, focusing on technology for humanity.


Services Offered:

Politecnico di Milano offers a wide range of services to its students, including:

    Student accommodation:

    The university provides various housing options for students.

    Canteens and cafes:

    Students have access to dining facilities on campus.

    Libraries and archives:

    The university boasts extensive library resources and archives.

    Spaces and study areas:

    Students can find dedicated spaces for studying on campus.

    Stores and print centres:

    The university provides convenient access to essential supplies and printing services.

    ICT Services:

    Students have access to IT infrastructure and support.

    Prevention and Protection Service:

    The university offers safety and security services.

    International Mobility:

    The university encourages and supports international exchange programs.

    Equal opportunities and inclusion:

    The university promotes inclusivity and equal opportunities for all students.

    Psychological wellbeing:

    The university provides support services for student mental health.

    Sport and leisure:

    Students can participate in various sports and leisure activities.

    Conventions and benefits:

    The university offers discounts and benefits through partnerships.

    Work and collaborations:

    The university facilitates opportunities for students to gain work experience and collaborate with companies.

Student Life and Campus Experience:

The university offers a vibrant campus experience with various opportunities for students to engage in academic, social, and extracurricular activities. Students can benefit from:

    Multiple campuses:

    The university has campuses in Milan, Cremona, Lecco, Mantova, Piacenza, and Xi'an, providing diverse learning environments.

    International environment:

    The university fosters a global community with international students and faculty.

    Student associations:

    Students can join various associations and clubs based on their interests.

    Events and activities:

    The university organizes numerous events, conferences, and workshops throughout the year.

Key Reasons to Study There:

    Strong academic reputation:

    Politecnico di Milano is highly ranked in international rankings, known for its excellence in science and technology.

    Innovative teaching modules:

    The university offers a wide range of innovative and multidisciplinary programs.

    Research excellence:

    The university is a leading research institution with a strong focus on Artificial Intelligence.

    Career opportunities:

    The university provides excellent career support and connections with industry partners.

    Sustainable development focus:

    The university is committed to sustainability and social responsibility.

Academic Programs:

Politecnico di Milano offers a comprehensive range of academic programs, including:

    Laurea programmes:

    Bachelor's degree programs.

    Laurea magistrale programmes:

    Master's degree programs.

    High-level training courses:

    Specialized courses for professional development.

    Education beyond graduation:

    Programs for continued learning after graduation.

    PhD Programmes:

    Doctoral programs in various fields.

    Industrial PhD:

    Programs combining research with industrial experience.

Other:

    Politecnico di Milano has a strong focus on Artificial Intelligence, with a dedicated research center, Polimi AI.

    The university has a long history of contributing to the development of Italy and the world.

    Politecnico di Milano is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion.

    The university offers a variety of resources for students, faculty, staff, and companies.

Total programs
174
Average ranking globally
#225
Average ranking in the country
#8
Admission Requirements

Entry Requirements:

The 2nd level Specializing Master's course is reserved for candidates with Laurea Specialistica/Magistrale (equivalent to Master of Science) in Architecture, Engineering, Urban Planning, Design or other related scientific disciplines. Equivalent foreign qualifications in their respective University Systems will be considered valid.

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