Program Overview

Introduction to the Master of Urban Planning Programme

The Master of Urban Planning (MUP) programme at the National University of Singapore is uniquely positioned to leverage on the experiences of Singapore and cities in the region as laboratories of planning thought and practice. Urbanization in Asia is proceeding at a pace and scale that is unprecedented in history, with challenges such as climate change, the pervasiveness of info-communications technology, geopolitical instability, and increasing socio-economic inequality impinging on the ways cities are planned, built, and lived.

Programme Overview

The programme is a two-year, full-time, multidisciplinary programme. The curriculum is anchored by a set of core courses, electives, and planning studios. Students are also able to choose from a broad selection of electives and participate in overseas fieldtrips and internship attachments.

Key Emphases of the Programme

• Integration of Multi-Disciplinary Knowledge: The synergy between disciplines and stakeholders, during the design process, can result in more holistic outcomes.
• Focus on the Asian Context: Through the various taught courses, the programme keeps abreast of the latest global knowledge to develop innovative urban and regional planning solutions focused on the Asian context of rapidly urbanizing and high-density environments.
• Physical Planning Across Different Scales: The programme focuses on all aspects of physical planning that equip graduates with the necessary skills and knowledge to act as effective professionals in a rapidly urbanizing world.

Why Urban Planning

For the first time in history, more than half of the world’s population live in cities. Especially in Asia, the scale and speed of urban growth have affected many more lives than anywhere else in the world. With this comes immense wealth and opportunity, but also problems such as environmental degradation, congestion, crime, and poverty. The stakes of urban planning as a way to improve the lives of citizens are nowhere higher than in Asia.

Key Areas of Focus

• Densification: Asian cities are some of the densest human settlements on this planet. Planning for density requires a keen awareness of the physical structure of cities, the social conditions of living in compact environments, and the economics of urban development and land use.
• Technology: Planning in the new millennium will have to engage with the opportunities opened up by data science and analytics. Understanding how to use data judiciously and creatively can help planners grasp complex problems and make effective decisions.
• Sustainability: Sustainability is a multi-sectoral project that combines development with responsible use of resources across all facets of society. Planners are important agents as they shape urban development in ways that reduce waste and promote ecologically sensitive practices.
• Social Engagement: Planners have to learn to be sensitive to the needs and desires of those whom they claim to plan for. Engaging with communities requires planners to take on different roles as intermediaries, activists, and organizers.

Curriculum and Structure

The programme includes a set of core courses, electives, and planning studios, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of urban planning principles and practices. The curriculum is designed to equip graduates with the necessary skills and knowledge to act as urban planning professionals and policymakers in a rapidly urbanizing world.

The Asian Master of Urbanism Certificate Programme

This programme is part of the broader offerings, focusing on the unique challenges and opportunities of urbanization in Asia.

Concurrent Degree Programme (CDP) B.A (Arch) + MUP

This programme allows students to pursue both the Bachelor of Arts in Architecture and the Master of Urban Planning, providing a comprehensive education in both architecture and urban planning.

Admissions and Scholarships

Information on admissions criteria, scholarships, and other forms of support is available, highlighting the programme's commitment to attracting and supporting talented students from diverse backgrounds.

News and Events

The programme is actively involved in research, conferences, and community engagement, reflecting its commitment to being at the forefront of urban planning education and practice.

Conclusion

The Master of Urban Planning programme at the National University of Singapore offers a unique and comprehensive education in urban planning, with a focus on the Asian context and the challenges of rapid urbanization. The programme is designed to equip graduates with the knowledge, skills, and perspectives necessary to succeed as urban planning professionals and policymakers in a rapidly changing world.