Program Overview

Introduction to the Bachelor of Design in City Innovation

The Bachelor of Design in City Innovation (BDCI) degree is designed to equip students with the tools and skills necessary to create positive change in the built environment and address complex issues affecting cities. This program provides a design-based framework for thinking about the world, its challenges, and creating inclusive and sustainable city-focused solutions.

Program Overview

The BDCI degree is a four-year, 120-unit program consisting of common core courses and electives, with the option to complete a concentration, a minor, and/or a certificate. The program allows students to craft an individualized learning experience through design in city innovation (DCI) electives and work-integrated learning courses.

Concentrations

• Students can apply to an architecture or landscape architecture concentration.
• If they are interested in becoming a planner, they can choose specific electives that will prepare them for the unique scope of the field.

Additional Certification

• Students have the option to complete a Minor Program relevant to city building careers of their choice and/or complete an Embedded Certificate.

Professional Experience

• Work-integrated learning course and capstone project course related to the student's area of interest.

Career Paths

As a graduate of the BDCI program, students will be prepared for a variety of career and further academic options. Students can pursue the following pathways, depending on their interests:

• Licensed Architect or Landscape Architect: Apply to one of two concentrations as preparation for professional graduate degree programs in architecture or landscape architecture that lead to licensure.
• Licensed Planner: Complete a customized program of study that focuses in area of professional interest as preparation for a graduate planning degree program that leads to licensure.
• City Innovation Careers: Create a customized program of study as preparation for entry to a city-building related professional or graduate program, including law, social work, public policy, public health, business, and data science; or direct entry into a city-building related career in the private, public, or non-profit sectors.

Admissions Requirements

The admissions requirements for the BDCI program include:

• Meeting the general admission requirements of the University of Calgary.
• Completing specific high school courses or their equivalents.
• Achieving a competitive admission average.

Speak with a Recruiter

For questions about the admission requirements, please contact the recruiter for your geographical area.

Research Areas

The School of Architecture, Planning and Landscape (SAPL) offers a range of research areas, including:

• City Building Design Lab (CBDLab)
• Groups and Labs
• Projects

About SAPL

SAPL offers a range of studies that broaden how students see and think about the world around them – from objects and buildings to cities and regions.

Faculty

The faculty at SAPL are dedicated to providing students with a comprehensive education in city innovation.

Student Experience

The student experience at SAPL is designed to provide students with a well-rounded education and prepare them for careers in city innovation.

Related Programs

For students interested in shaping the cities of the future or seeking similar programs, consider:

• Minor in Architectural Studies

Fees and Financials

The tuition fees for the BDCI program can be found on the University of Calgary's website. Students can also find information on scholarships, awards, and financial aid.

Conclusion

The Bachelor of Design in City Innovation program at the University of Calgary is a unique and innovative program that provides students with the skills and knowledge necessary to create positive change in the built environment and address complex issues affecting cities. With its focus on design-based thinking, individualized learning experiences, and work-integrated learning, this program is ideal for students who want to pursue careers in city innovation and make a meaningful impact on the world.