Program Overview

Master of Digital Urban Management

The Master of Digital Urban Management (MoDUM) is a one-year full-time programme co-organised by the Urban Systems Institute and Department of Urban Planning and Design in the University of Hong Kong. The programme is proposed in response to the increasing utilization of digital technologies and data-driven approaches in urban management, governance and planning, coupled with the growing societal demand for sustainable urban development.

Programme Overview

Cities are embracing disruptive technologies to tackle intricate urban issues. This will likely shift power and resources in urban management. The evolution often pushes cities towards rapid digital transformations. The integration of digital and smart technologies in urban management holds immense potential to revolutionize governance and boost competitiveness. If managed well, these transformations could yield significant societal benefits and help address pressing global issues such as climate change. MoDUM is hence designed to train students with knowledge and skills to navigate the evolving landscape of urban management in the digital era.

Key Areas of Focus

The programme will concentrate on three key areas:

• Digital Technologies and Smart Cities: The programme will introduce how the digital technologies and tools are utilized in urban management, including urban sensing technologies, Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), Digital Twins, etc.
• Policy and Governance in the Digital Era: The programme will examine the role of digital technologies in shaping urban policies, governance structures, and regulations.
• Urban Sustainable Development: The programme emphasizes sustainable development, and environmental and equity considerations in the digital urban management.

Programme Objectives

MoDUM encourages interdisciplinary collaboration for innovative problem-solving, offers hands-on experience with digital tools, and fosters a culture of research and innovation in Digital Urban Management. It also prepares graduates for careers in sectors where digital technology and data-driven decision-making skills are in demand.

Programme Structure

The programme provides students with exposure to state-of-the-art urban technologies, including but not limited to urban sensing, digital twin, sustainable technology, financial technology, gerontechnology and spatial computing, along with their applications and implications for contemporary cities.

Career Prospects

Graduates of the MoDUM programme will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to pursue careers in various sectors, including urban planning, management, and development, where digital technologies and data-driven decision-making are increasingly important.