Program Overview

Sustainable Urban Planning and Design MSc

The Sustainable Urban Planning and Design MSc programme is designed to critically analyse the challenges faced by urban areas in designing sustainable, inclusive, and healthy urban environments. This programme evaluates the effectiveness of various mitigation strategies and policies, with high-quality planning and design at its core.

Course Overview

The programme focuses on transforming cities to meet future needs, with students at the cutting edge of this transition towards a more sustainable and healthy planet. It combines a grounding in traditional planning competence with interdisciplinary perspectives to tackle sustainability challenges.

Course Structure

• The programme consists of core planning modules in Semester 1, with optional modules in Semester 2 to build wider understandings of urban challenges.
• A studio module operates across both semesters, and there is also a research-based dissertation project.
• Semester 1: Introduction to spatial planning and sustainable cities, with the first half of the studio module.
• Semester 2: Optional modules to deepen understanding of specific urban challenges.

Course Highlights

• Combining traditional planning competence with interdisciplinary perspectives to tackle sustainability challenges.
• A unique ‘Sustainable Places’ studio module building design skills and hands-on approaches.
• Opportunities to work with practitioners to explore planning theories in real-world contexts.

Ranking

• 17th in the UK (QS 2025).
• Top 100 in the World for Geography (QS World University Rankings 2025).

Delivery Format

• In person.
• Start date: September 2026.
• Duration: 1 year full-time; 2 years part-time.
• Award: Master of Science.

Entry Requirements

• A 2:1 or equivalent in geography, planning, architecture, urban studies, engineering, social sciences, or a cognate discipline.
• English language requirements: IELTS 6.0 with no less than 5.5 in any band, or equivalent qualifications.

Fees

• £11,250 (full-time).
• £5,625 (part-time).

Scholarships

• Postgraduate Masters loan available to all UK students.
• Birmingham Masters Scholarships award £3,000 to more than 300 students each year.

Application Process

• Application deadline for UK and non-visa requiring applicants: 28 August 2026.
• Applications are closed once the programme is full; early applications are encouraged.

Career Opportunities

• Graduates pursue careers in planning practice, urban design, real estate, construction, and allied professions.
• The programme is valued by employers in wider fields such as consultancy, policymaking, business, and industry.

Related Courses

• Urban and Regional Planning MSc / PGDip.

Student Experience

• The University of Birmingham offers a variety of accommodation options, exciting activities, and support services.
• Campus life includes a green and spacious environment with historic and modern spaces and state-of-the-art facilities.