Program Overview

Introduction to the Master's Program in Urban Design

The Master's program in Urban Design at the University of Montreal's School of Architecture offers advanced training in the analysis, responsible, and creative design of contemporary cities and their territories. This program is designed for individuals who have completed a degree in a related field, such as architecture, urban planning, or a related discipline.

Program Overview

The Master's program in Urban Design is a 2-year program that consists of 45 credits. The program is jointly managed by the School of Architecture and the School of Urbanism and Landscape Architecture, and it draws on the expertise of faculty members from both schools.

Objectives

The program has two main objectives:

• To address issues at multiple scales and encourage sustainable urban projects, collaboration, and multidisciplinarity through project-based learning.
• To strengthen design skills while providing a stimulating intellectual framework that includes environmental studies, social sciences, historical and theoretical knowledge of urban design, regulatory approaches, and economic aspects.

Program Structure

The program consists of a combination of coursework and research. Students will have the opportunity to work on real-world projects and collaborate with professionals and stakeholders from the municipal scene.

Faculty and Research

The program is led by a team of experienced faculty members, including:

• Alice Covatta, Professor at the School of Architecture and Director of the Urban Design program.
• Shin Koseki, Holder of the UNESCO Chair in Urban Landscape.
• Juan Torres, Professor at the School of Urbanism and Landscape Architecture.

Career Prospects

Graduates of the Master's program in Urban Design will have a wide range of career opportunities, including:

• Working as urban designers in private practices, municipalities, or government agencies.
• Collaborating with professionals and stakeholders to design and implement urban projects.
• Playing a central role in the development and reconstruction of cities, from the perspective of urban form and the coordination of private and public projects.

Principal Employers

Graduates may find employment with:

• Architectural, urban planning, and landscape architecture firms.
• Municipalities.
• Provincial and federal governments.
• Specialized organizations in ecodesign.

Admission Requirements

To be eligible for the program, applicants must meet the admission requirements, which include:

• Holding a bachelor's degree in a related field.
• Submitting a portfolio of their work.
• Providing letters of recommendation.
• Demonstrating proficiency in French (for programs taught in French).

Tuition Fees and Financial Aid

The tuition fees for the program vary depending on the student's status (Quebec resident, non-Quebec resident, international student). Financial aid, including scholarships and research assistantships, may be available to qualified students.

Research Areas

The program focuses on various research areas, including:

• Sustainable urban development.
• Urban design and planning.
• Environmental studies.
• Social sciences and urbanism.
• Historical and theoretical knowledge of urban design.

Conclusion

The Master's program in Urban Design at the University of Montreal's School of Architecture offers a comprehensive education in urban design, preparing graduates for a wide range of career opportunities in the field. With its strong faculty, research focus, and emphasis on sustainability and multidisciplinarity, this program is an excellent choice for individuals looking to pursue a career in urban design.