Urban and Regional Economic Development (MSc)

Overview

The MSc Urban and Regional Economic Development programme is designed for those who want to understand more about urban and regional economic development theory and practice. This programme will equip students with the knowledge, skills, and critical thinking to meet the challenge of developing competitive, smart, sustainable, and inclusive economies.

Duration and Mode

• Duration: 2 years (part-time), 1 year (full-time)
• Mode: Part-time, Full-time

Course Structure

The programme is divided into two parts:

1. Part one: A teaching programme of core and optional modules.
2. Part two: An individual dissertation on a topic of the student's choice, selected in consultation with members of staff.

Admissions Criteria

To be considered for an offer, applicants must meet all of the entry requirements, including:

• A 2:2 honours degree in a relevant subject area.
• A copy of the degree certificate and transcripts.
• A copy of the IELTS certificate with an overall score of 6.5 with 5.5 in all subskills, or evidence of an accepted equivalent.

Course Details

Why Study This Course

This MSc provides the opportunity to understand socio-economic change in different towns, cities, regions, and city-regions globally. It is professionally accredited by the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) as a 'specialist' master's degree.

Accreditations

• Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI)

School

The programme is based in the School of Geography and Planning, which explores and tackles the social, political, economic, development, and environmental challenges affecting where and how we live.

Learning and Assessment

Teaching Methods

An array of teaching and learning styles are used, including lectures, seminars, discussions, and workshop activities.

Assessment Methods

A variety of summative assessment methods are used, including formal reports, written assignments, projects, case studies, student-led presentations, and reviews of current research. All assessment is done by coursework.

Support

Students are allocated a personal tutor at the start of the course and have access to a dedicated PC laboratory, GIS facilities, and an excellent library.

Tuition Fees

Fees for 2026 Entry

• Home status: £5,725 per year (part-time), £11,450 per year (full-time)
• Overseas status: £12,975 per year (part-time), £25,950 per year (full-time)

Funding

Financial support may be available to individuals who meet certain criteria, including Master's Scholarships and Postgraduate loans.

Career Prospects

The course offers the knowledge and expertise to enable students to work within a large number of urban and regional development-related careers, including research, policy development, planning roles, and agencies involved in new and re-development projects.

Additional Costs

Students should also consider living costs, as the university is based in one of the UK's most affordable cities.

Cardiff University

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Overview:

Cardiff University is a leading research-intensive university located in the heart of Cardiff, the capital city of Wales. It is known for its strong academic reputation, diverse range of programs, and commitment to community engagement.

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Services Offered:

Study:

Cardiff University offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and international programs across various subject areas. They also provide support services for students, including funding, tuition fee information, and career guidance.

Research:

The university is renowned for its research excellence, with a focus on tackling major challenges facing society, the economy, and the environment. They offer various research facilities and support for researchers.

Work with us:

Cardiff University collaborates with businesses and organizations to provide consultancy services, funded opportunities, and workforce development programs.

Community:

The university is deeply committed to its local communities, offering various projects, resources, and events to support learning, promote Welsh language and culture, and contribute to the green recovery.

Global:

Cardiff University has strong global partnerships with universities and organizations worldwide, fostering international research collaborations and student exchange programs.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

Living in Cardiff:

Cardiff is a vibrant city with a thriving student population, offering a diverse range of cultural experiences, entertainment options, and social activities.

Welsh Language and Culture:

Students have opportunities to learn Welsh and experience the rich Welsh language culture, which is prevalent in Cardiff.

Campus Facilities:

The university provides excellent campus facilities, including libraries, sports facilities, and conference spaces.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

World-class Campus Facilities:

Cardiff University offers modern and well-equipped facilities to support student learning and research.

Excellent Career Prospects:

The university has a strong track record of producing graduates who are highly sought after by employers.

Vibrant Student Life:

Cardiff is a lively city with a thriving student community, offering a diverse range of social and cultural experiences.

Research Excellence:

Cardiff University is renowned for its research excellence, providing students with opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research.

Community Engagement:

The university is deeply committed to its local communities, offering students opportunities to contribute to social and environmental initiatives.

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Academic Programs:

Undergraduate:

Cardiff University offers a wide range of undergraduate programs across various subject areas, including Arts, Humanities, Social Sciences, Science, Engineering, and Medicine.

Postgraduate:

The university provides a diverse range of postgraduate programs, including taught courses and research degrees.

International:

Cardiff University welcomes international students and offers specific programs and support services tailored to their needs.

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Other:

Rankings:

Cardiff University consistently ranks highly in national and international rankings, reflecting its academic excellence.

Quality Marks:

The university holds various quality marks, including the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) diamond logo, demonstrating its commitment to quality assurance.

Russell Group:

Cardiff University is a member of the Russell Group, a prestigious group of 24 leading research-intensive universities in the UK.