Urban Design and Planning

The Urban Design and Planning program focuses on policy development, implementation, and good practice in fields such as development planning, development management, urban design policy and practice, equality and diversity, and sustainable resource management. A key emphasis is on shaping emerging research and policy agendas, linking with interdisciplinary partners from academia and practice, to provide relevant analyses and skill development and support, which provide integrated solutions to policy and practice problems.

Key Information

• Funding: Self-funded
• School: Energy, Geoscience, Infrastructure and Society
• Location: Edinburgh
• Delivery type: Full-time, Part-time
• Start date: September

Members of staff who work within this research theme address issues of spatial planning and urban design, as well as linked issues of urban governance. They provide teaching, training, research, and knowledge transfer services in connection with a range of themes and issues. This is targeted to a wide range of governmental, private sector, non-governmental, and community organisations.

Specific research funders in recent years have included the UK Department of Communities and Local Government, the Scottish and Welsh Governments, Scottish Natural Heritage, Carnegie Trust, and the Arts and Humanities Research Council.

Project Supervisor

Staff contributing to this research area include:

• Dr. John McCarthy
• Sarah McIntosh
• Dr. Harry Smith

Research Areas

Researchers address key questions relating to the orientation of policy instruments in spatial planning with modernisation agendas; promoting interdisciplinary approaches to sustainable planning, exploring social inclusion and competitiveness in the governance of spatial planning and the design and management of public space. Emerging research interests include:

• The spatial planning response to the challenges of climate change
• The design of 'liveable' places
• Marine spatial planning
• Differential participation in planning and governance systems

Entry Requirements

Candidate criteria: We welcome applications from suitably qualified candidates.

Funding Information

The tuition fees are as follows: | Status | Full Time | Part Time | | --- | --- | --- | | Scotland | £5,151 | £2,575.50 | | England / Wales / N Ireland | £5,151 | £2,575.50 | | International | £20,456 | £10,228 |

The university offers a number of competitive funded scholarships for research degrees. Full or partial support may be available for well-qualified candidates from UK research councils, research pools, charities, or industry.

Heriot-Watt University

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Overview:

Heriot-Watt University is a research-focused institution with campuses in Edinburgh, the Scottish Borders, Orkney, Dubai, and Malaysia, as well as an online presence. It is known for its career-focused degrees and strong links with industry. Heriot-Watt is highly regarded for its research, with a significant portion ranked world-leading and internationally excellent.

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Services Offered:

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

Heriot-Watt offers a diverse and international student community, with one-third of its Edinburgh Campus students coming from outside the UK. The university provides a range of facilities across its campuses, including healthcare, libraries, food and drink, sports centers, and more. Students can participate in clubs and activities, and the university offers accommodation options near its campuses.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Career-focused degrees:

Heriot-Watt is ranked first in Scotland for graduate employability and its graduates are first in the UK for CEO or MD roles.

Global reach:

The university has campuses across the UK, Dubai, and Malaysia, providing students with a truly international experience.

Strong research:

Heriot-Watt is valued for its pioneering research, which is informed by the global needs of business and industry.

Diverse student community:

The university boasts a diverse international student community, fostering a multicultural learning environment.

Beautiful campuses:

Heriot-Watt's campuses are located in stunning settings, offering students a unique and inspiring learning environment.

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Academic Programs:

Heriot-Watt offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:

• Engineering
• Life Sciences
• Mathematics
• Computer Sciences
• Physical Sciences
• Social Sciences and Business
• Art and Design
• Languages and Culture

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Other:

Heriot-Watt is committed to sustainability and is actively working towards achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The university also offers a personalized virtual experience through its online tour platform, allowing prospective students to explore its campuses virtually.