MSc in Urban Design and Planning

Urban design lies at the interface of architecture and urban planning, with both disciplines contributing complementary but contrasting approaches to urban design theory and practice. This Masters programme is focused on the role of urban design in the context of urban planning, and is delivered with an emphasis on the distinct methodologies, professional perspectives and pedagogies of that discipline. It provides specialist knowledge and skills in: urban design theory; urban conservation; risk, resilience and sustainability; as well as social science research methods applied to the built environment. The programme will enable graduates to work as part of a multidisciplinary team to create better places through urban design. Students will also have the opportunity to draw upon the School’s research expertise to place design centre-stage in tackling a range of pressing environmental and other issues. This programme will equip planners and others working in related areas with the capacity to develop urban design solutions, to analyses them critically and to provide guidance in regards to their implementation one for which there is a growing demand. This includes traditional urban design concerns surrounding the urban public realm, residential quality etc., but also emerging challenges surrounding the role of urban design in mitigating or adapting to climate change, the role of design in promoting ‘healthy’ cities or neighbourhoods, and the incorporation of ‘nature’ into design (e.g. bio-mimicry) to address biodiversity loss. The MSc Urban Design & Planning is accredited as a specialist qualification by the Royal Town Planning Institute. Careers & Employability This Masters trains, mentors and supports graduates in developing their specialist knowledge and understanding, along with transferable skills and tools, for careers related to the field. These include roles in the public, private and community sectors, including planning and urban design consultancies, local authorities, development firms, regeneration companies, environmental and other NGOs, as well as research and teaching. Course Description The MSc Urban Design and Planning will be delivered via a mix of: traditional lecture formats, seminars, field-based learning, studio-based teaching (intensive, interactive, practice-based labs), student-led seminars, as well as a thesis, and professional development skills training. Planning and architecture practitioners will be involved in the programme delivery (e.g. attending studio presentations, providing ‘real world’ challenges to inform teaching) to maximize relevance for professional skills development. Indicative modules are listed below. Core modules in urban design context and theory provide students with foundation knowledge in urban design. Placemaking Conservation, History Theory and Politics The Urban Environment: Risk, Resilience and Sustainability Economics and Property Markets (option) Research and Innovation in the Designed Environment (option) Three major studio modules will be undertaken by students to ensure the effective application of knowledge to design challenges. The first will focus on developing a strategy for a small to medium-sized town. Interdisciplinary Studio Urban Design Studio Nature-based Solutions Core modules in research skills are designed to enable students to undertake an effective Masters thesis, to apply research skills to other modules (e.g. studios), and to act as a foundation for students wishing to pursue PhD study. These modules comprise: Geographical Information Systems for Policy and Planning (option) Research Design and Methods