Interdisciplinary Design for the Built Environment

Interdisciplinary Design for the Built Environment at the University of Cambridge offers a pioneering programme that integrates various disciplines to address the complex challenges of designing, developing, and managing the modern built environment. The course is specifically structured to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of the architectural, engineering, environmental, and social aspects of urban and rural development. Emphasizing an interdisciplinary approach, the programme enables students to collaborate across disciplines, fostering innovative solutions that are sustainable, resilient, and responsive to the needs of diverse communities. Throughout the course, students engage with advanced design methodologies, cutting-edge technologies, and critical theoretical frameworks to develop skills in creative problem-solving and strategic thinking. The programme combines rigorous academic instruction with practical experience, including project-based learning and opportunities for real-world application through partnerships with industry and public sector organizations. Students benefit from Cambridge's rich academic environment, access to experienced faculty, and a vibrant community of researchers and practitioners dedicated to transformative design practices. The interdisciplinary focus ensures graduates are well-prepared to contribute meaningfully to the built environment sector, whether pursuing careers in architecture, urban planning, environmental consultancy, or related fields. By integrating principles from multiple disciplines, the programme aims to produce innovative designers who can improve quality of life and promote sustainable development in diverse settings worldwide.

You will be exposed to a great range of new concepts, ideas and knowledge during the two years of the course.

The ways in which these are supported and presented include:

• Technical lectures on specific aspects of the individual themes of the course, presented by some of the foremost thought leaders from academia and industry.
• ‘Horizon’ lectures on wider interdisciplinary ideas; recent lectures include ‘The structure of Bach’s Fugues’ by Dr Martin Ennis, Senior Lecturer at the Faculty of Music; ‘How animals move’ by Dr David Bainbridge, the University Clinical Veterinary Anatomist; and ‘Maths, geometry, nudity and art’ by Allan McRobie, Reader in the Department of Engineering.
• Workshops and lectures helping you to progress your critical analysis, and research and writing skills.
• Online modules to develop teamwork, leadership and research skills.
• Focused learning and exercises on teamwork, including understanding individual learning styles, personality types and roles.
• Design projects in small teams focusing on a specific problem related to the week’s theme; co-producing knowledge and supporting the development of an understanding of different disciplinary cultures.
• Presentations of the studio projects and of each individual case-study assignment to a supportive and interested audience of your peers.
• Written assignments, based on your own pressing questions, and supported through access to the best academic libraries in the world.
• Individual ‘supervisions’ (the Cambridge word for tutorials) with academic advisors providing expert support for your research.
• Detailed individual written feedback on your assignments and presentations to help you develop as a reflective practitioner.

The development of both written and verbal presentation skills is an essential element of the course, critical to professional success, and one which is widely appreciated by our alumni. Whatever your level of ability to start with, the unique learning style of the course will support your individual development and growth.

During each residential week you will be asked to work in small multidisciplinary groups. Together you will need to think, discuss, draw, write and persuade in order to come to a unified solution to the set problem. At the end of each week all teams present their solutions to their fellow students, and a review panel of studio leaders and stakeholders.  

During the first academic year of the IDBE, participants undertake two individual assignments and a group project. In the second academic year a research dissertation must be completed.

Individual assignments

Participants complete two individual assignments of relevance to their professional settings, namely:

Reflective case study

This 4,000-word essay reflects on the detail of a project you have personally been involved in. Students are asked to consider an element of interdisciplinary design within the project that went particularly well, or particularly poorly; why this may have happened, and what lessons can be learnt from the experience. This is considered against relevant conceptual frameworks and theories, supported by current thinking in the field and practical examples. This essay forms the basis for an individual presentation made during one of the residential weeks during the course.

Literature review essay

This 3,000-word essay is designed to support your developing research and writing skills, focusing on conducting a literature review using academic references.

Group project

In parallel with the individual assignments, participants work in small groups of 5–6 to develop an original piece of thinking on a topic of mutual interest. It can take the form of a research paper, or a proposed model/tool with recommendations for its use. With the help of an expert tutor, each group decides how to approach the project and then develops the ideas and content so that it draws on the collective experience of the group members. Participants must be willing to work collaboratively, share ideas generously and contribute to the fullest extent.

Dissertation

Research towards a dissertation is undertaken with support and guidance from an academic supervisor. The research must follow a recognised qualitative and/or quantitative methodology, but can also take the form of applied research (eg action research). The research can address a topic of relevance to a specific organisation, or focus more generally on a challenge or location.

Participants are encouraged to choose research topics that are: practically focused; cross traditional disciplinary boundaries; and/or address a key social, economic, or environmental challenge in the built environment. The dissertations are expected to be at the same level as would be required on a full-time Master's programme.

Potential areas for research include, but is not limited to, the following:

•    Sustainability 
•    Design and design practice
•    Heritage and conservation
•    Innovation & technology
•    Policy and regulation
•    Retrofit
•    Urbanism and urban design

• At least a 2.i honours bachelor’s degree (or successful completion of a Master’s degree) from a UK University, or an equivalent standard from a recognised overseas institution.
• A minimum of three years' work experience.
• Good ability in written and spoken English language.
• Endorsement from your employer or, if independent, a demonstrated understanding of the time commitment needed to undertake part-time study at this level.
• Access to appropriate computer technology and internet software.
• The ability to pay the course fees or to identify a sponsoring institution.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The Interdisciplinary Design for the Built Environment Master’s program at the University of Cambridge offers students a range of financing options to support their studies. Funded primarily through a combination of scholarships, bursaries, and grants, the program aims to make postgraduate education accessible to a diverse cohort of students. Candidates are encouraged to explore external funding sources such as governmental agencies, charitable foundations, and industry-sponsored scholarships that frequently support students pursuing advanced studies in design, architecture, and related fields. The University of Cambridge itself provides several prestigious scholarships and fellowships, which are awarded based on academic merit, financial need, or specific criteria related to the program. Applicants should carefully review the eligibility requirements and application procedures for these funding opportunities, as late applications may not be considered. The program also participates in the nationally coordinated Postgraduate Funding Competition, which offers grants for international and domestic students. Additionally, some students may be eligible for teaching or research assistantships, which provide a stipend in exchange for part-time work related to their field of study. Financial aid packages may include tuition fee waivers, living expenses support, and travel grants for conference attendance or fieldwork. It is advisable for prospective students to contact the university’s funding advice service early in the application process to identify all potential sources of financial support and to ensure that they meet application deadlines. Overall, the program’s funding framework is designed to facilitate high-quality interdisciplinary research and practical training without undue financial burden, promoting an inclusive academic environment.

The Interdisciplinary Design for the Built Environment program at the University of Cambridge offers a comprehensive curriculum that integrates principles from architecture, urban planning, engineering, and environmental design to prepare students for innovative and sustainable solutions in the built environment. The program combines theoretical knowledge with practical application, emphasizing collaborative projects and real-world problem-solving to foster a holistic understanding of design processes. Students engage with cutting-edge research and technologies, equipping them to address contemporary challenges such as climate change, urbanization, and resource efficiency. The course involves a range of modules covering design theory, technical skills, environmental considerations, and socio-economic impacts. It encourages the development of critical thinking, creativity, and interdisciplinary collaboration, preparing graduates for careers in design consultancy, sustainable development, policy-making, and academia. The program often involves partnerships with industry and government bodies, providing students with valuable professional networks and internship opportunities. Admission requirements typically include a strong academic background in architecture, engineering, or related fields, along with a portfolio demonstrating design skills and a statement of motivation. The University of Cambridge is renowned for its rigorous academic standards and distinguished faculty, offering students an inspiring environment for academic and personal growth. Graduates of the program are well-equipped to contribute to the transformation of the built environment in innovative, sustainable, and socially responsible ways, making significant impacts in their professional fields.