Sustainable Urban Development

Master of Science in Sustainable Urban Development at the University of Oxford offers a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach to addressing the complex challenges of urban growth, environmental sustainability, and social inclusion. This rigorous program is designed for students committed to making a positive impact in urban environments by equipping them with advanced knowledge and practical skills. Through a combination of theoretical frameworks, policy analysis, and real-world case studies, students will explore key topics such as urban planning, transportation, renewable energy integration, green infrastructure, and social equity. The curriculum emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, encouraging students to work across sectors and disciplines to develop innovative solutions for sustainable cities. Delivered by leading experts in the field, this program also offers opportunities for fieldwork, internships, and engagement with policymakers and practitioners. Graduates will be prepared for careers in urban planning agencies, government departments, environmental organizations, and consulting firms. The University of Oxford’s distinguished academic community, cutting-edge research, and extensive network of global partners create an enriching environment for learning. By completing this program, students will gain the analytical skills, strategic perspective, and practical experience necessary to foster sustainable development in urban areas worldwide. The MSc in Sustainable Urban Development is ideal for those eager to contribute to shaping resilient, inclusive, and environmentally responsible cities for the future.

Students admitted to the programme are usually motivated to undertake detailed research in preparation for an academic career and other research-intensive occupations; to have a substantial impact on future policy-making processes; or to pursue and/or advance their professional career at organizations and institutions operating in the field of sustainable urban development. The course provides support and an intellectual environment by leading scholars in the field to pursue your own independent research.

Pattern of teaching, learning and supervision

This is a part-time DPhil programme, taken over a minimum of four years and a maximum of eight years. Students admitted to this degree will conduct their own research under the guidance of a University supervisor, who will advise on all aspects of training, development and academic progress.

As a student on the DPhil, you will be required to attend a minimum of 30 days of university-based work each year for the duration of your studies, to be arranged with the agreement of the supervisor.

In being admitted to the degree you must be prepared to work independently a good deal, and you will need considerable personal motivation. You are required to have a good general knowledge of the field within which research falls and of the methods appropriate to the study of this field. Throughout the period of study, you will be part of a thriving international graduate community of students engaged with sustainable urban development, including students on the part-time MSc in Sustainable Urban Development.

You will be admitted initially as a Probationary Research Student (PRS), in line with University regulations on doctorates. During the probationary period, you will develop and begin work on the thesis topic. You will develop research skills through a range of training and skills development primarily offered via the Department for Continuing Education Graduate School, as well as across the University.

Students must apply for a Transfer of Status from PRS to DPhil status between the 6th and the 8th academic term after admission, each academic year at Oxford having three terms. This involves the submission of a piece of written work that is examined by two assessors, neither of whom will be supervisors. This process is to ensure that your work is of potential DPhil quality and that the methodology of the research is appropriate and feasible. Upon successful completion of the Transfer of Status, you would usually undertake a period of primary fieldwork/data collection over one to two years.

You will also be required to apply for a Confirmation of Status as DPhil sometime between the 12th and 18th term after admission. This will also involve the submission of a piece of written work that is assessed by two assessors, neither of whom are supervisors. The Confirmation of Status assessment is different to the Transfer of Status assessment as the assessors will be focusing on how the research is progressing, the quality of the draft chapters/papers, and on the plan for completion. The assessors will be looking to ensure that the student is making the appropriate amount of progress in the development of your thesis, so that thesis submission will be achieved within the time limit.

Award of the DPhil is dependent upon completion of a 100,000-word doctoral thesis to the satisfaction of two examiners, neither of whom are supervisors, and defending that thesis in a more formal viva voce with the two examiners.

Applicants are normally expected to be predicted or have achieved a first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours (or equivalent international qualifications), as a minimum, in any discipline.

For applicants with a degree from the USA, the minimum GPA normally sought is 3.7 out of 4.0.

Applicants are also normally expected to have achieved or be expected to achieve an overall distinction grade, or a very high upper second-class, in a master's degree in a discipline relevant to sustainable urban development and/or exceptionally good professional experience in the field of research, with a good master's degree. 

If you hold non-UK qualifications and wish to check how your qualifications match these requirements, you can contact the National Recognition Information Centre for the United Kingdom (UK NARIC).

As this is a part-time DPhil, it is anticipated (although not required) that many applicants will have professional experience in a field relevant to sustainable urban development.

No Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or GMAT scores are sought.

• Official transcript(s)
• CV/résumé
• Research proposal: Around 3,000 words
• Written work: One essay of up to 4,000 words
• References/letters of recommendation:Three overall, generally academic

ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS

Higher level

The University of Oxford offers various funding options for students enrolled in the Sustainable Urban Development program. Prospective students are encouraged to explore a range of financial support mechanisms, including scholarships, grants, and bursaries, which are available to both domestic and international students. One of the primary sources of funding is the Oxford Scholarship programs, which include numerous scholarships dedicated to students pursuing sustainability, urban planning, and related fields. These scholarships often cover partial or full tuition fees and sometimes include a living stipend. Applicants are advised to check the specific eligibility criteria and application deadlines for each scholarship, as these can vary significantly.

In addition to internal scholarships, students may consider external funding sources such as government-sponsored awards, charitable foundations, and industry-sponsored scholarships. Many governments offer loan programs and financial aid packages for students studying abroad at prestigious universities like Oxford. Students from the UK may access the UK Student Loans Company, while international students are encouraged to investigate country-specific scholarship programs and financial aid options.

The University of Oxford also provides access to bursaries based on financial need, which can help cover living expenses or other costs associated with the program. Some departments and colleges offer targeted funding for students in Sustainable Urban Development; therefore, engaging directly with the departmental administration or college financial offices is highly recommended.

Furthermore, students are advised to consider work opportunities on or near campus, such as research assistantships or part-time work, which can supplement their income during their studies. For international students, work restrictions vary, so they should consult the university’s international student guidelines to understand permissible employment during their course.

Graduate students may also be eligible for specific funding schemes such as the Clarendon Fund, which provides fully-funded scholarships to outstanding students across various graduate programs at Oxford. Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a strong commitment to their field.

It is essential for prospective students to thoroughly research all available funding options early in the application process to maximize their chances of securing financial assistance. The university’s official financial aid webpage provides comprehensive information, application procedures, and advice for applicants seeking funding for the Sustainable Urban Development program.

The MSc in Sustainable Urban Development at the University of Oxford is a comprehensive interdisciplinary program designed to prepare students to address the complex challenges of creating sustainable cities worldwide. This program draws on the university’s renowned expertise in urban studies, environmental sciences, policy, and planning, providing a rigorous academic framework complemented by practical applications. Students engage with core issues such as urban infrastructure, housing, transportation, environmental resilience, and social equity, ensuring a well-rounded understanding of sustainable urban development principles.

The curriculum typically combines taught modules, workshops, and independent projects, allowing students to develop critical thinking, research skills, and practical solutions for urban sustainability. The program emphasizes the integration of ecological sustainability with social and economic considerations, recognizing that sustainable urban development requires multifaceted approaches. Students have access to cutting-edge research facilities and are encouraged to collaborate with global partners, policymakers, and industry professionals.

The MSc program is suitable for recent graduates and experienced professionals aiming to influence urban development policies and practices. Graduates of the program often go on to work in governmental agencies, international organizations, urban planning firms, and research institutions, contributing to the development of more livable, efficient, and environmentally responsible cities.

Admission to the program generally requires a strong academic background in relevant fields such as geography, urban planning, environmental sciences, engineering, or related disciplines. The University of Oxford’s long-standing reputation for academic excellence and its focus on interdisciplinary research ensure that students receive a high-quality education that equips them with the skills necessary to drive positive change in urban environments worldwide. Furthermore, the program benefits from Oxford’s global network, providing students with unique opportunities for academic exchange and professional development.