Urban Design

The Master of Urban Design at The University of Western Australia (UWA) is a comprehensive postgraduate program designed to equip students with the skills, knowledge, and creative vision necessary to shape sustainable, innovative, and functional urban environments. This degree aims to prepare graduates for professional practice in urban design, planning, and development sectors by fostering an understanding of the complex social, environmental, and economic factors that influence city landscapes. The curriculum combines theoretical foundations with practical applications, emphasizing contemporary design approaches, environmental sustainability, community engagement, and technological advancements in urban planning. Students will explore a diverse range of topics, including urban morphology, public space design, transportation planning, and smart city concepts, enabling them to develop holistic, context-sensitive design solutions. The program promotes interdisciplinary collaboration and critical thinking, encouraging students to consider diverse perspectives and stakeholder interests in their projects. With access to UWA’s state-of-the-art facilities and close connections to industry professionals and urban development authorities, graduates will gain valuable insights into real-world challenges and opportunities. The Master of Urban Design program prepares students for careers in urban design consultancy, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private sector development firms. It also offers a pathway for those interested in pursuing further research or academic positions in urban studies. Through a blend of lectures, studio work, field trips, and workshops, students will refine their design skills and develop a comprehensive understanding of urban processes. Completion of this program empowers graduates to contribute meaningfully to creating vibrant, resilient, and sustainable cities of the future.

The Master of Urban Design at the University of Western Australia is a comprehensive postgraduate program dedicated to developing advanced skills and knowledge in the planning, design, and management of urban spaces. This program aims to equip students with the theoretical foundations and practical expertise necessary to address the complex challenges faced by contemporary cities, including sustainability, livability, environmental impact, social equity, and technological innovation.

Throughout the course, students explore a wide range of topics, such as urban morphology, spatial planning, landscape design, transportation systems, environmental sustainability, and community engagement. The curriculum integrates both studio-based and theoretical learning, encouraging students to develop innovative, context-sensitive urban design solutions that are socially responsible and environmentally sustainable. Students also have opportunities to collaborate on real-world projects, working closely with local communities, government agencies, and industry partners to gain practical experience and insights into professional urban design practices.

The program emphasizes critical thinking, technical proficiency, and creative problem-solving, preparing graduates to work in diverse roles within urban planning, consultancy, government agencies, and non-profit organizations. Students are encouraged to refine their design skills through workshops, seminars, and site visits, which enrich their understanding of urban environments and the factors shaping them.

With access to state-of-the-art facilities and an esteemed academic team, students will benefit from mentorship and guidance from experienced professionals in the field. The Master of Urban Design at UWA also promotes sustainable development principles, ensuring graduates are equipped to create resilient and adaptable urban environments. Whether students aim to enhance existing urban areas or contribute to new developments, this program provides a solid foundation for a dynamic career in urban design and planning.

• Bachelor degree in an Area relating to urban design with a UWA weight average mark of at least 60% or equivalent
• or Perhaps the UWA Graduate Certificate in Urban Design or equivalent as Evidenced by UWA.
  Applicants who aren't graduates of this University must submit an application folio.

The University of Western Australia (UWA) offers various financial aid options to support students enrolled in its Urban Design programs. Prospective students can explore a range of government-funded scholarships, grants, and loan schemes designed to make higher education more accessible. Australia’s Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP) significantly reduce tuition fees for eligible domestic students, with UWA providing guidance on application procedures. Additionally, students are encouraged to investigate full or partial scholarships that may be available through UWA’s Scholarships Office, which awards numerous merit-based and need-based scholarships annually. International students, while generally paying full tuition, have access to specific scholarships such as the UWA International Excellence Scholarships, which can offset costs.

Apart from university-specific support, students can also benefit from external funding sources. These include philanthropic foundations, industry sponsorships, and regional government grants aimed at promoting urban development and planning careers. Moreover, students may be eligible for student loans through the Higher Education Loan Program (HELP), which offers income-contingent loans to domestic students to assist with tuition fees. UWA also provides advice on part-time work opportunities both on and off campus, helping students manage their finances while balancing academic commitments.

Cost of living in Perth, Western Australia, is another consideration, and students are advised to budget for accommodation, transportation, textbooks, and personal expenses. UWA’s dedicated financial aid advisors can assist students in creating comprehensive financial plans. For international students, the overall costs include tuition fees, health insurance (Overseas Student Health Cover), and visa application charges, which should be factored into the financing plan before arrival. Overall, UWA’s multifaceted approach to student financing aims to ensure that financial circumstances do not hinder talented individuals from pursuing their urban design studies, fostering a diverse and innovative academic community.

The University of Western Australia offers a comprehensive program in Urban Design that equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary to shape sustainable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing urban environments. The program integrates principles from architecture, planning, landscape architecture, and environmental design to prepare graduates for diverse careers in urban planning, development, and design. Students engage in a variety of coursework including urban theory, site analysis, design studios, and sustainable development practices, fostering a deep understanding of how to influence the physical and social aspects of cities. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning through studio projects, fieldwork, and collaborative research with industry professionals, providing real-world experience in designing urban spaces that promote community well-being and environmental resilience. The program also explores contemporary issues such as urban mobility, smart city technologies, climate change adaptation, and social equity, ensuring graduates can contribute meaningfully to addressing complex urban challenges. Faculty members are distinguished professionals and researchers who bring contemporary insights into the curriculum, facilitating an innovative learning environment. The university’s strong connection with industry partners and government agencies offers students internship and networking opportunities that facilitate career development upon graduation. The program is designed for students interested in careers in urban planning agencies, consultancy firms, government departments, or non-profit organizations dedicated to sustainable city development. With state-of-the-art facilities and a focus on experiential learning, the Urban Design program at UWA aims to develop skilled professionals capable of transforming urban areas into healthier, more accessible, and more resilient places to live and work.