Urban Design

The Master of Urban Design at The University of Western Australia offers a comprehensive and innovative program aimed at equipping students with the skills, knowledge, and professional practices necessary to shape sustainable, functional, and aesthetically engaging urban environments. This program emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, integrating principles of architecture, landscape architecture, planning, and social sciences to prepare graduates for diverse roles within the urban design sector. Through a combination of theoretical coursework and practical experience, students engage in a variety of projects that address contemporary urban challenges such as climate change adaptation, transportation, community development, and smart city initiatives. The curriculum encourages critical thinking and creative problem-solving, fostering an understanding of how urban spaces influence social equity, environmental sustainability, and economic vitality. Students explore topics including urban morphology, public space design, GIS and spatial analysis, participatory planning, and policy development. The program also offers opportunities for internships and collaborations with industry partners, providing real-world exposure and professional networking. Graduates of the Master of Urban Design are prepared for careers in urban planning agencies, governmental bodies, private consultancy firms, and non-profit organizations dedicated to urban development. They are equipped to lead innovative projects that enhance urban livability and resilience, contributing meaningfully to the creation of sustainable, inclusive, and dynamic cities. With state-of-the-art facilities and expert faculty, the program fosters an engaging learning environment that promotes inquiry, creativity, and practical expertise. Whether students aim to influence urban policies or engage in design praxis, the Master of Urban Design at UWA provides a solid foundation for impactful careers in shaping the cities of tomorrow.

• Urban Design Studio
• Urban Design Workshop 
• Contemporary Urbanism (Twentieth and Twenty-first Century)
• The Forces that Shape Cities
• Case Studies in Urban Design
• Urban Design Research Methods
• Urban Design Research

1. A relevant bachelor's degree, or an equivalent qualification, as recognised by UWA; and the equivalent of a UWA weighted average mark of at least 60 per cent; or
2. A Graduate Diploma in Urban Design, or an equivalent qualification, as recognised by UWA; and the equivalent of a UWA weighted average mark of at least 65 per cent.
3. All international students at UWA are required to pay tuition fees for their programs of study. The tuition fee is based on the student's course of study. Fees increase on an annual basis.New students should refer to their Acceptance of Offer Contract and once enrolled, their Statement of Account for tuition fees.
4. AUD $100 application processing fee (credit card payment accepted).
5. Your contact details.
6. Supporting documentation (such as your English language competence test results, academic transcripts, passport ID page and other documentation for course-specific requirements).
7. Academic transcripts must be uploaded as one single collated PDF only (not as separate PDF pages).
8. You must meet the English language requirements of the University to be eligible for a place.
9. IELTS. Overall score minimum of 6.5, no band less than 6.0 (must include Academic Reading and Writing modules)
10. or TOEFL. Essay Rating / Test of Written English (TWE) of 4.5 and either 230 (Computer-based) or 570 (Paper-based) score. Next Generation TOEFL - Internet-based Test (iBT): An overall score of 82 with a minimum score of: 22 in the Writing section;18 in the Reading section; 20 in the Speaking section; and 20 in the Listening section. International postgraduate scholarship applicants require a score of 580 (paper based) or 237 (computer-based) with a TWE of 4.5

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

International Postgraduate Research Scholarships (IPRS)

Applications are invited from suitably qualified international students to apply for International Postgraduate Research Scholarships (IPRS) to undertake the degree of Master by Research or Doctorate by Research at The University of Western Australia. An application for a scholarship is also an application for admission to the University.

The purpose of the IPRS scheme is to attract top quality international postgraduate students to areas in which the University has specialised research strengths and to support Australia's research effort. Successful applicants can expect to become members of a research team working under the direction of senior researchers and in an area which has attracted external resources.

These scholarships cover International Tuition Fees for up to four (4) years, as well as Overseas Student Health Cover.

Successful applicants will also be awarded a full living allowance scholarship and UWA Top-Up Scholarship (the total combined value for 2015 is $29,000 per annum). Please see the entry for Australian Postgraduate Awards and UWA Safety-Net Top-Up Scholarships for further information.

Please also refer to the Australian Government website for Frequently Asked Questions about International Postgraduate Research Scholarships (IPRS).

The University of Western Australia offers a comprehensive program in Urban Design that aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to shape sustainable, functional, and aesthetically compelling urban environments. The program emphasizes the integration of design principles with urban planning, landscape architecture, and environmental considerations to create vibrant communities. Throughout the course, students explore topics such as urban morphology, transportation systems, green infrastructure, architectural design, and community engagement. The curriculum combines theoretical foundations with practical applications, including studio-based projects, site analyses, and collaborative design challenges, preparing graduates for careers in urban development, consultancy, government agencies, and non-profit organizations. The program is designed to foster innovative thinking, technical proficiency, and an understanding of policy frameworks that influence urban form and function. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including dedicated design studios and digital modelling labs, to develop their concepts and prototypes. Industry connections are facilitated through guest lectures, internships, and partnership projects, ensuring graduates are ready to meet the demands of contemporary urban challenges. The program also encourages interdisciplinary collaboration, integrating perspectives from architecture, geography, environmental science, and social sciences to promote holistic urban solutions. Upon completion, graduates receive a Bachelor of Urban Design, which qualifies them for various roles such as urban designer, city planner, landscape architect, and development consultant. The university maintains a strong commitment to sustainability and social equity, encouraging students to consider environmental impact and community well-being in their designs. Overall, UWA’s Urban Design program prepares students to become thoughtful professionals capable of shaping innovative and sustainable urban futures in Australia and globally.