Urban Design

The Bachelor of Urban Design at The University of Western Australia offers a comprehensive and innovative curriculum that prepares students to become influential professionals in creating sustainable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing urban environments. This undergraduate program is designed for individuals passionate about shaping the future of cities and communities through thoughtful design, planning, and development. Students will engage with a diverse range of topics including urban morphology, landscape architecture, transportation planning, environmental sustainability, social equity, and digital technologies that influence modern urban design practices. The program combines theoretical foundations with practical skills, enabling students to produce creative solutions to complex urban challenges. Through collaborative projects, fieldwork, and internships, students will gain real-world experience working alongside industry experts and community stakeholders. The curriculum emphasizes current global trends such as smart city development, climate resilience, and inclusive urban spaces, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to address tomorrow’s urban issues. UWA’s state-of-the-art facilities and supportive academic environment foster innovative thinking and professional growth. Graduates of this program are prepared for careers in urban planning consultancies, governmental agencies, environmental organizations, and private development firms, where they can contribute to designing sustainable, resilient, and vibrant urban areas. By combining a rich academic tradition with contemporary practices, the Bachelor of Urban Design at UWA offers an academic pathway for students committed to making a positive impact on urban life worldwide.

The Bachelor of Urban Design at The University of Western Australia offers a comprehensive and innovative program aimed at equipping students with the skills and knowledge necessary to shape sustainable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing urban environments. This program integrates principles of architecture, landscape design, planning, and social sciences to prepare graduates for diverse roles in urban development and planning sectors. Throughout the course, students are immersed in contemporary issues such as sustainable development, environmental resilience, transportation systems, and community engagement, allowing them to develop a holistic understanding of urban design challenges and solutions.

The curriculum combines theoretical foundations with practical application, including studio-based learning, design projects, and site analysis. Students learn to develop conceptual and detailed design proposals, utilizing advanced digital tools and software to create innovative urban solutions. The program emphasizes the importance of engaging with local communities and stakeholders to ensure that urban spaces meet the needs of diverse populations while promoting inclusivity and social equity.

In addition to core design studios, students undertake modules in urban planning, policy development, landscape architecture, and environmental sustainability. The program encourages critical thinking, creativity, and interdisciplinary collaboration, preparing graduates to work effectively across sectors such as government, consultancy, and non-governmental organizations. Specializations or electives may include transport planning, historic preservation, and resilient city design, enabling students to tailor their learning experience to their interests.

Throughout their studies, students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including digital labs and design studios, as well as practical experiences through internships and industry partnerships. The program aims to cultivate visionary urban designers who are committed to creating resilient, equitable, and vibrant urban spaces that enhance the quality of life for all residents. Graduates of the Bachelor of Urban Design are well-equipped to pursue careers in urban planning, design consultancy, development agencies, and policy-making, contributing meaningfully to the development of sustainable cities both locally and globally.

• Undergraduate degree in a field about urban design Using a weighted average of 60 per cent, or equivalent as recognised by the Faculty to the recommendation of the Urban Design Program (UDP) Academic Committee
• Or the Graduate Degree in Urban Design Having a weighted average of 65 per cent, or equivalent as recognised by the Faculty to the recommendation of the UDP Academic Committee

The University of Western Australia offers various financing options for students enrolled in its Urban Design programs. Prospective students are encouraged to explore a range of funding avenues, including government-supported schemes such as Commonwealth supported loadings and student loans. Domestic students may be eligible for HECS-HELP or FEE-HELP assistance, which can substantially reduce upfront tuition costs and allow for flexible repayment options based on income. International students funding options typically include tuition fee payments, with some scholarships or grants available to outstanding applicants.

UWA provides a number of scholarships and grants that can assist with tuition fees, living expenses, and study-related costs. These scholarships are often awarded based on academic merit, financial need, or special criteria such as geographic origin or community involvement. Students are advised to regularly check the university’s scholarship page for updated information about available funding opportunities specific to urban design or related disciplines.

In addition to university-based financial aid, students can seek external funding from government agencies or private organizations. For instance, the Australian government offers various grants and bursaries for students engaged in architecture, urban planning, or design fields, which may be applicable to urban design students.

Students are also encouraged to consider part-time work opportunities available on or near campus. The university’s career services provide guidance on employment options and strategies to balance work commitments with academic responsibilities, which can help supplement personal finances during studies. Furthermore, some programs may include industry projects or internships that offer stipends or financial support, providing practical experience alongside earning opportunities.

International students should be aware of the specific tuition fees for non-resident students, which tend to be higher than those for domestic students, and plan their finances accordingly. They may also explore scholarship opportunities for international students offered by UWA or external organizations to mitigate costs.

Overall, financing a degree in Urban Design at UWA involves a combination of government assistance programs, scholarships, external funding sources, and personal financial planning. Prospective students are urged to contact the university’s financial aid office for detailed, personalized guidance and to stay informed about application deadlines and eligibility criteria for various funding options.

The Bachelor of Urban Design at The University of Western Australia offers students an in-depth understanding of the principles and practices involved in shaping sustainable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing urban environments. The program is designed to equip graduates with a comprehensive skill set that combines design, planning, environmental analysis, and community engagement, preparing them for a range of careers in urban development, landscape architecture, city planning, and related fields. Throughout the course, students explore topics such as urban morphology, spatial planning, sustainable design practices, transportation systems, and the socio-economic factors influencing city growth and development. The curriculum emphasizes the importance of designing inclusive and resilient urban spaces that cater to diverse community needs and foster environmental stewardship. Students have opportunities to undertake practical projects, engaging with real-world urban issues through studio work, field trips, and collaborations with local government agencies and development organizations. The program fosters critical thinking, creativity, and technical proficiency, ensuring graduates are equipped to contribute positively to urban environments and address contemporary challenges such as climate change, housing affordability, and infrastructure development. Additionally, the university provides access to modern design studios, state-of-the-art technology, and experienced faculty members who are active researchers and practitioners in the field. The program is accredited by relevant professional bodies, facilitating graduates' progression into professional practice or further postgraduate study. Overall, the Bachelor of Urban Design at UWA aims to develop innovative professionals capable of designing sustainable, vibrant, and equitable urban futures that meet the demands of rapidly changing societal needs.