Urban Management

The course has a focus on development situations in southern and transitional countries. It offers training in management approaches that cross the boundaries of isolated knowledge and aims to present workable solutions for city management. The issues addressed are related to the most urgent problems of urban development in many countries, such as environmental degradation, uncontrolled urban growth, insecure land tenure, substandard living conditions for the poor, and inadequate decision-making in local planning systems.

Educational organisation

The curriculum is structured along the following concept:
First semester: creating a common knowledge base including subjects such as urbanisation, history, concepts of sustainable development, public administration and management, management methodology, urban economics, urban planning
Second semester: creating knowledge in core areas of urban management, including subjects such as environmental management, financial management, urban planning techniques, transport management, housing, etc.
Third semester: thesis preparation. The thesis may be prepared in the participants' home countries.

Study abroad unit(s)

The duration of the Master's course is three semesters. Two semesters are reserved for classes at Technische Universität Berlin. The third semester is dedicated to further specialisation and the preparation of a Master's thesis. Topics addressing issues deriving from problems in the students' home countries are encouraged. The programme also involves internships in relevant institutions in Germany or abroad.

Internships

Our students are requested to do internships in Germany or in other countries (in the semester break between the first and the second semester or during the third semester). Programme advisers will assist students in finding an appropriate internship.

Forms of assessment

Papers, presentations and oral exams (30 ECTS per semester)

Course objectives

The programme offers postgraduate training in various fields of urban management, environmental management, and environmental engineering for academics and practitioners working in development contexts in cities and urban areas throughout the world.

Language requirements

Applicants must provide proof of their English skills.

TOEFL minimum score:

• paper-based: 550
• Internet-based: 79-80 (DI-code: 8804)
• computer-based: 213

IELTS: Grade 6 (academic module)
or equivalent test results

German skills are not necessary.

Academic requirements

• Bachelor's degree or an equivalent in urban development related fields
• At least two years of practical experience in a field related to urban management
• TOEFL score of no less than 213 (computer-based), 550 (paper-based) or 80 (Internet-based)

Enrolment fees

Additional administrative fee of approx. 300 EUR per semester, which includes a semester ticket covering public transport in Berlin

Costs of living

Approx. 800 to 850 EUR per month to cover personal expenses

Job opportunities

Job opportunities during the studies will be limited due to the intensive work programme. However, the internship period shall be used to gather professional experience.

Arrival support

Before you arrive in Berlin, we will help you with finding accommodation and - if needed - with the visa procedure. After your arrival, we will help with enrolment at the university, registration with health insurance, opening a bank account, etc.

Services and support for international students

• Introduction to Germany and to the German language
• Assistance in the fields of accommodation, internships, etc.
• Special offers (e.g. get-togethers) in cooperation with other international study programmes in Berlin

Accommodation

Accommodation is available through the Coordination Office of the programme or on the private market. Rent for a single room in a student residence is approx. 300-350 EUR.