Urban Planning Design and Management

Program title: Urban Planning Design and Management

Description: The MSc in Urban Planning Design and Management at University College London is a comprehensive program that prepares students to become innovative professionals capable of shaping sustainable and inclusive urban environments. The course offers an interdisciplinary approach, integrating principles from architecture, urban design, planning, policy, and management to address complex urban challenges. Students will develop essential skills in spatial analysis, strategic planning, project management, and community engagement, enabling them to create effective solutions for diverse urban contexts.

Throughout the program, students explore contemporary issues such as urban regeneration, transportation, housing, environmental sustainability, and digital innovations in planning. The curriculum combines rigorous academic coursework with practical, real-world projects that encourage critical thinking and creative problem-solving. Emphasis is placed on understanding the social, economic, and environmental impacts of planning decisions, ensuring graduates are equipped to promote sustainable development and social equity.

The program also fosters collaborative learning, encouraging students to work in multidisciplinary teams and engage with industry professionals through workshops, seminars, and industry placements. Students benefit from UCL’s strong links with governmental agencies, private sector organizations, and international institutions, providing valuable opportunities for networking and career development.

Graduates of the MSc in Urban Planning Design and Management are prepared for a wide range of careers in urban planning, policy development, consultancy, and management within both public and private sectors. They are equipped to contribute effectively to the creation of resilient, innovative, and sustainable urban environments worldwide, making a meaningful impact on the way cities are planned and managed for future generations.

In each year of your degree you will take a number of individual modules, normally valued at 0.5 or 1.0 credits, adding up to a total of 4.0 credits for the year. Modules are assessed in the academic year in which they are taken. The balance of compulsory and optional modules varies from programme to programme and year to year. A 1.0 credit is considered equivalent to 15 credits in the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS).

This programme shares common modules with the Urban Studies BSc, meaning you can move freely between the programmes up until the start of your final year.
This programme is based around three streams of modules. A hands-on project-based stream entitled Delivering Urban Change is designed to allow you to put into practice the knowledge gained through two other streams, Understanding Urban Change and Managing Urban Change.

The programme offers the opportunity to study overseas for one term in the second year as part of the degree. The school has long-established links with many universities in Europe including Spain, Germany and the Netherlands as well as a growing list in the USA and the Asia-Pacific including universities in Hong Kong and in Melbourne.

In addition to core modules, the programme offers specialist modules in rural planning (Beyond Cities), Urban Form, Urban Design, Regeneration, Transport Policy and Planning.

In years one and two, students have the flexibility to swap a specialist module for a language, selected from one of the 17 (or more) languages taught in UCL's Centre for Languages and International Education (CLIE).

A levels

Grades

ABB

Subjects

No specific subjects.

GCSEs

English Language and Mathematics at grade C. For UK-based students, a grade C or equivalent in a foreign language (other than Ancient Greek, Biblical Hebrew or Latin) is required. UCL provides opportunities to meet the foreign language requirement following enrolment, further details at: www.ucl.ac.uk/ug-reqs

IB Diploma

Points

34

Subjects

A score of 16 points in three higher level subjects, with no score lower than 5.

The Urban Planning Design and Management program at University College London offers a range of financing options to support students throughout their studies. Tuition fees are established annually and depend on the student's residency status. For home students, the fees are typically set at a competitive rate, reflecting the university's commitment to accessible education. International students may encounter higher tuition charges, which are also updated each academic year. Students are encouraged to explore available scholarships, bursaries, and financial aid packages offered directly by UCL or external organizations. Scholarships may be awarded based on academic merit, financial need, or specific criteria related to the field of urban planning. The university provides detailed guidance on the application process for these financial awards, which often require submission of supporting documentation and adherence to specific deadlines. Additionally, students can consider government-funded loans or repayment plans where applicable, particularly for those pursuing postgraduate studies. UCL also facilitates the option of part-time study, enabling students to work alongside their coursework to help cover living expenses and reduce the reliance on external funding. On-campus employment opportunities are available for eligible students, offering flexible part-time roles that support practical experience while earning supplementary income. Cost-of-living in London is an important consideration, and students are advised to budget for accommodation, transportation, food, insurance, and other personal expenses. UCL provides comprehensive financial advice through its student support services, assisting students in planning their finances effectively. For those requiring further financial assistance, external funding options such as research grants, industry sponsorships, or philanthropic foundations may be available, depending on the student’s profile and application strength. Overall, the program encourages prospective students to thoroughly research and prepare their financial plans early to ensure a smooth academic journey at UCL.

Urban Planning Design and Management at University College London (UCL) offers a comprehensive academic experience that prepares students for careers in the development and management of urban environments. The program emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, combining principles of architecture, planning, environmental sustainability, social sciences, and management to equip graduates with the skills necessary to address complex urban challenges. Students engage with current issues such as sustainable development, urban regeneration, transport, infrastructure, and policy-making, ensuring they gain a thorough understanding of the dynamic nature of contemporary cities. The curriculum includes a blend of theoretical modules and practical projects, often involving real-world case studies and collaborations with industry stakeholders, fostering problem-solving abilities and innovative thinking. UCL’s location in London provides students with unparalleled access to a vibrant urban laboratory, where they can observe and analyze diverse urban phenomena firsthand. The program typically involves a combination of coursework, seminars, workshops, and site visits, culminating in a dissertation that demonstrates students' capacity for independent research. Graduates of the program are well-equipped to pursue professional careers in urban planning agencies, local governments, consultancy firms, or continue with postgraduate study. The university’s strong connections with industry and government, along with its research excellence, ensure that students receive an education aligned with current professional standards. Furthermore, the program promotes a global perspective, encouraging students to consider sustainable practices and planning policies applicable in various international contexts. The department offers a supportive learning environment with access to advanced facilities, expert faculty, and opportunities for internships and networking, all aimed at nurturing the next generation of urban planners and managers committed to creating sustainable, inclusive, and resilient urban spaces worldwide.