MSc in Architecture, Urbanism & Climate Action

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 1 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Next Intake TBA

Course Overview

The MSc in Architecture, Urbanism & Climate Action at University College Dublin is designed for those ready to confront the urgent challenges of climate change within our built environments. You will gain specialist skills to plan, design, and realise resilient and sustainable urban spaces, responding to the critical need for climate action in cities. This postgraduate programme integrates knowledge of climate science, policy, GIS, systems thinking, and environmental ethics, preparing you to lead in creating low-carbon, inclusive developments. It is ideal for graduates and returning professionals seeking to deepen their expertise in this vital interdisciplinary field.

This full-time, on-campus Masters degree is studied over one year, offering a dynamic learning experience through core modules and a diverse range of optional subjects drawn from across University College Dublin. You will engage with practical applications of geoinformatics (GIS) and explore concepts like urban resilience and geodesign. A significant feature is the summer trimester Linked Research Project, which allows you to undertake a thesis, join a collaborative research project, or complete an internship with a leading low-carbon development company. You will graduate with the advanced knowledge and practical experience to pursue impactful careers in sustainable architecture and urban planning.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This MSc program equips students with the knowledge and skills to address the urgent challenges of climate change within architectural and urban contexts. Core modules explore architecture's role in the climate emergency, carbon-neutral cities, geodesign, urban resilience, and environmental politics. Students can further specialize through a wide array of option modules covering topics such as built project realization, urban design, building retrofit, energy systems, environmental economics, GIS, and planning. The program culminates in a research project or internship, preparing graduates for impactful careers in sustainable urban development and climate action.

1 Stage 1 Core Modules

Architecture in a Climate Emergency
Climate Carbon Cities Change
Geodesign for Urban Futures
Urban Resilience and Ethics
Research for Environmental Politics

2 Stage 1 Option Modules

Realising Built Projects
Street Life: Urban Design, an Introduction
Postgraduate Studio
Retrofit Existing Buildings
Energy System & Sustainable Environments
Environmental Economics & Climate Policy
GIS Principles and Applications
Practical Environmental Assessment
Remote Sensing
Urban and Regional Development
Planning Institutions & Governance
Carbon & Sustainability
Urban Design Studio
Agency: Design / Build
Air Pollution
Behavioural Economics: Policy Application
Tools for Sustainable Development
Reimagining Dublin: An Interdisciplinary Exploration in Urban Regeneration
Advanced GIS Applications
Coastal Risks
Climate Change Law and Policy
Conservation and Placemaking
Rural & Landscape Planning
Environment & Sustainability
Planning, Design & Development

3 Stage 1 Summer Option Modules

Linked Research Project
MAUCA Internship

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 35,232.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 35,232.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 349.00 - USD 849.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,930.00 - USD 5,613.00
Transport USD 842.00 - USD 1,965.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,404.00 - USD 2,105.00
Estimated Total USD 6,176.00 - USD 9,683.00

Living cost estimates are based on Belfield campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

99%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Accreditation & Assessment ServicesAgribusiness Inputs (Seeds, Fertilizers & Machinery)Agricultural Services & ExtensionBrokerage & Trading & SecuritiesCorporate Finance & TreasuryCorporate Training & DevelopmentCustomer Experience & SupportEconomic Research & PolicyIT Support & Systems AdministrationSpecial & Inclusive Education

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Accenture

Amazon Web Services

Department of Agriculture and Rural development, Northern Ireland Government

Dublin City University

Maynooth University

RPS

Teagasc

Trinity College Dublin

Why Study MSc in Architecture, Urbanism & Climate Action at University College Dublin

What makes this program stand out

Top 20 in UK For Computer Science

Exeter's Computer Science department consistently ranks among the top 20 in the UK for both teaching quality and research output.

Fast Offers Quick turnaround

Exeter typically responds to applications within 2-3 weeks, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Flexible Intakes September start

Primary intake in September with January start available for some pathways through the INTO foundation program.

Accredited Industry recognized

Accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, meeting requirements for Chartered IT Professional (CITP) status.

Life at University College Dublin in Ireland

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about MSc in Architecture, Urbanism & Climate Action at University College Dublin

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and 40 hours per week during breaks. No separate work permit is needed, but students must be enrolled full-time in a qualifying program.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet English language requirements, you can take tests like Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE. Specific scores vary by test; for example, Duolingo requires an overall score of 120.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Potential job titles include sustainable architect, urban planner, climate policy advisor, environmental consultant, and GIS specialist.

What will I actually study in this course?

This program focuses on sustainable urban spaces and climate action, equipping you with skills in climate science and geoinformatics (GIS). You will engage in practical applications and have the opportunity to work on a Linked Research Project.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The MSc in Architecture, Urbanism & Climate Action program at University College Dublin has an intake in September each year. Make sure to prepare your application ahead of time to meet the deadlines.
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