University of Westminster United Kingdom

Urban Design MA

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 1 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The Urban Design MA at the University of Westminster is designed for aspiring professionals eager to shape the future of our cities. In an increasingly urbanised world, the demand for skilled urban designers is growing internationally, addressing challenges in urban form, development processes, and the creation of sustainable, meaningful urban spaces. This postgraduate course offers a comprehensive approach, blending rigorous academic study with practical design projects, making it ideal for those seeking to advance their careers in architecture, landscape architecture, or planning. You will explore the dynamic interplay between urban design and planning within diverse contexts.

This full-time, on-campus Masters degree is typically studied over one year, immersing you in a curriculum focused on the design of urban spaces and the sustainable development of cities. You will engage with core modules covering urban form, development processes, and place-making, alongside an essential urban design field trip. Your learning will culminate in a significant Urban Design Project and a Dissertation or Major Project, allowing you to apply your acquired knowledge to real-world challenges. You will graduate with a strong portfolio and the expertise to pursue rewarding careers in urban regeneration, planning, and design internationally.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Master's program in Urban Design explores the dynamic nature of cities, focusing on urban design and planning within their broader contexts. You will delve into urban form, growth, and the development process, while also considering the crucial elements of place and experience in urban spaces. The curriculum emphasizes sustainable cities and neighborhoods, culminating in a significant dissertation or major project. A range of optional modules allows for specialization in areas such as information management, environmental policy, heritage conservation, community engagement, housing, urban regeneration, and resilient planning.

1 Core modules

The dynamic city: urban design and planning in context Compulsory
Urban form and growth Compulsory
Urban design and development process Compulsory
Urban design project Compulsory
Place and experience in design of urban spaces Compulsory
Urban design field trip Compulsory
Sustainable cities and neighbourhoods Compulsory
Dissertation / major project Compulsory

2 Option modules

Information management applications for urban planning
Emerging landscapes and urban ecologies
Environmental policy, assessment and climate change
Conservation and heritage
Communities towards sustainability: public engagement
Housing and urban regeneration
Planning for urban risk and resilience
Sustainable neighbourhood development and management
International spatial planning practice
Streets, places and active transport
Land use planning and transport
Destination development: case study perspective
Extended essay option for planning, transport and urban design

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,330.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 24,330.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,115.00 - USD 1,588.00
Food & Groceries USD 4,833.00 - USD 9,666.00
Transport USD 1,128.00 - USD 2,417.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,611.00 - USD 3,222.00
Estimated Total USD 7,572.00 - USD 15,305.00

Living cost estimates are based on Marylebone Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

95%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Civil & Infrastructure EngineeringFood Processing & ManufacturingGovernment & Regulatory AgenciesIndustrial & Offshore ConstructionQuantity Surveying & Cost EstimationRail & Mass TransitReal Estate DevelopmentSupply Chain & Commodity TradingSupply Chain & Freight ManagementUrban Mobility & Smart Transport

Top Employers Hiring for this course

AECOM

Foster + Partners

Mace

Stantec

atkinsréalis

Why Study Urban Design MA at University of Westminster

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Westminster in United Kingdom

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 Urban Design MA at University of Westminster

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time for degree courses. Full-time work is allowed during breaks; no separate work permit is needed.

Is this qualification recognised internationally?

Yes. This course is accredited by Royal Town Planning Institute.

What English language score do I need for this course?

For English proficiency, you can meet the requirements through tests like IELTS (overall score of 6.5) or TOEFL (overall score of 88). Specific score criteria in listening, speaking, reading, and writing may apply across different tests.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as urban designers, city planners, landscape architects, and sustainability consultants.

What will I actually study in this course?

In an increasingly urbanised world, there is growing international demand for urban design graduates. This course will equip you with the knowledge and skills you need to participate in this rapidly expanding profession. Urban design involves shaping the physical setting for life in cities. The pace of urban change, and the challenge of making cities efficient, sustainable and meaningful, demands creative solutions to design and management. The urban design courses at Westminster provide a

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Urban Design MA course has an intake in September each year. Be sure to check your application deadlines to secure your place.
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