Cookie policy

By clicking on or navigating the site, you agree to allow us to collect information on and off Studee as outlined in our cookie policy.

Home

    Study urban design abroad

    An in-depth guide to studying urban design as an international student.

    Find urban design programs

    Explore urban design programs abroad

    See other programs in urban design

    Urban design degrees abroad

    With more people living and working in cities than ever before, the global demand for urban designers has skyrocketed. Urban designers are responsible for shaping the arrangement of urban spaces and facilities so that they’re safe, convenient, and aesthetically pleasing.

    You’ll learn how to devise urban spaces that are fit for purpose and meet the needs of citizens. As well as studying the theory and processes behind effective urban design, you’ll put what you’ve learned into practice by working on real-world briefs. You’ll examine contemporary issues in the sector, like efficiency, sustainability, and overpopulation, and offer creative solutions to manage these challenges.

    Studying abroad will take your knowledge of urban design to the next level. Not only will you get to experience some of the world’s most beautiful towns and cities, but you’ll also learn how to modify your designs according to different geographical landscapes, environmental conditions, structural requirements, and population needs.

    Urban design program structure

    It’s possible to study urban design as a three or four-year bachelor’s degree, but these programs are offered at a limited number of universities. If you choose to study as an undergraduate in the US, you’ll declare a major in urban design after the second year of your four-year degree.

    You’re much more likely to find master’s programs in urban design. To be accepted onto a master’s course, you must already have a bachelor’s degree in a related discipline, like architecture or town planning. You can study full-time over one year, or part-time over two.

    If you’re eager to further build your knowledge, MPhil and PhD programs are offered at several institutions. You’ll conduct a piece of research that contributes to the academic study of urban planning over several years.

    You’ll be taught through a combination of lectures, seminars, tutorials, workshops, design studios, and field trips. Assessment methods include design projects, presentations, essays, and reports.

    The content of your program will be determined by the university and elective modules you choose. However, most institutions cover these core units:

    • Urban design processes
    • Urban design thinkers
    • Urban policy and planning
    • Environmental sustainability
    • Historic and modern architecture
    • Public management
    • Research methods and techniques
    • Contemporary challenges and debates in urban design

    Best countries to study urban design

    Best universities to study urban design

    See all universities offering urban design programs

    How to study urban design abroad

    1. University & program search

      Find the right program for you and your career aspirations

    2. Application guidance

      We'll get you to the right place to start your application

    3. Visa & travel advice

      Get help after application, all the way to your first day at university

    Our team of advisors is ready to support you at every step of your study abroad journey.
    Our services are 100% free for students like you because we're funded by universities.

    Start your search Get free advice

    Urban design study abroad programs

    Urban design graduate programs

    Master's in urban design

    • false

      Urban Design - MUD University of Auckland, New Zealand

      Program type
      Master's
      Duration
      1 year
      Annual tuition fee
      30,960 USD

      Fee in university's local currency 44,526 NZD

      Start date
      July, February
      Show program overview about Urban Design
    • false

      Urban Design & Planning - MSc University College Dublin, Ireland

      Program type
      Master's
      Duration
      1 year
      Annual tuition fee
      23,577 USD

      Fee in university's local currency 19,900 EUR

      Start date
      September
      Show program overview about Urban Design & Planning
    • false

      Urban Design - MUD American University of Beirut, Lebanon

      Program type
      Master's
      Duration
      2 years
      Annual tuition fee
      19,710 USD

      Fee in university's local currency 19,710 USD

      Start date
      January, August
      Show program overview about Urban Design
    • false

      Urban Design - MUD Arizona State University, USA

      Program type
      Master's
      Duration
      2 years
      Annual tuition fee
      29,168 USD

      Fee in university's local currency 29,168 USD

      Start date
      August
      Show program overview about Urban Design
    • false

      Urban Design (by coursework) - MSc RMIT University, Australia

      Program type
      Master's
      Duration
      2 years
      Annual tuition fee
      30,794 USD

      Fee in university's local currency 41,820 AUD

      Start date
      February, July
      Show program overview about Urban Design (by coursework)
    See all master's degrees in urban design

    Future urban design careers

    As an urban design graduate, you’ll have the knowledge and tools to launch your career in almost any corner of the world.

    Your eye for detail, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork skills will be transferable to countless roles across public, private, and voluntary sectors, but here are some of the positions you’d be most suited to:

    • Urban designer
    • Town/city planner
    • Politician
    • Landscape architect
    • Housing officer
    • Transport planner
    • Planning and development surveyor
    • Sustainability consultant

    If you’re unsure of what direction to head in after graduation, drop into your university’s careers office. They can help you map out your ambitions, find work experience, and write your resume.