Urban Planning

Entry requirements

2:1, or equivalent, in a cognate subject but there is the possibility of entry with a 2:2, or equivalent, with relevant experience.

Months of entry

September

Course content

The core aim of this programme is to train the next generation of urban planners who will need to adopt a multi- and inter-disciplinary approach in order to address contemporary challenges and solve associated problems faced by urban regions.

MSc Urban Planning is accredited by the United Arab Emirates Ministry of Education

Drawing upon the University's world leading expertise in Planning, Environmental Science, Public Health and Critical Urban Studies, the programme will provide the necessary understanding, skills and knowledge that planners in government, private enterprises, NGOs and communities will need to provide innovative solutions to complex issues that impact upon a diverse range of stakeholders.

The key areas of understanding and skills that students will develop during the programme include:

Challenges urban areas face in the delivery of sustainable, inclusive and healthy places and what measures can be put in place to mitigate these

Opportunities and threats posed to urban areas by globalising trends, new technologies and the rapid rate of societal change

Impact of urban growth on the natural environment such as atmospheric pollution, water quality, plastic pollution etc., and the various approaches that are under development to mitigate related pressures. Within this area as well an understanding of the approaches that urban areas are taking to ensure post-carbon futures

Changing living patterns in urban areas, the role and nature of migration, social polarisation, social disadvantage and spatial fragmentation, and how the needs of diverse communities can be met

These themes will be pursued across all modules and together provide an holistic approach to the challenges of contemporary urban planning. To enable this, a wide range of teaching approaches will be utilised such as lectures, seminars, practitioner talks, site visits, field work and studio work – an emphasis will be placed on teaching that engages with the ‘real world’ as much as possible, utilising Dubai as an urban laboratory. Reflecting this, assessments will be authentic and involve living case studies – this will enhance not only understanding and skills but also employability.

Information for international students

English language requirements