MSc in Urban Strategies and Design, Heriot Watt University

Edinburgh,

12 Months

Check Eligibility

About this course

MSc Urban Strategies and Design at Heriot-Watt University, delivered jointly with the Edinburgh College of Art at the University of Edinburgh, explores strategies and engagement with urban spaces from contemporary, socio-political, and economic perspectives, with a focus on design. This full-time, on-campus program lasts for one year, starting every September in Edinburgh. It is designed for graduates from disciplines like geography, architecture, urban planning, and economics, aiming to develop their understanding of socially sustainable urban transformations. Students will study diverse social, economic, and political processes shaping modern urban environments, acquiring tools to propose projects across different scales. The program emphasizes a comprehensive teaching approach, drawing from expertise at both institutions, and aims to prepare students for careers in urban design, development planning, and related fields both locally and internationally.

Why this course is highly recommended

This program is ideal if you're interested in pursuing a career in urban design and development planning, especially within socially sustainable urban transformations. It offers a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach supported by research-active academics from leading institutions, including links with industry and policy advisors. The joint delivery by Heriot-Watt University and the University of Edinburgh’s Edinburgh College of Art ensures students benefit from diverse expertise, high-quality facilities, and connections with the Global Urban Research Collaborative, which focuses on improving living conditions in vulnerable urban settlements worldwide.

Specialisation

The course develops a deep understanding of urban strategies and design considering social, political, and economic contexts. It enhances skills in analyzing and engaging with contemporary urban environments, focusing on sustainable development, urban policies, and strategic interventions. The program also emphasizes the multi-disciplinary nature of urban planning, blending theoretical knowledge with practical skills to propose innovative urban projects at various scales.

Course fees

Application fees

1st year tuition fees

29.77L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Applicants should meet the standard entry requirements specified by the University of Edinburgh. The program is open to graduates from backgrounds such as geography, architecture, urban planning, and economics. Further details on specific entry criteria and English language requirements are managed by the University of Edinburgh.

English language test

PTE

TOEFL

100

IELTS

DUOLINGO

Career prospects

Graduates of this master’s program can look forward to careers in urban design, development planning, and related sectors, both locally and internationally. Opportunities are available across public, private, voluntary, and international development organizations. The program equips students with multidisciplinary skills and knowledge to contribute to socially sustainable urban initiatives and innovative urban projects at various scales.

FAQs

How do I apply for this course?

Applications are processed by the University of Edinburgh, and details on how to apply can be found on their programme page.

Are there any scholarships available?

Yes, there are scholarships and bursaries, including a specific opportunity for students domiciled or working in the South-East of Scotland, and many other fee and stipend scholarships from the university.