MSc in Urban Design and International Planning University of Manchester

Explore the relationship between urban design and planning with an international focus, by studying this accredited master's.

Course overview

• Study a course fully accredited by the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI).
• Explore the relationship between the design and planning of contemporary cities.
• Develop and employ applied urban design practice skills/techniques through the production of detailed design analyses and proposals across multiple scales.
• Explore global real-life planning and development issues in-person on an international field trip.

MSc Urban Design and International Planning provide a specialist understanding of the relationship between urban design and planning by focusing on issues that are of international significance.

It will provide you with the core knowledge and competencies needed to become a chartered planner specialising in urban design and international planning.

It will also provide you with the technology applied skills and knowledge to practice as a professional urban designer across multiple scales and contexts.

The course is fully accredited by the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) and is an Educational Member of the Urban Design Group as part of the Recognised Practitioner in Urban Design pathway.

Coursework and assessment

Assessment methods are largely individual-based but may also involve some elements of group work and submission.

You are continually assessed via a range of methods including essays, portfolios, presentations, and topic papers.

All design-focused work is presented at A1 and includes crit presentations, peer-review, design defences, and 3D physical model making.

You will be required to submit a dissertation of approximately 15,000 words that can focus on crucial planning debates in an international context, urban design debates, or a combination.

Alternatively, you may choose to complete a design dissertation that includes a 3000-word Technical Report, eight A1 boards showcasing your design and process, a 3D physical model, and an oral design defence.

• Allow you to tailor the course to your professional interests by choosing from numerous optional course units.
• Provide you with the practical skills to deliver comprehensive urban design proposals across multiple scales and within differing international contexts.
• Explore the relationship between urban design and planning within international settings.
• Provide you with an international perspective on overseas fieldwork.

This course has been specifically designed to equip you for professional practice in urban design and planning in a fast-moving international market.

Opportunities will arise in both the private and public sectors across global consultancies, development companies, government departments and agencies, and third sector organisations.

All student work is presented to a wide range of local, national and international employers at the end of year Manchester Urban Design LAB (MUD-Lab) showcase event, the best student work included in an annually published yearbook, and each student will develop a personal urban design portfolio to enhance their employment opportunities through the showcasing of their technical and applied design skills and knowledge.

More generally, Planning and Environmental Management graduates are popular with employers, particularly in consultancy, where the ability to analyse and propose policies and implement strategies is vital.

After London, Manchester hosts the largest number of planning and environmental consultancies in the UK.

Our graduates have gone on to successful careers in areas including environmental management and consultancy, urban planning and design, real estate development, urban and regional development policy, central and local government, international development, energy and water, non-governmental organisations, and research.

Top employers of our Planning and Environmental Management graduates include AECOM, Arup, Atkins, BP, EDF Energy, the Environment Agency, Jacobs, Rolls-Royce, Turley, Gillespies, and Barton Willmore.

If you decide not to follow a vocational career, your wide knowledge base and transferable skills in problem-solving, strategic thinking, teamwork, creativity and communication fit what most employers are seeking.