MSc Urban Design & Planning

This program offers an interdisciplinary approach, covering various aspects of urban design, planning theory, policy, and sustainable development. It aims to equip students with the expertise needed to create liveable, sustainable, and inclusive urban environments.

Curriculum: The curriculum encompasses modules on urban design principles, spatial planning, environmental sustainability, transportation, social inclusion, heritage conservation, and urban regeneration. It involves both theoretical teachings and practical studio-based projects.

Research Focus: Students engage in research projects focusing on urban issues such as sustainable development, community participation, urban revitalization, and the impact of urbanization on the environment.

Industry Engagement: UCD collaborates with urban planning agencies, architectural firms, local governments, and community groups. Students gain practical experience through internships, site visits, and collaborative projects, enhancing their understanding of real-world urban challenges.

Global Perspective: The program explores urban challenges on a global scale, examining diverse urban contexts and learning from international case studies. It addresses issues related to globalization, urbanization, and cultural diversity in urban settings.

Postgraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: For admission to postgraduate programs at UCD, the general entry requirement is a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in the student's previous academic qualifications, such as a bachelor's degree.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: Overall 6.5 or 7.0 with no individual band lower than 6.0.
• TOEFL: Overall score of 90 with no section below Listening 19, Speaking 19, Writing 21, and Reading 19.
• PTE: Overall score of 63 with a minimum of 59 in each section.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): Overall score of 120 with a minimum of 110.

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

Work experience: Some postgraduate courses may require relevant work experience in the field.

It's important to note that entry requirements can vary by program and may change over time. Additionally, some programs may have additional requirements, such as interviews, portfolios, or work experience.

UCD offers various scholarships and financial aid options specifically designed to support international students pursuing their education at the university. These scholarships aim to recognize academic excellence, promote diversity, and alleviate the financial burden for deserving students. 

UCD Global Excellence Graduate Scholarship: This merit-based scholarship is awarded to high-achieving international students applying for eligible full-time master's programs. It covers a percentage of the tuition fees for the duration of the program.

UCD Global Undergraduate Scholarship: Intended for non-EU students, this scholarship is based on academic performance and offers financial assistance towards tuition fees for the duration of undergraduate studies.

Regional Graduate Scholarships: UCD provides scholarships targeted at students from specific regions or countries, encouraging diversity and supporting talented individuals from those areas.

UCD Ad Astra Academic Scholarship: This prestigious scholarship is awarded to outstanding students with exceptional academic achievements and offers financial support along with enrichment opportunities.

Sports Scholarships: For students who excel in sports, UCD offers scholarships to support their academic pursuits while actively participating in sports at a competitive level.

UCD Research Scholarships: These scholarships are available to support international students pursuing research-based postgraduate programs, providing funding and opportunities to engage in groundbreaking research initiatives.

Government and External Scholarships: UCD collaborates with various governments, organizations, and foundations worldwide to offer additional scholarship opportunities for international students based on specific criteria and partnerships.

The MSc Urban Design & Planning program at University College Dublin provides graduates with a diverse skill set that opens up various career paths in urban planning, design, policy analysis, sustainability, and community engagement. These career options enable graduates to contribute positively to creating more livable, sustainable, and inclusive urban environments.

Urban Planner: Graduates of the MSc Urban Design & Planning program can pursue careers as urban planners. They are responsible for designing and implementing plans to create sustainable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing urban spaces. They work closely with local governments, communities, and developers to ensure that urban projects meet the needs of the population while considering environmental and social impacts.

Urban Designer: Professionals in this role focus on the physical design and layout of urban spaces. They work in architectural firms or urban design consultancies, dealing with the aesthetics, functionality, and overall appeal of urban landscapes, streetscapes, and public spaces.

Policy Analyst: Graduates may work as policy analysts, assessing and developing urban policies. They analyze existing policies, propose improvements, and contribute to the creation of effective urban development strategies. These professionals often work in governmental organizations or research institutions.

Sustainability Consultant: In this role, individuals can work with various organizations, including architectural firms, urban planning agencies, or environmental consultancies. They ensure that urban development projects adhere to sustainability principles, focusing on eco-friendly design, energy efficiency, and resource conservation.

Community Development Officer: Professionals in this field work closely with communities to engage them in the urban planning process. They facilitate community participation, gather feedback, and ensure that community needs and perspectives are integrated into urban development plans.