MSc Urban Strategies and Design

The MSc in Urban Strategies and Design focuses on urban strategies and design responses to modern urban changes. It encourages a comprehensive approach to delivering socially sustainable urban transformations, addressing issues in both the Global North and South. The program is suitable for graduates from various disciplines, including geography, sociology, architecture, landscape architecture, political science, anthropology, and economics. ​

Curriculum: Students undertake a combination of compulsory and optional courses delivered by both the University of Edinburgh and Heriot-Watt University. Core courses cover topics such as urban design theories, methodologies, and the socio-economic and political processes influencing urban environments. Optional courses allow for specialization in areas like emergent cities or cultural landscapes, particularly for those interested in urban issues in the Global South. The program culminates in a dissertation on an urban-themed topic of the student's choice, supported by the unique urban laboratory that the city of Edinburgh provides. ​

Research Focus: The program emphasizes interdisciplinary research, integrating approaches from engineering to human geography. It addresses the complexities of urban restructuring in the Global North and rapid urban expansion in the Global South. Students engage in critical analysis and projective components, testing hypotheses through urban projects that may result in design proposals, policy development, or governance strategies. ​

Industry Engagement: Students benefit from exposure to guest speakers from policy and practice, seminars, excursions, and group activities supported by online resources. These interactions provide insights into real-world applications of urban strategies and design, enhancing employability in various sectors, including architecture, planning, landscape architecture, and development planning. Graduates find opportunities locally and internationally, in public, private, voluntary, and international development sectors. 

Global Perspective: The program acknowledges the interconnectedness of urban transformations worldwide, encouraging analysis from both Western and Global South perspectives. Edinburgh's rich planning history and contemporary international links with urban-focused institutions provide a strong platform for student-led, location-based dissertations. This global outlook prepares graduates to address urban challenges in diverse cultural and geographical contexts.

Postgraduate entry requirements:

1. Academic Qualifications: Prospective postgraduate applicants to the University of Edinburgh are typically required to have achieved a minimum academic qualification of approximately 60%, based on their previous academic achievements and qualifications.  

2. English Language Proficiency:  

   • IELTS (International English Language Testing System): Minimum overall score of 7.0, with at least 6.0 in each component (Listening, Reading, Speaking, Writing).

   • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): Minimum score of 100 on the internet-based test (iBT), with at least 20 in each component (Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing).

   • PTE (Pearson Test of English): Minimum overall score of 70, with at least 59 in each component (Listening, Reading, Speaking, Writing).

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 is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

The University of Edinburgh offers a range of scholarships and funding opportunities specifically designed to support international students pursuing undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs. These scholarships aim to promote diversity, academic excellence, and global engagement. 

Global Scholarships: The University of Edinburgh offers Global Scholarships to outstanding international undergraduate students. These scholarships provide financial assistance towards tuition fees and living expenses, enabling talented students from around the world to access quality education at Edinburgh.

Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships: International postgraduate students pursuing research-based programs (Ph.D., MSc by Research) can apply for Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships. These scholarships provide full or partial funding for tuition fees and living expenses during the research program.

School-specific Scholarships: Some academic schools and departments within the university offer scholarships targeting international students in specific disciplines or programs. These scholarships may be merit-based or need-based and vary in terms of eligibility criteria and funding amounts.

Commonwealth Scholarships: The University of Edinburgh participates in various Commonwealth scholarship schemes, providing opportunities for students from Commonwealth countries to study in the UK. These scholarships are funded by the UK government and other organizations.

External Funding Sources: International students are encouraged to explore external funding sources, such as government scholarships, private organizations, and international foundations, to support their studies at the University of Edinburgh.

It is important to note that scholarship availability, criteria, and application deadlines may change from year to year.

Graduating from the MSc Urban Strategies and Design program at the University of Edinburgh opens up a diverse range of career opportunities in urban planning, design consultancy, policy-making, and research.  

Urban Planner/Designer: Graduates can pursue roles as urban planners or designers in public sector planning departments, private architectural firms, or urban design consultancies. They contribute to the development of urban design schemes, masterplans, and regeneration projects, applying their knowledge of design principles, spatial analysis, and community engagement to create livable, sustainable, and inclusive urban environments.

Urban Policy Analyst/Researcher: With their understanding of urban governance, policy frameworks, and socio-economic dynamics, graduates can work as policy analysts or researchers for government agencies, non-profit organizations, or research institutes. They analyze urban policies, evaluate their effectiveness, and propose evidence-based recommendations to address urban challenges such as housing affordability, transportation planning, environmental sustainability, and social inclusion.

Community Development Officer: Graduates may pursue roles as community development officers or project managers, working with local communities, neighborhood associations, or grassroots organizations to empower residents and facilitate participatory planning processes. They engage in community outreach, stakeholder consultation, and capacity-building initiatives, fostering collaboration and collective action to address community needs and aspirations.

Sustainability Consultant: Given the growing emphasis on sustainability and climate resilience in urban development, graduates can work as sustainability consultants or environmental planners, advising clients on sustainable building design, green infrastructure, renewable energy integration, and climate adaptation strategies. They conduct environmental assessments, develop sustainability plans, and support clients in achieving green building certifications and carbon reduction targets.

Policy Advisor/Advocate: Graduates may pursue roles as policy advisors or advocates for non-governmental organizations (NGOs), advocacy groups, or think tanks, influencing urban policy agendas and advocating for social justice, environmental protection, and equitable urban development. They conduct policy analysis, engage in advocacy campaigns, and mobilize public support for policy reforms that promote fairness, equity, and resilience in urban governance.

Academic/Researcher: Some graduates choose to pursue further studies or academic careers, undertaking doctoral research or teaching positions in universities or research institutions. They contribute to the advancement of knowledge in urban studies, urban planning theory, and design research, conducting original research projects and publishing scholarly articles in academic journals.