MSc Accounting and Finance
Cardiff University’s MSc in Accounting and Finance is designed to develop advance...
MSc International Planning and Urban Design
Cardiff
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The MSc in International Planning and Urban Design at Cardiff University offers an innovative and interdisciplinary approach to planning and urban design, preparing students to address the complexities of urbanization and global development. This program equips students with both the theoretical foundations and practical skills needed to design sustainable, livable cities while addressing critical global challenges such as climate change, population growth, and social inequality. With a focus on international and comparative urban planning, students are prepared to work in diverse contexts around the world, making a meaningful impact on urban environments.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the MSc in International Planning and Urban Design blends core modules in urban planning, design, and policy, with specialized courses on sustainable urban development, housing, and infrastructure. Students will engage with topics such as urban regeneration, smart cities, and spatial justice, as well as the integration of environmental and social considerations into urban planning. Key components include hands-on design projects, urban planning simulations, and research-focused dissertations that allow students to explore real-world challenges. The program also offers opportunities for elective modules, giving students the flexibility to tailor their studies to specific interests, such as transportation planning, public health, or climate adaptation strategies.
Research Focus: The program emphasizes critical thinking and research in urban planning and design, encouraging students to engage with contemporary global issues like urban resilience, sustainable development, and equitable urban spaces. Students are exposed to cutting-edge research on topics such as climate change adaptation, urban regeneration, social housing, and the role of public space in fostering community engagement. The research focus encourages students to examine both theoretical frameworks and practical solutions to urban design problems, drawing on interdisciplinary perspectives from fields like geography, sociology, economics, and environmental studies.
Industry Engagement: Cardiff University places a strong emphasis on industry engagement, connecting students with professionals and organizations in the urban planning and design sectors. The program incorporates practical learning experiences through internships, live projects, and collaborations with local authorities, urban design firms, and NGOs. Students have the opportunity to apply their knowledge to real-world projects, developing key skills in urban analysis, stakeholder engagement, and design presentation. The university also invites guest speakers and industry experts to provide insights into emerging trends, technologies, and practices within the urban planning and design fields.
Global Perspective: The MSc in International Planning and Urban Design offers a global perspective on urban development, preparing students to work in diverse cultural, political, and economic contexts. Cardiff University’s international approach is reflected in the program's emphasis on comparative urban studies, where students examine urban challenges and planning solutions from different parts of the world. This global outlook ensures that graduates are equipped to tackle the complex urbanization issues faced by cities in both developed and developing countries. Students also benefit from Cardiff’s extensive international network, which provides opportunities for collaborations and projects with international partners, enriching the learning experience and broadening career opportunities.
Location
Cardiff
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 23450
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 60% or equivalent.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 or 7.0 with no individual component below 6.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 100.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 76.
- Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
Cardiff University offers a range of scholarships to support international students pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate studies. These scholarships are designed to attract high-achieving students from around the world, easing the financial burden and recognizing academic excellence.
Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship: Cardiff University’s Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship is a merit-based award that provides partial funding for exceptional international undergraduate and postgraduate students. This scholarship rewards high academic achievement and study, making it ideal for students with strong academic backgrounds.
Global Wales Postgraduate Scholarship: This scholarship offers substantial funding to international postgraduate students from certain countries, including the USA, India, Vietnam, and EU nations. The scholarship covers part of the tuition fees and is awarded based on academic merit and potential for success.
Chevening Scholarship: Offered in collaboration with the UK government, the prestigious Chevening Scholarship is available to international students who demonstrate leadership potential and academic excellence. The award covers tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, and other allowances, supporting future leaders and influencers in various fields.
Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships: For students from Commonwealth countries, the Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships provide funding for postgraduate students who would otherwise be unable to study in the UK. The scholarship includes full tuition, living expenses, and airfare, ensuring accessibility for students from developing nations.
British Council GREAT Scholarships: Cardiff University partners with the British Council to offer the GREAT Scholarships for students from specific countries, including China, India, Malaysia, and Thailand. These scholarships provide financial assistance for tuition fees and are intended to encourage bright students to pursue postgraduate studies in the UK.
Subject-Specific Scholarships: Certain academic departments at Cardiff University offer additional scholarships tailored to specific fields of study, such as engineering, business, and life sciences. These scholarships provide partial funding and are aimed at attracting talented students to specific programs.
Financial Aid and External Scholarships: In addition to Cardiff University scholarships, students can explore external funding options such as loans, grants, and scholarships provided by their home countries or private organizations. The university’s financial aid office offers guidance to help students find external financial support.
Graduates of the MSc in International Planning and Urban Design from Cardiff University are well-equipped to pursue a variety of impactful careers in urban planning, design, and development. The program’s strong focus on both global perspectives and practical urban solutions opens up a range of opportunities in public, private, and non-profit sectors.
Urban Planner: Graduates can become urban planners, working to design and manage urban spaces to improve their functionality, sustainability, and livability. These roles are available in local government planning departments, consultancy firms, or international urban development agencies.
Urban Designer: Urban designers create detailed plans for the built environment, including streetscapes, public spaces, and urban infrastructure. Graduates can work for design firms, architectural practices, or urban development organizations, contributing to large-scale development projects worldwide.
Sustainability Consultant: Given the growing emphasis on sustainable development, graduates with expertise in urban design and planning can work as sustainability consultants, helping cities reduce their environmental impact, improve energy efficiency, and promote green infrastructure.
Housing and Community Development Officer: Graduates can work in roles focused on housing policy, regeneration, and community development. These positions are often available in governmental agencies or non-governmental organizations focused on improving urban living conditions.
Transport and Mobility Planner: Urban planning increasingly intersects with transportation systems, and graduates can pursue careers in designing and managing urban mobility solutions, such as public transportation networks, cycling infrastructure, and pedestrian-friendly spaces.
Real Estate Development: The knowledge gained in urban planning and design is highly relevant to real estate development, where graduates can work as development managers, project coordinators, or consultants, helping to plan and execute urban development projects, from commercial buildings to mixed-use developments.
Government and Policy Advisor: Graduates can work in governmental agencies or as policy advisors, providing strategic insights and recommendations on urban planning, zoning laws, and regional development policies at the local, national, or international level.
International Development Specialist: The global focus of the MSc in International Planning and Urban Design prepares graduates to work in international development, advising governments or NGOs on urban planning projects aimed at improving infrastructure, housing, and sustainability in developing countries.
Environmental Consultant: With an understanding of sustainable urban design, graduates can work as environmental consultants, helping businesses and governments design eco-friendly urban environments that align with environmental regulations and sustainability goals.
Non-Profit and Advocacy Organizations: Graduates may choose to work for organizations advocating for better urban planning practices, including those focused on housing, transportation, and environmental justice, aiming to improve living conditions in urban areas globally.
