QS Rank:

8

University College London

London
,United Kingdom

Program Name
MSc in Urban Development Planning

Deadline
June 28th, 2025
Overview

The MSc in Urban Development Planning at the esteemed University College London is meticulously crafted to equip students with the critical skills and knowledge needed to excel in the dynamic field of urban planning and development. Situated in one of the world's most vibrant cities, this program offers an immersive educational experience that blends theoretical frameworks with practical applications. As urban areas continue to expand, the demand for qualified professionals who can navigate the complexities of urban development has never been greater. This program not only addresses the challenges of urbanization but also empowers students to become effective leaders and innovators in the field.
Throughout the 12-month program, students will engage in a diverse curriculum that encompasses a wide array of topics, including urban policy, sustainable development, environmental planning, and community engagement. Core courses such as Urban Development Theories, Spatial Planning Techniques, and Urban Economics ensure that students gain a well-rounded understanding of the factors influencing urban environments. Specialized elective courses allow students to explore specific interests, such as Transport Planning, Housing Policy, and Urban Resilience, providing them with the flexibility to tailor their educational journey to align with their career aspirations.
The faculty associated with the MSc program at UCL is comprised of leading experts and practitioners in the field of urban development. Their extensive experience and research backgrounds enable them to provide students with unique insights into current trends and challenges facing urban areas. The teaching methodology employed is highly interactive, combining lectures, workshops, and fieldwork to engage students actively in their learning process. This hands-on approach fosters critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving abilities, which are essential for success in the urban development sector. Students are also encouraged to participate in research initiatives, allowing them to work closely with faculty members on groundbreaking projects.
The University College London prides itself on offering robust research opportunities and resources for MSc students. With access to high-end facilities, such as state-of-the-art labs and comprehensive libraries, students are well-equipped to conduct rigorous research. UCL is recognized for its commitment to addressing real-world urban challenges through research, and students are encouraged to contribute to this mission. Moreover, the university's strong connections with local government agencies, NGOs, and private sector organizations provide invaluable internship opportunities. These experiences not only enhance students' resumes but also allow them to build a professional network within the urban development community.
As graduates of the MSc in Urban Development Planning, students can anticipate diverse career pathways and excellent job outcomes. The program prepares them for roles such as Town Planner, Urban Designer, Urban Planner, Climate Change Analyst, and Design Manager. With a graduation rate of 94% and a median base salary of £48,000, graduates are well-positioned to secure rewarding positions in various sectors, including public policy, sustainable development, and urban design. Furthermore, testimonials from alumni reflect the program's impact on their careers and highlight the skills they gained, which have been instrumental in their professional success.
Why Study Urban Development Planning at University College London
- A highly respected program ranked among the top in the world for urban planning.
- Diverse class profile with 53% international student representation, fostering a multicultural learning environment.
- Access to expert faculty members who are leaders in the field, offering mentorship and research collaboration opportunities.
- Robust internship programs and partnerships with industry leaders, ensuring students gain practical experience.
- Comprehensive curriculum designed to address contemporary urban challenges and policy issues.
- A commitment to sustainability and resilience, preparing students to contribute to eco-friendly urban practices.
To apply for the MSc in Urban Development Planning, students must meet specific application requirements. Candidates are required to provide a Statement of Purpose, Resume, and both Academic and Professional Letters of Recommendation. Moreover, applicants must submit their transcripts and proof of English language proficiency, with a minimum IELTS score of 6.5 or a TOEFL score of 92. The application fee is set at £90, and the deadline for submission is June 28th, 2025.
In summary, the MSc in Urban Development Planning at University College London provides an exceptional educational experience for those passionate about shaping sustainable urban futures. With a comprehensive curriculum, exceptional faculty, and extensive research opportunities, students are well-prepared to make a meaningful impact in the field of urban development. Whether aspiring to work in government, private industry, or non-profit organizations, graduates of this program will be equipped with the skills and knowledge to navigate the complexities of urban planning and development successfully.

Total Tuition Fees
$19,300

Duration
12 Months

Median Salary
$48,000
Ranking
#16
US World and News Report
#18
The World University Rankings
#8
QS World University Rankings

Intake
Fall ( Sept - Nov )
Class Profile

Average Age
27

Average Work Experience
3 Years
Diversity
North America:
5%Africa:
2%Others:
6%UK:
60%Asia:
10%South America:
2%EU:
15%Career Outcomes

Median Earnings After Graduation
$48,000 / year

Graduation Rate
94%
Prospective Job Roles
Town Planner
Urban Designer
Urban Planner
Climate Change Analyst
Design Manager
Top recruiters





Eligibility Criteria
English Proficiency Tests
IELTS
6.5
TOEFL
92
Application Requirements
Here's everything you need to know to ensure a complete and competitive application—covering the key documents and criteria for a successful submission.

Application Fee: 90
Transcript
Statement of Purpose
Passport
Resume
IELTS
Professional LOR
Academic LOR
Application Deadlines
Fall | Jun 28, 2025 |
Fees and Funding

Tuition Fees
$19,300 / year

Overall Cost
$36,300 / year
Funding Options
Department Funding
FAQs
- The UCL Global Scholarships programme supports international students who are from lower income backgrounds. Our goal is to promote access to study at UCL so that our student body remains diverse. These scholarships provide support for living costs and/or tuition fees for the duration of a degree programme
- Studying urban planning allows you to develop specialist knowledge in town and regional planning, providing you with a range of professional skills such as: design and place making. knowledge of planning processes, law and housing policy. finance and policy development
- Urban Planning focuses on learning about the development of cities or towns. Students learn how to be responsible for developing new building zones as well as finding new purposes for abandoned ones. They collect and interpret data and use it to come up with suggestions, plans, and possible solutions
- 1 in 3 applicants to this programme received an offer.
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