Solving the Problem of Urban Growth.
In an increasingly urbanised world, cities represent both the greatest social, environmental and economic challenges and opportunities for planners and urban designers alike to create more sustainable environments and just societies.
Our new Masters (MSc) in City Planning and Design develops planning research, urban analysis and design skills before allowing you to decide whether to complete an urban design thesis or dissertation. Both of these options can be completed as work-based studies in partnership with external organisations with opportunities for summer placements.
Design vs Planning
In practice, there is a common tension between those developing and interpreting planning policy on the one hand, and the designers of cities on the other. This programme brings these groups together to engage in industry-specific project-based learning.
Flexible Learning Opportunities
You will develop planning research, urban analysis and design skills before deciding whether to complete an urban design thesis or dissertation. Both of these options can be completed as work-based studies with opportunities for summer placements.
Applications for 2022 entry are now open
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Email askEPS@qub.ac.ukWhy choose Queen's
Ranked in the Top 140 Universities in the world for Graduate Prospects
(QS Graduate Employability rankings 2020)
Competitive Fees
Queen’s offers lower tuition fees than many other similarly well-regarded UK universities. (Natwest Student Living Index 2017).
Safe and affordable
Belfast offers the lowest cost of living in the UK and is the safest region in the UK. (Mercer 2016, British Crime Surveys, 2015/16).
Advanced Placement Opportunities
The option of a work placement for the thesis module reflects the local confidence within the planning and urban design sector of the quality of QUB student work. Placements can be in planning offices, architectural practices or with related heritage, environmental or community sector groups.
Career Options
Our graduates end up in leading positions in central and local government and as well as in planning consultancies in the private sector. Some of them have gone on to lead significant environmental campaigns such as opposition to fracking; work with NGOs such as Friends of the Earth; and work with communities to make their neighbourhoods better, such as with disadvantaged groups.
State-of-the-art Facilities
The Planning department has a devoted studio space along with several shared workshop facilities with 3D printers, plotters, laser cutters and traditional model-making equipment. In joining the larger School of the Natural and Built Environment in 2016, Planning students also have access to GIS labs.
Employment Links
Graduate employers include: Belfast City Council, Department for Infrastructure and other public and private sector planning consultancies. Examples of employment: Urban Design and Planning practices, Research institutions, GIS companies, Housing organisations, Community Advocacy Groups, Environmental and Community sector NGOs.