Master of Urban Design (MUrbDes)

Overview

Avoiding messy and inefficient urban growth, infrastructure constraints, social disparity and poor urban design were among the issues highlighted for urgent attention by the 2007 Royal Commission. Among the suggested actions outlined in the New Zealand Urban Design Protocol was a need to address urban design skill shortages throughout the country. The School of Architecture and Planning has stepped up to this challenge, offering the Master of Urban Design (MUrbDes) – the only such degree in New Zealand.

If you have a bachelors degree in architecture (BArch), planning or landscape architecture, a masters degree in architecture (MarchProf), planning practice or another relevant qualification, the MUrbDes offers you the opportunity to develop advanced knowledge, techniques and skills for the analysis and design of urban environments. You will study urban design theory, principles and practices, sustainable development futures, the role of physical and social infrastructure in cities, and the economic context of urban investment and development.

A major component of the programme is studio-based project work, which you will undertake in the context of urban development in Auckland. Recent projects have included the impact of the western rail corridor on adjacent suburbs, and the development of the city's Wynyard Quarter.

You will graduate with a good understanding of the ecological, social and economic conditions of cities, and a sound knowledge of key principles that underpin good urban places and spaces. You will be well equipped to pursue a career as an urban designer or as a leader and manager of urban design processes, in both public and private contexts.

^{Important: This is not a professionally accredited degree and will not prepare you for professional registration.}

For more detail, please see the University Calendar, held in the University Library; or you can purchase one from the University Bookshop or view online.

University Calendar

Highlights

• Studio-based learning environment focussed on issue-based projects.
• Informed by research and leading urban design practictioners.
• Builds professional knowledge and skills relevant to a range of employment opportunities.

Further study

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Applying for admission

How to apply
Scholarship opportunities
Important dates

More information

NICAI Student Centre
Level 2, Building 421
(Architecture and Planning Building)
26 Symonds Street, Auckland
Email: info-creative@auckland.ac.nz

For general enquiries, please call:
The University of Auckland Student Information Centre
Phone: 0800 61 62 65

For specific information on the MUrbDes programme, please contact:
Prof Errol Haarhoff
Programme Leader
Phone: +64 9 373 7599 ext 88629