Our Master of Urban Design program equips future urban designers with the knowledge and skills needed to meet the challenges of modern urban growth.

Beginning in the summer term, the intensive 11-month curriculum focuses on enhancing your understanding of urban design at all scales—from the neighbourhood block to the regional. The post-professional course of study integrates design studios with courses in urban design history and theory, economics, and public policy. You will have the opportunity to pursue personal interests in the discipline by choosing the focus of your elective courses and research topics.

The intersection of academia and the contemporary profession informs our investigation and practical work. Each year, we explore an urban design theme through active partnership with community and regional organizations. In the design studios, you will collaborate with faculty, stakeholders, and professionals on real-world projects for possible future applications.

Our students benefit from intimate student-faculty ratios. You will work directly with the practicing professionals who developed Vancouver’s urban design successes. You will have the opportunity to see these achievements up close, through weekly tours to landmark places such as the Olympic Village, Granville Island, and Stanley Park. The urban design faculty and affiliates work alongside you throughout the program and in potential collaborations for local sustainable urbanism projects.

As a student at UBC Vancouver, you will have access to world-class facilities and a research library ranked among the best in Canada. As a student in Vancouver, you will have access to the city and region as a living laboratory, further enhancing your studies in urban design.