Interested in becoming an urban designer?
The scope of the job
Urban design offers a great deal of variety. Throughout your career you can work around the world; for yourself and for others; and in the public sector (for a local authority, for example) and in the private sector (for a consultancy or a developer, for example). Day-to-day activities are very diverse, and there is huge scope to specialise and learn new skills.
Qualifications required
A university undergraduate degree in any subject relating to the built environment or spatial design is a good start. You may then choose to take a postgraduate course in urban design or a related subject. These are offered by universities across the UK. Courses range from accessible certificate programmes to comprehensive masters degrees.
Best subjects to study
Architecture, town planning, landscape architecture, geography, engineering.
Number of years to qualify
Minimum three years undergraduate and one year postgraduate. Work experience is also highly recommended before or during postgraduate study. Maximum eight years.
Typical starting salary (London)
£20,000
Typical salary after five years
£35-40,000
Typical hours
35-45 hours per week
Proportion of time spent in office
How much time you spend in the office will depend on how you develop your role. On average you can expect to spend around 70 per cent of your week in the office and 30 per cent on site or with clients, for example.
Overseas travel
Urban designers working for private sector consultancies may work on overseas projects. China is an expanding market, for example.
Opportunities for part-time work
There are many opportunities for working part-time and also for working freelance.
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