Cardiff University

Taught through an integrated studio model where theory, research, and creative practice are fused into a single learning experience, the MA Urban Design at Cardiff University offers a robust pathway into professional design and planning practice while equipping you with the critical, creative, and analytical skills needed to address the complex challenges facing contemporary cities and regions. 

Recognised as a Royal Town Planning Institute specialist-accredited degree you'll be taught the foundational concepts, analytical tools, and digital design skills required for advanced urban design practice, with support to progress confidently through our design-led curriculum. 

You'll learn to conduct advanced urban design analysis, applying spatial concepts, frameworks, and techniques to interpret urban form and activity across multiple scales. You'll also develop the ability to communicate design insights visually and textually through high-quality drawings, diagrams, maps, written analysis, and graphic outputs.

Building on this analytical foundation, you'll explore how to develop spatially grounded, contextually sensitive design interventions, testing ideas through iterative studio work and using precedent study, evaluation, and comparative analysis to inform and refine your work.

Experiential learning enriches the programme. You'll benefit from site visits, practitioner-led workshops, and an international field study visit, enabling you to engage directly with real-world design contexts and gain insight into innovative approaches to urban transformation across different cultural settings.