Leeds Beckett University

Urban Design at Leeds Beckett recognises architecture and the city as a collective form of knowledge. It brings together academics and professionals from a range of backgrounds who share a passion for improving the design of our urban environments.

Whether you have studied planning, geography, architecture, landscape architecture, or any other design discipline, this course will enable you to network with practitioners ranging from planners, architects and landscape architects, to highway engineers and urban designers in order to explore the role of urban design in the city. 

Master of Arts Urban Design students learn alongside Master of Architecture, MA Landscape Architecture, and MA Planning students. In this interdisciplinary learning environment, you will develop your ability to work as part of a team whilst making a significant contribution to innovative designs. The course employs a research-by-design approach to understanding regional, national, and international cities. In exploring the development and resolution of projects you will gain a deep understanding of the formation of the city within diverse political, economic, social, and cultural contexts.

You will study the latest methods and design theories relating to urban environments. During your advanced modules, you will have the option to choose a design-focused research project which addresses alternatives to mainstream paths and ethical concerns, or you may wish to take the research pathway looking at urban themes in connection with interdisciplinary practice, environmental sustainability, social sciences and design.

There will be opportunities to attend activities such as the Architecture Open Lecture Series, symposia, workshops and interdisciplinary related events alongside architecture and landscape students. You will find beneficial our links across the industry, from local authority planning departments to urban design and landscape architecture practices. The course is also accredited by the Royal Town Planning Institute and will prepare you for professional membership.

For more detailed information on the MA Urban Design course, please refer to the following links: https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/courses/urban-design-ma/ and https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/blogs/leeds-school-of-arts/2021/01/ma-urban-design/