Urban Design MArch

UCL (University College London)

The Urban Design MArch postgraduate degree is a design-oriented and project-based course, with a strong research component. Students work within a studio environment to explore how cities can be improved through innovative design and informed by theoretical research into the special structure of urban form. The Bartlett’s Urban Design MArch focuses on innovative design-led urbanism and global urbanisation challenges. It delves into the study of cities, examining their structure, form and the use of material resources, as well as the multifaceted creative challenges and opportunities presented by global urbanisation and the introduction of computational tools. This distinctive design-led urban master's course aims to bridge the gap between architecture and urbanism, emphasising physical design and radical experimentation alongside rigorous analysis and contemporary theories and methodologies. Students investigate design decisions both strategically and in the context of urban regeneration. The Urban Design degree unites designers and thinkers from around the globe for design-led research into the complexities of urban living. Through design experiments, students explore innovative ideas for cities, addressing urgent contemporary issues such as climate change and the impact of digital technologies such as Artificial Intelligence. Through lectures and workshops, students collaborate with internationally renowned experts in cutting-edge design and, theory, and strategic thinking. They are encouraged to adopt an experimental approach that integrates design techniques, theoretical inquiries, and digital skills using advanced tools and technology. Students also develop an awareness of computation as a cultural condition shaping our culture, and a powerful paradigm for generating design proposals.