Urban Innovation and Policy MPA

UCL (University College London)

This MPA is designed for professionals aiming to lead urban policy change and understand the innovations reshaping cities as economic, environmental, social and physical systems. You’ll gain practical experience focusing on real-world policy challenges whilst working alongside an external partner organisation, preparing you to graduate with the skills and confidence needed for sought-after roles. Cities are recognised as critical levers for social, economic, and environmental change. They are home to more than half the world’s population and account for nearly seventy percent of its carbon emissions. This MPA will help you to develop the skills and expertise required to work in the public, private, or third sectors, helping to find solutions to major urban challenges. You’ll explore a range of challenges, from climate resilience to inequality and innovations in housing and transport provision. Within each challenge, we will tackle key questions such as how to coordinate the roles of central and local governments, private firms, and NGOs, and how to empower the voices of communities and local leaders to ensure innovations genuinely meet local needs. You’ll develop a unique mix of technical and policy expertise, working alongside academics and leading practitioners, to become a future leader capable of tackling complex policy issues. This is a professional programme perfect for graduates or professionals with aspirations to lead the transition to more prosperous, just and sustainable cities, whether working in the public, private or third sector. The programme will appeal to students who want to better understand the policy processes that underpin technological change and innovation in cities.