The University of Auckland is New?Zealand’s largest and highest?ranked university, known globally for quality teaching, research, and strong support for international students.

 

The Master of Urban Design (MUrbsDes) is a postgraduate Level 9 master’s degree focused on understanding, analysing and designing the physical and social spaces between buildings — that is, how cities and urban environments function, look and feel. Urban designers work with architecture, planning, infrastructure and development to shape better cities and communities.

 

Why Study Master of Urban Design at the University of Auckland

• Skill Development: Learn to analyse complex urban contexts, apply design theory, work creatively and develop solutions for real?world urban challenges.
• Global Perspective: Coursework includes sustainable design practices, infrastructure roles in cities and urban investment, helping prepare you for international careers.
• Professional Practice: Strong emphasis on studio?based projects linked to actual urban issues; design work is complemented with urban theory and planning knowledge.
• City Campus Advantage: Based in Auckland, a dynamic, culturally rich and rapidly growing Pacific city — ideal for studying contemporary urban issues.

 

Programme Structure & Subjects

The Master of Urban Design blends theory, research and practice through studio work and core taught courses.

Core Courses (Examples)

• URBDES 702 – Urban Design Theory and Practice – foundation of urban design thinking.
• URBDES 705 – Emerging Paradigms – concepts shaping future cities.
• URBDES 710 – Urban Design Studio 1 – practical studio design project.
• URBDES 720 – Urban Design Studio 2 – advanced studio work.
• URBPLAN 706 – M?ori Planning Issues – contextual planning knowledge.
• URBPLAN 707 – Urban Economic Development – urban drivers and policy study.

 

Specialisations

The programme is specialised by focus, not subdivided into majors — all students complete a studio?intensive urban design curriculum enriched with planning theory, social context and economic frameworks relevant to contemporary cities.

 

Career Outcomes

Graduates often take roles such as:

• Urban Designer
• City / Regional Planner
• Policy Analyst (urban issues)
• Environmental / Sustainability Planner
• Consultant in Built Environment Projects
• Public Sector (government urban development)

 

Highlights for International Students

• Studio?based learning: Hands?on design experience with real urban challenges.
• Hybrid learning: Lecture courses can be online or on?campus, while design studios are in person.
• Strong built environment focus: Balances aesthetics, infrastructure, planning and policy.
• Auckland setting: Learn in a dynamic Pacific city with diverse cultural and urban design contexts.

 

Visa & Immigration (International Students)

International students must obtain a New?Zealand student visa before beginning their programme. Requirements typically include:

• Confirmed offer of admission
• Evidence of funds sufficient for tuition and living costs
• Health & character requirements
• Proof of English proficiency