In the face of rapid urban change, RMIT University has launched a new Master of Urban Design degree to help address the critical issues facing cities locally and globally.

With applications now open for the July mid-year intake, Urban Design will focus on establishing innovative techniques for design and practice, advancing the role of design in shaping the future form and performance of cities.

Taking an international approach, the program will have students travelling to Vietnam and Spain for intensive studios.

Gretchen Wilkins, program director, says smart urban design was the key to confronting the critical issues affecting cities in Australia and around the world.

“Issues such as climate change, population shifts, contemporary workplaces, and transformations in industry, technology and infrastructure are all having a great impact on urban living.

“The Master of Urban Design has been developed to help designers creatively integrate their expertise with other urban disciplines,” Wilkins says.

“With more people living in cities than ever before, approaching urban design innovatively and promoting alternative models for future city-building is vital.”

In the Master of Urban Design program at RMIT a studio-based, multi-disciplinary environment will be provided to engage the issues confronting cities through project-based work.

Projects are curated around key sites of urban change locally and globally, and engage with the professional and community networks invested in their future. Intensive studios take place at RMIT’s campuses and locations in Melbourne, Barcelona, and Ho Chi Minh City. 

The two/four-year (full time/part time) program aims to nurture designers who are engaged in innovative approaches to their practice.

For more information, or to attend the Master of Urban Design presentation at the RMIT Mid-year Expo, see here.

What: Master of Urban Design Presentation at RMIT Mid-year Expo

When: Tuesday, 28 May, 6pm-6.30pm 

Where: RMIT University Storey Hall, 336 Swanston St, Melbourne