MSc Urban Strategies and Design

The MSc Urban Strategies and Design at Heriot-Watt University is a 1-year long programme designed to teach advanced knowledge in urban strategy and spatial design. This course applies a practice-oriented teaching method that combines academic theory with creative, real-world applications.

You will learn through traditional lectures, seminars, workshops, design studios, and case studies, and conduct a dissertation focused on an urban design issue of your choice.

By the end of this programme, you will have covered key areas such as spatial planning, strategic urban interventions, well-being in the built environment, and urban design theory.

You will also develop skills in research, strategic visioning, analysis, and professional design communication. This, coupled with the opportunity to explore live urban issues and projects, will provide you with an all-around education.

Established in 1821, Heriot-Watt University is situated in Edinburgh, Scotland. It provides undergraduate, graduate, and research-level courses that are accredited in a variety of fields, such as business, engineering, computer science, architecture, design, and the built environment.

Currently, Heriot-Watt has more than 30,000 students. Additionally, they have access to modern campuses with fully furnished, state-of-the-art labs, libraries, and learning areas. The university offers excellent career services, opportunities for international exchange, hands-on learning, and a multicultural setting to support the success of international students.

Here are the standard entry requirements to study the MSc Urban Strategies and Design at Heriot-Watt University:

Grade Requirements

• You should have a UK 2:1 honours degree or its international equivalent in any subject. A background in architecture, urban planning, geography, or related disciplines is beneficial but not required.

English Proficiency 

• Non-native English speakers may need to demonstrate proficiency in the language, typically through an IELTS score of at least 6.5. TOEFL or other equivalents are also allowed.

The tuition fee (2025/2026 session) to study MSc Urban Strategies and Design at Heriot-Watt University is  £31,600.

Heriot-Watt University offers a variety of funding options to its students, including bursaries, and student loans. Some of these are available through the Edinburgh College of Art, such as the ECA Taught Masters Scholarships and regional bursaries for eligible students.

Here are some of the career options you have with an MSc in Urban Strategies and Design at Heriot-Watt University:

• Chartered Structural Engineer
• Urban Planner
• Strategic Designer
• Development Consultant
• Landscape Architect
• NGO/International Development Specialist

To find out more about the application process, speak to one of our trained counsellors.