Urbanisation and Development London School of Economics and Political Science

Overview

The Urbanisation and Development programme at the London School of Economics and Political Science offers a comprehensive examination of urbanism from colonial eras to the modern day. Students explore the complex social, economic, and political processes that drive growth in the developing world. This degree provides the analytical tools necessary to evaluate contemporary urban policies and their real-world impacts.

The curriculum focuses on the relationship between urban environments and development theory, ensuring graduates can assess outcomes across local and international scales. By investigating themes of social justice, ethnicity, and democratic deepening, the course prepares individuals to tackle the challenges of rapidly expanding global cities.

Why Urbanisation and Development at London School of Economics and Political Science?

The Department of Geography and Environment is a world-leading centre for research, ranked second globally in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026. Students benefit from an interdisciplinary environment where academics specialise in economic, urban, and development geography. The university’s location in the heart of London provides a vibrant setting for social science research and professional networking.

The department maintains strong links with prestigious research units, including the Grantham Research Institute on Climate Change and the Environment and LSE London. This connection ensures that teaching is consistently informed by the latest empirical findings and theoretical advancements. Furthermore, the institution has been recognised as University of the Year 2025, reflecting its commitment to academic excellence and student experience.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: GBP 28900 per year
• National fee: GBP 18300 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum consists of core units and a selection of specialist options. Modules may include:

• Global Urbanism
• Dissertation - Urbanisation and Development
• Urban Asia: Cities and Social Change
• Politics of Housing
• Urban Futures
• Urban Research Methods
• Urban Africa
• Politics of Environment and Development
• Urban Transformation

Careers with Urbanisation and Development

Graduates from this programme are highly sought after by international agencies, non-governmental organisations, and civil society groups. Many alumni secure influential roles within the public sector, focusing on policy development and urban planning. The analytical skills gained also support careers in research, consultancy, and further academic study at the doctoral level.

Common employment sectors for graduates include government and policy, financial services, and real estate. Many individuals also find success within NGOs and charities or technical professional activities. The university provides extensive career support, including CV workshops and networking events with top UK employers, to assist students in transitioning into professional roles within the global development sector.