Urban Design

Overview

The Urban Design program at the University of Sydney core units will provide you with an appreciation and understanding of the historical and theoretical dimensions of urbanism and design, urban morphology and the relationship between ecological processes and city form. While design is an important aspect that is at the core of the Diploma and Master's degrees, there is universal recognition that the defining aspects of urban design practice is its integrating role in multidisciplinary teams.  

Students will develop the ability to analyse contexts, define principles and provide guidance for future designers of buildings, landscapes and the public domain. This `indirectdesign aspect of the built environment requires a related but distinct set of skills including facilitation, collaboration and communication in addition to being able to think spatially and communicate visually. These skills are not the exclusive domain of `designersand people from a range of backgrounds and capabilities are welcomed into an urban design program that aims to be multidisciplinary and emulate practice. 

Core units may be complemented with electives that will strengthen your knowledge in related fields: for example, architects can take electives in planning and planners can extend their understanding of architecture. All students can reinforce their knowledge of sustainability. This cross- pollination nurtures more effective urban design and gives you the flexibility to build your course of study around your interests and professional aspirations.

Career Pathways

Over 200 students have graduated from the program to go on to occupy positions in both the private and public sector in cities across Asia, Europe, North and South America, Australia and New Zealand. Graduates are able to bridge the concerns of architecture and planning, think strategically, appreciate scale and qualities of place and communicate urban design principles to a wide range of audiences.