Urban Strategies and Design Heriot-Watt University

Overview

The Urban Strategies and Design programme at Heriot-Watt University is delivered jointly with the Edinburgh College of Art at the University of Edinburgh to provide a comprehensive multidisciplinary education. This unique collaboration allows students to engage with diverse social, economic, and political processes that shape the contemporary built environment. By combining the expertise of two world-leading institutions, the programme offers a robust framework for proposing innovative urban projects at various scales.

Students benefit from a teaching approach that emphasises socially sustainable urban transformations and the intelligent use of data. The curriculum is designed to bridge the gap between theoretical urban strategy and practical design implementation.

Why Urban Strategies and Design at Heriot-Watt University?

Heriot-Watt University is ranked 1st in the UK for Building according to The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026. Students gain access to research-active academics from The Urban Institute and the Institute for Social Policy, Housing, Equalities Research, ensuring learning is informed by the latest industry developments. The partnership with the University of Edinburgh provides an enriched environment with access to extensive facilities and policy liaison expertise.

The programme also maintains strong links with the Global Urban Research Collaborative, a community dedicated to improving living conditions in vulnerable settlements worldwide. This connection provides students with insights into international development and the rapidly urbanising world. Furthermore, the School of Energy, Geoscience, Infrastructure and Society is a leading UK institution for multidisciplinary research, fostering a collaborative atmosphere for aspiring urban professionals.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: GBP 33200 per year
• National fee: GBP 14810 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum covers essential aspects of spatial planning and urban theory. Modules may include:

• Spatial Planning
• Strategic Spatial Vision Project
• Urban Design Theory
• Urban Design for Health and Wellbeing
• Urban Project
• USD Dissertation

Careers with Urban Strategies and Design

Graduates are well-positioned for successful careers in urban design, development planning, and allied professions across the globe. The programme prepares individuals for roles within the public and private sectors, as well as voluntary and international development organisations. By mastering the legislative and economic forces driving urban agendas, alumni can influence the future of city planning and sustainable development.

The career-focused nature of the master's degree ensures that students develop the quantitative and qualitative data skills required by modern employers. Many graduates find opportunities in local government, international agencies, and private consultancies. The strong industry links maintained by the university help students transition into professional practice with a deep understanding of the multidisciplinary nature of urban strategy.