MC193 - Master of Urban Design
Plan: MC193 - Master of Urban Design
Campus: City Campus
Overview
Program detailsPurpose of the ProgramArticulation and pathwaysEntrance requirementsExternal accreditation and industry linksStudent expenses and charges in addition to feesLibrary, IT and specialist resourcesProgram details
Award title: Master of Urban Design
Award abbreviation: MUrbDes
Total credit points: 204
Career: PGRD
Duration: 2 years full-time, 4 years part-time, Reduced duration available
Location: Onshore, City campus
Owning school: Architecture & Urban Design (320H)
Owning school URL: www.rmit.edu.au/about/schools-colleges/architecture-and-urban-design
ASCED code: 040103
CRICOS code: 078873F
Top of pagePurpose of the Program
The Master of Urban Design program provides an intensive, multidisciplinary environment for advanced study of contemporary urbanism through design practice. The program advances the role of design research and innovative design practice in confronting the critical issues affecting cities. Speculating about the future of cities in light of increasing environmental, social, industrial and economic change is a primary objective.
The program is part of RMIT’s ‘Urban Suite’ initiative, an industry-linked laboratory for urban-based research including Urban Development (School of Property Construction and Project Management, PCPM) and Urban Planning (School of Global, Urban and Social Studies, GUSS). Coursework is integrated across these disciplines and collaborative projects are designed to encourage exchange of disciplinary expertise, information and approaches toward urbanism.
In addition to Melbourne-based coursework a series of intensive, international workshops provides a global study experience. Workshops are held at travelling studios in Asia where you will collaborate with an international network of urban design peers, academics and practitioners. This experience provides a broader professional and cultural context to local urban questions, expanding and sharpening skills for engaging contemporary urbanism as a designer. It also develops a unique understanding and awareness of the mechanisms affecting urban change locally and globally, such as shifts in industry, infrastructure and technology.
The course ARCH1401 Urban Design Research Portfolio provides a research and capstone experience. This project will enable you to synthesize and integrate your knowledge gained in previous coursework, connect theory and practice and demonstrate your holistic achievement of the program learning outcomes.
The program is especially designed for advanced professional development and/or specialisation for architects, landscape architects and other design professionals working with the built environment. Master of Urban Design graduates pursue many professional pathways, including work in private practice, state or local government, or as a consultant to urban planning, property development, or non-profit community organisations. A flexible program structure and combination of face-to-face and online delivery modes is designed to suit working professionals.
Top of pageArticulation and pathways
If you are successful at gaining entry to the program and hold a Master of Architecture, Master of Landscape Architecture, or an accepted Master equivalent; or a 5-year (professional) Bachelor of Architecture undergraduate degree, you may receive up to 1-year (96 credit points) exemption from the University for courses in the program's first year.
If you have already developed areas of skill and knowledge included in this program (for example, through prior studies or work experience), you can apply for credit once you have enrolled in this program.
Upon successful completion this program, you may be eligible to undertake further studies in related programs at RMIT University, including Postgraduate Research programs, subject to each program’s entry requirements.
Top of pageEntrance requirements
Successful completion of an Australian bachelor degree (or equivalent overseas qualification) in architectural design, landscape architecture or an equivalent design related discipline.
English language requirement
A minimum of IELTS (Academic module) overall score of 6.5, with no band less than 6.0, or equivalent. For equivalents to English entry requirements, see the English requirements web page.
Selection task
All applicants must complete and submit the selection task.
Top of pageExternal accreditation and industry links
In Australia there are no professional bodies that recognise or accredit programs of urban design.
As urban design is often practiced as a specialisation within the disciplines of Architecture, Landscape Architecture or Urban Planning, applicants with accredited degrees in these fields may already have or pursue professional registration through those institutes.
Industry Links:
The interdisciplinary program structure links coursework to professionals in related industries, such as urban developers, project managers, urban planners, local and national government representatives and academic research partners. Integrating this industry expertise into the coursework is a key distinguishing aspect of this program.
The project-based curriculum focuses on present and future issues in contemporary urbanism in collaboration with relevant professional, community and governmental bodies.
The program aims to contribute speculative yet applicable research to contemporary urban questions locally and globally. Teaching staff includes practicing architects, landscape architects and urban designers. Adjunct and visiting staff from local and international practices are also invited.
Top of pageStudent expenses and charges in addition to fees
Once you are enrolled as a student in this program you will need to allow for expenses other than university tuition fees. Additional expenses may relate to the purchase of lecture notes, textbooks, stationery, consumables such as printer paper, fees levied by commercial internet service providers for internet access outside of the university campus, and other relevant costs.
Top of pageLibrary, IT and specialist resources
The Design Hub at RMIT will be the primary location for the Master of Urban Design program. Lectures and studio instruction may also occur in Building 8, Building 45 and Building 88. Some dedicated space will be available for postgraduate students in the Design Hub.
RMIT does not have dedicated studio spaces outside timetabled classes but we do have a range of project spaces where projects can be assembled and their resources productively arranged, available out of timetabled classes and studios (24/7).
You will have access to many specialist facilities including: advanced CAD laboratories, Construction Technology workshops, Digital Design and Manufacturing Laboratories, Modelling Workshops, 3D scanners and printers, laser and foam cutters as well as various metalworking, woodworking, vacuum forming equipment and CNC manufacturing machines.
Resources available from the Library
RMIT Library provides extensive resources, services and study space. All RMIT students have access to scholarly resources including course related material, books, e-books, journals and databases.
You can find more information on Library resources and services at: http://www.rmit.edu.au/library
One-on-one study support is available for assistance with assignment preparation, academic writing, referencing, maths and study skills. To contact Library staff for help, phone, email or chat via the Ask the Library service. https://www.rmit.edu.au/library/about-and-contacts/ask-the-library
For information resources relevant to specific subject areas please refer to the library subject guides here: https://rmit.libguides.com/
IT and Wireless
If you have a laptop or other wireless-enabled device you can connect to RMIT’s fast Wi-Fi. While on campus, no matter how you work or where you work, you’re able to connect, collaborate and create using this secure network. In addition, with myDesktop, you can access your RMIT desktop and applications from home or wherever you have an internet connection.
Online learning tools and content
You can access online learning tools and content for your program and associated courses at myRMIT www.rmit.edu.au/myrmit
Services available to you as a student at RMIT University
RMIT University provides a wide range of resources and opportunities to assist your learning and wellbeing so you can achieve your study and career goals. Services are available face to face and online assisting with:
- transition to tertiary study and learning
- study skills, academic skills including literacy, mathematics and basic sciences if relevant
- enabling assistance if you have a disability, long term medical condition or other form of disadvantage which may impact on your learning
- career development and employment
- living and wellbeing (including advice on health, housing and financial matters)
- opportunities for scholarships, leadership and study abroad
- opportunities for participating in arts, sport, recreation, fitness activities as well as student activism and university governance
We also offer a friendly and supportive environment for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. You can find more information at http://www.rmit.edu.au/students
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