Master's Programme in Urban Studies and Planning, Master of Science/Master of Social Sciences/Master of Arts

The Master’s Programme in Urban Studies and Planning is a two-year interdisciplinary programme at the University of Helsinki and Aalto University. It combines theoretical, historical and conceptual knowledge with methods, skills and experience for understanding urban phenomena and urban development challenges.

The curriculum has compulsory and optional studies. Compulsory studies include knowledge of urban processes and social worlds, digital representation, analysis and communication, academic research methods, a master’s seminar, a master’s thesis and a maturity test. Studio and field courses focus on a selected urban challenge theme in concrete urban projects and planning contexts. Optional courses can be taken at the University of Helsinki, Aalto University, other Finnish universities, through exchange abroad, or through an internship.

The University of Helsinki admission track is for students aiming for a Master of Science, Master of Arts or Master of Social Sciences degree. The programme prepares students for professional roles in urban development.

Modules

• Compulsory studies
• master’s seminar
• master’s thesis
• maturity test
• Optional courses
• Studio and field courses
• USP Urban Challenge Studio

The applicant’s previous studies are evaluated on how well they suit research-oriented studies and the writing of a master’s thesis required at the end of the programme.

• urban planning
• design
• real estate development
• strategic planning
• environmental planning
• policy and service design
• administration
• project initiation and implementation
• public organisations
• private organisations
• non-profit organisations
• planning firms
• architectural firms
• policy advisory firms
• research institutes
• NGOs