About this program
Master of Urbanism, Landscape and Planning
Cities and settlements are under extreme pressure. Social and environmental inequity is sharply on the rise. The Master of Urbanism, Landscape and Planning focuses on multifaceted and multi-scalar solutions to issues such as social exclusion, unequal distribution of resources and spatial contradictions, whilst reflecting the multiple and transcultural expressions of urbanism worldwide.
Cities and settlements are under extreme pressure. Social and environmental inequity is sharply on the rise. Urbanism, spatial planning and intervention in landscape systems are in urgent need of renewed approaches. New strategies must be developed to not only tackle social exclusion, unequal distribution of resources and spatial contradictions, but also be inspired by the multiple and (trans)cultural expressions of worldwide urbanisms.
The Master of Urbanism, Landscape and Planning focuses on multi-faceted and -scalar issues of contemporary urban development. The course develops a critical understanding of the contemporary conditions of settlements, cities and urban regions. It introduces students to innovative concepts and strategies for qualitative interventions in urban territories through projects, plans and policies across different scales. The course offers three possible specializations: urbanism, planning or landscape.
The program develops a critical understanding of the contemporary conditions of settlements, cities and urban regions. It introduces students to innovative concepts and strategies for qualitative interventions in urban territories through projects, plans and policies across varying scales.
Admission requirements
The admission policy is intended to ensure equal opportunity of access to higher education for qualified European and third country students. There are two ways to be admitted to the program:
- Direct admission, on the basis of a relevant degree obtained in the Flemish Community. You can check the list of relevant program here.
- After an admission process, which is meant for students that obtained a degree outside the Flemish Community. They have to meet the conditions below.
All applications from students who have obtained a degree outside the Flemish Community are evaluated by both KU Leuven Admissions Office and the relevant master’s program director. Final admission decisions will made be at the discretion of the Faculty.
- Academic background: Be a graduate (with minimum 5 years of university education) in Architecture, Architectural Engineering, Civil Engineering, Spatial Planning and Urbanism, or Social Science (with a strong spatial planning or policy focus).
- Academic excellence: Applicants should have a good academic record (normal level of 70%, or GPA 2.8/3.0, upper second class).
- GRE test results: Students applying to this program are exempted from submitting GRE scores, but it might still be considered as an asset.
- Strong motivation: Submit a letter of motivation and a portfolio (design or planning analysis case studies, plus spatial analysis case study) which clearly demonstrate their sound professional intentions and relevant experience. Preferred candidates are applicants with some years of relevant professional experience.
- English language proficiency: students should have a good command of English, both spoken and written. Check the specific language requirements.
- Recommendations: Submit two recommendation letters to support the application.
For more information about admission requirements, Please visit the university website.
Does this course require proof of English proficiency?
The TOEFL iBT® test is accepted by 11,500 universities and higher education institutions in over 160 countries. Book your test today!
Learn moreChat with students
Program content
Stage1
- Theory and Practice of Urbanism since 1945
- Strategic Spatial Planning
- Landscape Architecture
- Project Development and Management
- Urban Design Strategies
- Landscape Urbanism
- Studio Landscape Urbanism
- Studio Urbanism
Stage2
- Landscape Architecture
- Project Development and Management
- Urban Design Strategies
- Landscape Urbanism
- Studio Landscape Urbanism
Scholarships & funding
Several scholarship options are available. Please visit the university website for more information.
Program delivery
The courses taught in English.
Tuition
Please visit the university website for more information about tuition fees
Qualification
Credits: 120 ECTS
Career paths
The master prepares you for leadership roles in urban design, urban development and management, and strategic planning, with a special focus on European-wide urban problems. MaUSP graduates are highly valued in urban design offices, consultancy firms for urban development and management, real estate agencies that develop public-private partnerships and the public sector. Graduates provide professional architectural and/or urban design experience in design offices, consultancy firms, or work as public servants.
Graduates are recognised in Flanders as urban planners, if they comply with certain rules pertaining to their choice courses, thus being eligible for certain positions such as public servants.
Message the school
About this institute
KU Leuven. Inspiring the Outstanding
KU Leuven is Europe’s most innovative university. Located in Belgium, it is dedicated to research, education, and service to society. KU Leuven is a founding member of the League of European Research Universities (LERU) and has a strong European and...
Why study at KU Leuven
A Highly Ranked University
According to international rankings, KU Leuven is among the best 100 universities in the world. Moreover, KU Leuven was ranked as most innovative university of Europe by Reuters four years in a row (2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019). All of KU Leuven’s disciplines proudly belong to the top 100 of their field. Scholars and researchers, teachers and visionaries, thinkers and makers all have their place in KU Leuven’s fertile intellectual habitat.
Most Innovative University in Europe
KU Leuven has been identified as Europe’s most innovative university for four years in a row by Reuters. By developing the most important drug against HIV, a new type of solar panel that converts oxygen into hydrogen and uncovering the secrets of Sagalassos, KU Leuven researchers have a profound impact on our everyday lives in nearly all fields of research. That innovative character is deeply embedded in the way we teach our students, by integrating relevant guest lectures, taking an Interdisciplinary approach and opening the most advanced research and education facilities.
A Comprehensive University
As a comprehensive university, KU Leuven offers a wide range of disciplines organized by 15 faculties. Each of these disciplines is ranked in the top 100 of its field according to the THE World University Rankings by subject. Half of the university’s faculties are even in the top 50 within their fields of study.
Reviews
Average rating 4
Based on 1 reviews.Contact info
KU Leuven
Want to know more about Master of Urbanism, Landscape and Planning? Fill out the following form and we'll pass your details on to a representative from the school, who will respond to your enquiry.
Very diverse learning environment and interesting case studies that challenge students as much as possible to develop their skills in urbanism and design.