The Master’s Programme in Urban Studies and Planning prepares students to excel as professionals capable of understanding and addressing complex urban development challenges.

The programme balances theoretical, historical and conceptual knowledge with the acquisition of methods, skills and experiences. Students gain a broad understanding of urban phenomena as well as practical experiences in collaborative and concrete situations.

Below you find the programme structure and curriculum explained in detail. Teaching in the programme is given in English. Exams can also be taken in Finnish or Swedish, and the Master’s thesis can be written in English, Finnish or Swedish, depending on the chosen language of the degree.

Why urban studies and planning?

Urbanisation is a global phenomenon that determines the future of our societies. Most of the key challenges of contemporary societies are encountered and addressed in cities. Cities provide enormous economic, technical and cultural opportunities, but they are also places of social conflicts and segregation as well as environmental and health problems.

The magnitude of such challenges implies that no single field of research or profession can tackle them alone: urban development requires an integrated approach. To this end, two prominent Finnish universities have joined forces in this unique and interdisciplinary Master’s Programme in Urban Studies and Planning.

As graduates of the programme, students are able to:

• apply relevant concepts and frameworks to analyze, and critically evaluate urban questions in their own professional fields;
• recognize and acknowledge the multidisciplinary foundations of urban studies and planning;
• apply rigorous methods and tools to address practical and scientific research questions and solutions;
• use relevant methods to collect, analyze and produce knowledge concerning urban challenges;
• recognize and develop their disciplinary roles;
• identify and develop interdisciplinary interaction;
• participate in public discussions on contemporary urban challenges.

International scope:

In the USP programme, students have an opportunity to study in an international environment and acquaint themselves with different cultures. Several nationalities are represented in both the teaching staff as well as among students. Teaching in the programme is given in English.

Students' elective coursework can include a student exchange, summer course, field excursion or internship abroad, and students are also encouraged to collaborate internationally on their Master’s theses. A recommended time to complete an exchange or internship abroad is during the 2nd year Autumn semester.