Master of Science in Urban Design
Specialization Name on the Graduation Document:
Master of Science in Urban Planning
Program Objectives:
In pursuit of achieving development goals in the Kingdom and responding to the requirements of comprehensive urban renaissance, along with the resulting urban expansion and population growth in all cities of the Kingdom, and considering the importance of educational investment in human development, the program aims to meet the increasing demand for specialists in urban design. It also aims to provide opportunities for holders of relevant undergraduate degrees to pursue their graduate studies, conduct scientific research, and explore modern methods and techniques suitable for designing and improving the urban environment, while addressing various design challenges arising from the rapid urban expansion to accommodate the growing population and meet their needs. As part of its effort to play a leading role and contribute effectively to national development, the Urban Planning Department has developed a graduate program (Master of Science in Urban Design) as a continuation of the undergraduate phase, aimed at enhancing and developing urban knowledge, in accordance with the general principles and foundations established by the college. The Urban Planning Department aims, through its program, to achieve the following:
Meet the local market's needs in the Kingdom for specialists in the field of urban design.
Contribute to the development of knowledge and sciences related to urban design by providing students with opportunities to conduct scientific research.
Address current urban design issues in Saudi cities and propose solutions while working to enhance the Arab and Islamic identity of these cities.
Elevate the professional level of urban designers and develop their professional practice by equipping students with knowledge, skills, and training on modern techniques while developing their abilities and skills.
Work towards developing the profession of urban design and providing it with the necessary concepts and foundations for its advancement.
Program Options:
Option 1: Urban Design (Coursework and Thesis System)
Option 2: Urban Design (Coursework and Research Project)
Admission Requirements:
Admission requirements as stated in the unified regulations for graduate studies in Saudi universities.
Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree in planning, urban design, architecture, or equivalent.
Full-time study is required, although part-time study may be approved in special cases with the consent of the applicant's employer.
Degree Requirements:
For the coursework and thesis system: 27 credit hours of graduate courses, plus the thesis.
For the coursework and research project system: 42 credit hours of graduate courses, including at least a 3-credit research project.
Overall Program Structure:
Coursework and Thesis Option:
Number and Type of Credit Hours | Number of Units |
9 Core Required Courses | 27 |
Thesis (600 Design) | -- |
Total | 27 |
Coursework and Research Project Option:
Number and Type of Credit Hours | Number of Units |
9 Core Required Courses | 27 |
3 Required Courses | 9 |
1 Elective Course | 3 |
Research Project (599 Design) | 3 |
Total | 42 |
