Master’s Programme in Sustainable Urban Planning and Design, 120 credits
Start of studies
Autumn 2026
Form of education
Campus, Day-time, Full-time
Language
English
How can we plan cities that withstand climate change, social challenges and rapid societal transitions? In the Master’s Programme in Sustainable Urban Planning, you gain the tools to analyse, design and develop the sustainable cities and living environments of the future. The programme combines theory and practice, with close links to research and society.
What will you study?
You will explore how urban planning can drive climate transition, support sustainable mobility, foster social sustainability, and build resilient communities. The programme combines theoretical courses with applied, project-based modules where you tackle real planning challenges issues in collaboration with Swedish municipalities and international partners.
After graduation – what career opportunities will you have?
The programme comprises 120 credits and leads to a Master of Science degree in Spatial Planning with a specialisation in Sustainable Urban Planning. After graduation, you can work as a:
- Urban or spatial planner in municipalities or public agencies
- Urban designer in planning or architectural firms
- Project manager in sustainable urban development
- Advisor or consultant in climate adaptation, energy transition or mobility
The demand for planners with expertise in sustainable urban planning is high and is expected to continue growing, both in Sweden and internationally.
About the programme
The Master’s Programme in Sustainable Urban Planning is a two-year advanced level programme leading to a Master of Science degree in Spatial Planning. It combines theoretical knowledge and methodological training with studio courses and practical applications in real planning contexts.
The programme is aimed at students with a bachelor’s degree in spatial planning, architecture, landscape architecture or an equivalent subject. It is taught in English and has a clear international profile, with exchange opportunities in Europe and collaborations beyond Europe.
Year 1 – introduction and methodology
The first year provides a foundation in sustainable urban planning and design and develops your ability to analyse and model urban environments, apply sustainability perspectives, and connect theory with practice. Courses include:
- Introduction to Sustainable Urban Planning – studio course (15 credits)
- Urban Planning Theory and History – theory course (7.5 credits)
- Urban Modelling – applied method course (7.5 credits)
- Scientific Work: Theoretical Starting Points– applied method course (7.5 credits)
- Urban Infrastructures in Transformation – applied method course (7.5 credits)
- Urban Ecologies – studio course (15 credits)
Year 2 – specialisation and thesis
The second year offers in-depth studies of social, ecological, and global perspectives on urban planning. It concludes with a substantial independent project. Courses include:
- Social Organization and Forms of Governance – applied method course (7.5 credits)
- Global Challenges and Perspectives in Urban Planning – theory course (7.5 credits)
- The Global Metropolis – studio course (15 credits)
- Master’s thesis in Urban Planning with focus on Sustainable Urban Planning (30 credits)
Learning and teaching approach
Teaching is based on studio approach with project-based learning and problem-oriented tasks with strong links to research. As an on-campus programme, you will collaborate and learn together with fellow students and tutors in an intensive studio environment. You work with themes such as energy transition, climate adaptation, social sustainability and mobility, often in collaboration with municipalities, authorities and international partners.
Career prospects
The programme prepares you for qualified roles within urban planning. The labour market for planners is strong, and the demand for expertise in sustainable urban development is increasing as societies transition towards more sustainable structures.
Note! The course list is tentative. See the programme syllabus for an established course list.
* Elective course
Autumn semester 2026
Introduction to Sustainable Urban Planning and Design, 15 credits
Urban Modelling and Digital Tools, 7,5 credits
Urban Planning Theory and History, 7,5 credits
Spring semester 2027
Scientific Work: Theory and Method, 7,5 credits
Urban Infrastructures in Transition, 7,5 credits
Autumn semester 2027
Governance and Planning, 7,5 credits
Global Challenges and Perspectives in Urban Planning, 7,5 credits
The Global Metropolis, 15 credits
Spring semester 2028
Students who apply for a course or programme, and meet the general and specific entry requirements, compete with one another for available places. When there are more qualified applicants than there are places for an education, the places are distributed through a selection. Read about the selection methods and procedure here.
Evaluations and advisory board
The study programmes at BTH are continuously monitored and developed through yearly follow-up dialogues, course evaluations after each completed course, and programme evaluations. Results from follow-ups and evaluations can lead to changes in the programmes. These changes are always communicated to the students.
Each educational programme is tied to an advisory board that discusses issues such as the quality of the programme, its development, and relevance for the labour market. In the advisory board, or a committee to the advisory board, teachers, external members, students and alumni are represented.
Bachelor’s degree in spatial planning, architecture, landscape architecture, architecture and visualization or equivalent, including 30 credits in planning and 30 credits in urban design. English 6.
Accommodation, VISA, insurance?
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Admission, tuition fees and scholarships
Please contact the Admissions Office with any questions regarding the entry requirements.
The tuition fee is SEK 70,000 per semester. One semester corresponds to 30 ECTS credits. EU/EEA citizens are not required to pay fees.
Read more and check out our FAQ about tuition fees and payment
BTH offers a scholarship programme for both prospective students and current students. Learn more about scholarships.