MSc City Design and Social Science

About the MSc programme

The MSc City Design and Social Science is an innovative master’s programme that focuses on the relations between city design and the physical, social, and political organisation of cities and urban environments. Design is explored as a field of research, knowledge, and practice that shapes urban space, responds to urban problems and possibilities of transformation, and integrates critical and practical approaches to the city.

This interdisciplinary programme combines an exciting and diverse range of learning experiences. It is distinctive as a studio-based master’s with a social science foundation and a strong orientation to practice. We engage in intensive research on practical urban contexts in the core studio workshop, with taught courses on critical urban theories, the implications of contemporary urban politics for city-making, and the changing nature of design practice, as well as options chosen from the suite of urban courses taught across LSE. An international field trip supports and extends the intensive teaching programme. In addition, you will undertake an independent project under faculty supervision.

You will take compulsory and optional courses from leading urban faculty across LSE, and meet eminent urban scholars and practitioners in a series of dedicated masterclasses. This rewarding programme aims to promote interdisciplinary practitioners, academics, and professionals who will engage with the city in a holistic manner and have a positive impact on the making of the urban environment.

Programme details

You can find the most up-to-date list of optional courses for MSc City Design and Social Science in the Programme Regulations section of the current School Calendar.

You must note however that while care has been taken to ensure that this information is up to date and correct, some circumstances may cause the School to subsequently change, suspend or withdraw a course or programme of study, or change the fees that apply to it. The School will neither be liable for information that after publication becomes inaccurate or irrelevant, nor for changing, suspending or withdrawing a course or programme of study due to circumstances outside of its control. You must also note that places are limited on some courses and/or subject to specific entry requirements. The School cannot therefore guarantee places on its courses. You should visit the School's Calendar, or contact the relevant academic department, for information on the availability and/or content of courses and programmes of study. Certain substantive changes will be listed on the Updated graduate course and programme information page.

Graduate destinations

Graduates from the programme find international career opportunities across the urban design, planning and development fields in the public, private and community sectors – as designers and planners, project managers and consultants, researchers and entrepreneurs. A vibrant alumni network offers guidance and support for current students and recent graduates.