COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY · UNITED STATES
AI and the Future of Cities
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
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Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 3 PointsCredits
- Spring 2026Intake
- TU 5 PM - 7 PMClass Time
- 204 FayerweatherLocation
This course explores the profound impact of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, automation, and digital infrastructure on the evolution of cities. You will delve into the economic and political forces driving urban technology, investigate the spatial and environmental consequences of data centers and AI systems, and examine the shifting dynamics between the public sector, private companies, and communities. The course also considers how technological disruptions are influencing public policy related to climate, energy, and infrastructure. Additionally, it addresses how AI adoption may reshape work, leisure, and daily life, and what these changes mean for real estate, public spaces, mobility, and local economic development. Learning will involve case studies, guest lectures, and group projects to analyze the potential influence of AI on the future form and function of urban environments.
Curriculum
This course is offered as a single module. Specific module details for future iterations are subject to change.
- Spring 2026
- AI and the Future of CitiesPLAN6613-1
Careers
This course provides insights relevant to careers in urban planning, real estate development, urban design, policy analysis, and technology consulting, focusing on the intersection of AI and urban environments.
- Urban Planner
- Real Estate Developer
- Urban Designer
- Policy Analyst
- Technology Consultant
Frequently asked questions
- What is the "AI and the Future of Cities" programme about?
- This course explores the impact of technologies like AI and automation on urban environments, examining economic, political, and spatial consequences. It also considers how these disruptions influence public policy, work, leisure, and daily life in cities.
- Who is this course for?
- This course is open to students enrolled in specific graduate programs at Columbia University, including M.S. Real Estate Development, Master of Architecture, M.S. Advanced Architectural Design, M.S. Architecture and Urban Design, M.S. Urban Planning, M.S. Computational Design Practices, and M.S. Historic Preservation.
- When is the next intake for this course?
- The next intake for the "AI and the Future of Cities" course is in Spring 2026.
- What are the career prospects after taking this course?
- This course provides insights relevant to careers in urban planning, real estate development, urban design, policy analysis, and technology consulting, focusing on the intersection of AI and urban environments.
- How do I apply for this course?
- This course is typically taken as part of a degree program. You should consult the relevant graduate program admissions pages for detailed application instructions and requirements, and prepare documents like transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.
- What are the tuition fees for this course?
- Detailed tuition and fee information, including costs for this specific course, is available through Columbia University's central finance and registrar offices. Specific costs vary by program and academic year.
Entry requirements
Program EligibilityThis course is open to students enrolled in specific graduate programs, including M.S. Real Estate Development, Master of Architecture, M.S. Advanced Architectural Design, M.S. Architecture and Urban Design, M.S. Urban Planning, M.S. Computational Design Practices, and M.S. Historic Preservation.
Please refer to specific program admission requirements for English language proficiency.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition fees are not specified for this individual course. Please refer to program-specific tuition rates.
Tuition (home)Tuition fees are not specified for this individual course. Please refer to program-specific tuition rates.
LivingLiving costs are not specified for this individual course. Please refer to general university estimates for living expenses in New York.
Detailed tuition and fee information is available through Columbia University's central finance and registrar offices. Specific costs vary by program and academic year.
How to apply
1. Identify Your ProgramDetermine which graduate program aligns with your academic and career goals (e.g., M.S. Urban Planning, M.S. Real Estate Development).
2. Review Admission RequirementsVisit the specific program's admissions page to understand the academic prerequisites, standardized test requirements (if any), and English language proficiency standards.
3. Prepare Application MaterialsGather necessary documents, which typically include transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and potentially a portfolio or resume.
4. Submit ApplicationComplete and submit the online application form by the program's stated deadline.
5. Await Admission DecisionApplications are reviewed by the admissions committee, and decisions are communicated by the program.
Frequently asked questions
What is the "AI and the Future of Cities" programme about?
+
This course explores the impact of technologies like AI and automation on urban environments, examining economic, political, and spatial consequences. It also considers how these disruptions influence public policy, work, leisure, and daily life in cities.
Who is this course for?
+
This course is open to students enrolled in specific graduate programs at Columbia University, including M.S. Real Estate Development, Master of Architecture, M.S. Advanced Architectural Design, M.S. Architecture and Urban Design, M.S. Urban Planning, M.S. Computational Design Practices, and M.S. Historic Preservation.
When is the next intake for this course?
+
The next intake for the "AI and the Future of Cities" course is in Spring 2026.
What are the career prospects after taking this course?
+
This course provides insights relevant to careers in urban planning, real estate development, urban design, policy analysis, and technology consulting, focusing on the intersection of AI and urban environments.
How do I apply for this course?
+
This course is typically taken as part of a degree program. You should consult the relevant graduate program admissions pages for detailed application instructions and requirements, and prepare documents like transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.
What are the tuition fees for this course?
+
Detailed tuition and fee information, including costs for this specific course, is available through Columbia University's central finance and registrar offices. Specific costs vary by program and academic year.