UNIVERSITY OF TORONTO · CANADA
Master of Urban Design (MUD)
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 2 yearsProgram Duration
- 9.5 FCEsCourse Requirements
- Design StudioCore Focus
- Architecture, Landscape Architecture, PlanningPrerequisite Degrees
The Master of Urban Design (MUD) program is designed for individuals with backgrounds in architecture, landscape architecture, or planning who are looking to advance their careers in design research and professional practice at the urban and regional scales. It offers a comprehensive curriculum that integrates design as a primary tool with a strong foundation in related fields such as geography, environmental studies, social sciences, economics, and engineering. The program fosters responsible and innovative design thinking in the context of contemporary urban development, addressing challenges related to new urbanization paradigms, global economic shifts, and technological advancements. It aims to be a leading Canadian center for advanced research, design innovation, and critical discourse in urban design.
Curriculum
The program requires the completion of 9.5 full-course equivalents (FCEs). The curriculum is structured across four terms and includes core courses and electives.
- Year 1, Term 1
- Urban Design ComputationURD1021H
- Urban Design Studio 1URD1011Y
- Urban History Theory CriticismURD1031H
- Introduction to Urban Design Theory and PracticeURD1041H
- Year 1, Term 2
- Urban Design Studio 2URD1012Y
- Urban Design and DevelopmentURD1044H/PLA1655H
- Elective
- Elective
- Year 2, Term 3
- Urban Design Studio OptionsURD2013Y
- Thesis Research and PreparationURD2014H
- Elective
- Elective
- Year 2, Term 4
- Planning and Real Estate DevelopmentURD2041H / PLA1651H
- Urban Design Studio ThesisURD2015Y
- Elective
- Elective
Careers
The MUD program prepares graduates for roles in urban and regional design practice and research. Graduates are equipped to contribute to shaping cities and regions through design-based approaches.
- Urban Designer
- City Planner
- Regional Planner
- Landscape Architect (Urban Focus)
- Architect (Urban Focus)
Frequently asked questions
- What are the admission requirements for the Master of Urban Design program?
- You need a Bachelor's degree in architecture, landscape architecture, or planning, or a related field with demonstrated design ability via a portfolio. A minimum mid-B average in your final year of study is also required.
- What is the duration of the Master of Urban Design program?
- The Master of Urban Design program is structured across four terms and takes 2 years to complete.
- What will I study in the Master of Urban Design program?
- The program requires 9.5 full-course equivalents (FCEs), including core courses and electives, with a strong emphasis on Urban Design Studio work across the four terms.
- What are the career prospects after completing the Master of Urban Design program?
- Graduates are prepared for roles such as Urban Designer, City Planner, Regional Planner, or Landscape Architect with an urban focus.
- When can I apply for the Master of Urban Design program?
- Applications for the Master of Urban Design program open on October 1, 2025, and the application deadline is January 5, 2026.
- Are there specific documents required for the application?
- Yes, you will need to submit academic transcripts, a statement of purpose, a portfolio, and potentially English language proficiency scores if your prior education was not in English.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's DegreeA degree in architecture, landscape architecture, or planning is required. Degrees in related fields are accepted if the applicant can demonstrate design ability through a portfolio.
Academic AverageA final year average of at least mid-B (equivalent to a B- or 73-76% at U of T) from the University of Toronto or its equivalent from a recognized university.
A portfolio submission is required for applicants with degrees in related fields to demonstrate design ability.
Fees
Tuition (international)—
Tuition (home)—
Living—
Fee information is not available on the provided pages.
How to apply
1. Check Admission RequirementsEnsure you meet the academic and portfolio requirements for the MUD program. A degree in architecture, landscape architecture, or planning is preferred, with a minimum mid-B average in your final year.
2. Prepare Application DocumentsGather all necessary documents, including academic transcripts, a statement of purpose, and a portfolio demonstrating your design abilities. English language proficiency test scores may be required if your prior education was not in English.
3. Complete the Online ApplicationSubmit your application through the University of Toronto's online application portal. Ensure all sections are completed accurately.
4. Pay Application FeeA non-refundable application fee is typically required to process your application.
5. Submit Supporting DocumentsUpload your portfolio and any other required supporting documents by the application deadline. Official transcripts may be required later in the process.
Frequently asked questions
What are the admission requirements for the Master of Urban Design program?
+
You need a Bachelor's degree in architecture, landscape architecture, or planning, or a related field with demonstrated design ability via a portfolio. A minimum mid-B average in your final year of study is also required.
What is the duration of the Master of Urban Design program?
+
The Master of Urban Design program is structured across four terms and takes 2 years to complete.
What will I study in the Master of Urban Design program?
+
The program requires 9.5 full-course equivalents (FCEs), including core courses and electives, with a strong emphasis on Urban Design Studio work across the four terms.
What are the career prospects after completing the Master of Urban Design program?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles such as Urban Designer, City Planner, Regional Planner, or Landscape Architect with an urban focus.
When can I apply for the Master of Urban Design program?
+
Applications for the Master of Urban Design program open on October 1, 2025, and the application deadline is January 5, 2026.
Are there specific documents required for the application?
+
Yes, you will need to submit academic transcripts, a statement of purpose, a portfolio, and potentially English language proficiency scores if your prior education was not in English.