UNIVERSITY OF EDINBURGH · UNITED KINGDOM
Sustainable Lands and Cities
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
12 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
€0k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- Develop critical data skillsData-Driven Learning
- Explore rural and urban sustainabilityHolistic Focus
- Apply learning to real-world projectsPractical Application
- Study in a vibrant interdisciplinary environmentCross-Disciplinary Insight
- Shape resilient and equitable futuresImpactful Careers
The MSc Sustainable Lands and Cities programme addresses the urgent need for new approaches to the relationship between land, cities, and human development in the face of the climate emergency. This program unites students and professionals from diverse fields to explore what genuinely sustainable places entail and how to create them. You will engage with global initiatives like UN HABITAT and study real-world examples, such as zero-waste towns and community-supported agriculture. Through collaboration with experts and partners, you will investigate sustainability interventions relevant to specific places. The curriculum examines sustainability in both rural and urban contexts, focusing on smart growth practices, planetary boundaries, and advocating for justice and equity. Beyond theoretical knowledge, you will develop practical skills in geospatial data analysis, mapping, and evidence-based planning to understand the social, economic, environmental, and spatial dimensions of sustainability. The program also equips you to formulate commercial and sustainable strategies that balance business objectives with ethical and environmental responsibilities, preparing you to shape resilient, equitable, and sustainable futures for communities.
Curriculum
The MSc Sustainable Lands and Cities programme comprises compulsory and optional courses, culminating in a final project, totaling 180 credits. The curriculum is designed to develop data skills, critical thinking, and practical problem-solving.
- Year 1
- Exploration of Lands and Cities
- Geographic Data Science Approaches to Lands and Cities
- Optional Courses (various themes)
- Final Project
Careers
An interdisciplinary program like the MSc Sustainable Lands and Cities enhances career prospects by equipping graduates with collaborative skills to create and execute sustainable strategies. Graduates will possess cross-disciplinary understanding vital for decision-making in complex environments. This program prepares both recent graduates and experienced professionals for a range of opportunities.
- Project and Programme Manager (Private, Public, Third Sector)
- Policy Adviser
- Analyst
- Consultant
- Leaders in new or existing sectors with data/inclusion focus
Frequently asked questions
- What are the tuition fees for international students?
- Tuition fees for international students will be confirmed closer to the 2026/27 academic year. Please refer to the official university fees page for the most up-to-date information.
- What is the estimated annual living cost for a postgraduate student?
- For the 2026-2027 academic year, the estimated average annual living cost for a postgraduate student in Edinburgh is £18,504. This estimate covers accommodation, utilities, food, mobile phone, socialising, and local travel, but does not include tuition fees.
- What is the duration of the MSc Sustainable Lands and Cities programme?
- The MSc Sustainable Lands and Cities programme comprises compulsory and optional courses, culminating in a final project, totaling 180 credits. The curriculum is designed to develop data skills, critical thinking, and practical problem-solving.
- What are the entry requirements for this programme?
- This program welcomes students and professionals from diverse backgrounds. No prior data skills or qualifications are required, as data skills will be taught within the program.
- What career paths can graduates pursue?
- Graduates can pursue roles such as Project and Programme Manager, Policy Adviser, Analyst, Consultant, or Leaders in sectors with a data or inclusion focus.
- Are there any scholarships available?
- The Tercentenary Award for Excellence offers a £5,000 tuition fee reduction and is open to all applicants accepted for admission to taught MSc programmes. The application deadline is 01 May 2026.
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Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition fees for international students will be confirmed closer to the 2026/27 academic year. Please refer to the official university fees page for the most up-to-date information.
Tuition (home)Tuition fees for home students will be confirmed closer to the 2026/27 academic year. Please refer to the official university fees page for the most up-to-date information.
LivingFor the 2026-2027 academic year, the estimated average annual living cost for a postgraduate student in Edinburgh is £18,504 (£1,542 per month). This estimate covers accommodation, utilities, food, mobile phone, socialising, and local travel, but does not include tuition fees. Specific costs vary based on personal choices and accommodation type.
Living cost estimates are updated annually (last calculated March 2026) and are subject to change due to inflation, energy costs, and exchange rates. Accommodation and utilities average £978 per month (£11,736 annually). Food and other shopping are estimated at £248 per month, mobile phone contract at £12 per month, socialising/leisure at £246 per month, and local bus travel (age 22+) at £58 per month.
How to apply
1. Check Entry RequirementsEnsure you meet both the academic and English language requirements for postgraduate study at the University of Edinburgh.
2. Prepare Supporting DocumentsGather all necessary documents before applying, including a personal statement, information about your skills and experience, and any other program-specific requirements.
3. Check Application DeadlinesVerify the application deadline for the MSc Sustainable Lands and Cities program on the degree finder. If you need a visa or financial aid, apply as early as possible.
4. Submit Your ApplicationApply through the University's online application system. Ensure all information is complete and accurate before submission.
5. Track Your ApplicationAfter submission, you can track the status of your application online. You will be notified of the University's decision and can then accept your offer.
Scholarships
Tercentenary Award for Excellence£5,000
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition fees for international students?
+
Tuition fees for international students will be confirmed closer to the 2026/27 academic year. Please refer to the official university fees page for the most up-to-date information.
What is the estimated annual living cost for a postgraduate student?
+
For the 2026-2027 academic year, the estimated average annual living cost for a postgraduate student in Edinburgh is £18,504. This estimate covers accommodation, utilities, food, mobile phone, socialising, and local travel, but does not include tuition fees.
What is the duration of the MSc Sustainable Lands and Cities programme?
+
The MSc Sustainable Lands and Cities programme comprises compulsory and optional courses, culminating in a final project, totaling 180 credits. The curriculum is designed to develop data skills, critical thinking, and practical problem-solving.
What are the entry requirements for this programme?
+
This program welcomes students and professionals from diverse backgrounds. No prior data skills or qualifications are required, as data skills will be taught within the program.
What career paths can graduates pursue?
+
Graduates can pursue roles such as Project and Programme Manager, Policy Adviser, Analyst, Consultant, or Leaders in sectors with a data or inclusion focus.
Are there any scholarships available?
+
The Tercentenary Award for Excellence offers a £5,000 tuition fee reduction and is open to all applicants accepted for admission to taught MSc programmes. The application deadline is 01 May 2026.