UNIVERSITY OF AMSTERDAM · NETHERLANDS
Urban and Regional Planning
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
12 mo
Duration
7.0
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- Critically analyse and design urban futuresFocus
- Teaching embedded in cutting-edge researchResearch-led
- Personalised thesis supervisionSupport
- Strong international perspectiveInternational
- Connected to Amsterdam urban planning practicePractical Experience
- 60 ECTS, 12 monthsCredits and Duration
The Master's programme in Urban and Regional Planning at the University of Amsterdam equips students with the skills to analyze, understand, and address the complex social, ecological, and economic challenges facing contemporary cities. This full-time, 12-month program focuses on developing critical, evidence-based thinking for designing urban futures. You will explore how to research urbanization, manage diverse stakeholders in urban governance, and experiment with creative solutions to urban problems. This program is ideal for students interested in understanding and shaping more just and sustainable built environments. It offers a strong international orientation, with teaching deeply embedded in urban studies research conducted by university staff. The curriculum benefits from close ties to Amsterdam and Dutch urban planning practices, providing a practical context for your studies. Students also receive tailor-made thesis supervision to support their individual research.
Frequently asked questions
- What are the English language requirements for the Urban and Regional Planning Master's programme?
- You need an IELTS Academic score of 7.0 overall (with at least 6.5 in each section) or a TOEFL iBT score of 100 overall (with specific minimums for each section). Some exemptions apply if your previous education was taught in English or from certain countries.
- How long is the Master's programme in Urban and Regional Planning?
- This is a full-time, 12-month Master's programme, equivalent to 60 ECTS credits.
- What documents are required to apply for the programme?
- You will need to submit academic transcripts, degree certificates, a CV, a letter of motivation, and proof of English language proficiency. A copy of your passport or ID is also required.
- Where can I find information on tuition fees?
- Tuition fees vary by nationality and programme. You should visit the University of Amsterdam's official website for the most current and specific tuition fee information.
- Are there any scholarships available for international students in this programme?
- Yes, international students can apply for scholarships such as the Amsterdam Merit Scholarship and faculty-specific scholarships. Details and application procedures are available on the UvA website.
- What is the focus of the Urban and Regional Planning Master's programme?
- The programme equips you with skills to analyse complex urban challenges, focusing on critical, evidence-based thinking for designing sustainable and just urban futures, with a strong international perspective.
Entry requirements
IELTS Academic7 overall, with a minimum of 6.5 on each sub-score
TOEFL iBT100 overall, with a minimum of 24 (Reading), 22 (Listening), 25 (Speaking), 24 (Writing)
You may be exempt from submitting English language test scores if you have a Bachelor's degree from an accredited Dutch academic university, a fully English-taught accredited Bachelor's degree (3+ years, with official proof), a fully English-taught accredited Master's degree, or an International Baccalaureate diploma taught in English. Bachelor's degrees from the United States, Canada (except Quebec), Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, or Ireland automatically exempt you. English language test results must be taken within the past two years at the time of application.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition fees depend on your nationality and programme. Please check the university's official fees page for current international rates.
Tuition (home)Tuition fees depend on your nationality and programme. Please check the university's official fees page for current home/domestic rates.
LivingEstimated living costs are not provided; applicants should research typical living expenses in Amsterdam, Netherlands.
The university provides information on tuition fees, which vary based on nationality and programme. Prospective students are advised to visit the official university website for specific and up-to-date tuition fee information.
How to apply
1. Check Entry RequirementsBefore applying, thoroughly review the academic and English language requirements for the Master's in Urban and Regional Planning. Ensure your previous qualifications meet the criteria and that you satisfy the English language proficiency requirements as outlined (e.g., IELTS Academic 7.0 or TOEFL iBT 100).
2. Gather Application DocumentsPrepare all necessary documents, which typically include academic transcripts, degree certificates, a CV, a letter of motivation, and proof of English language proficiency. For English language proof, ensure your test scores are recent (within two years of application submission) or that you qualify for an automatic exemption.
3. Submit Your Application in SISSubmit your application through the University of Amsterdam's online application system (SIS). It is mandatory to upload your official English language proficiency certificate at the time of application, unless you are automatically exempt. Applications without sufficient proof of English proficiency will not be considered.
4. Await Admission DecisionAfter submitting your complete application, the Admissions Office will review your documents. You will be notified of the admission decision. If admitted, you will receive further instructions on enrollment.
Scholarships
Amsterdam Merit ScholarshipVaries
Faculty-specific scholarshipsVaries
Other financial aid optionsVaries
Frequently asked questions
What are the English language requirements for the Urban and Regional Planning Master's programme?
+
You need an IELTS Academic score of 7.0 overall (with at least 6.5 in each section) or a TOEFL iBT score of 100 overall (with specific minimums for each section). Some exemptions apply if your previous education was taught in English or from certain countries.
How long is the Master's programme in Urban and Regional Planning?
+
This is a full-time, 12-month Master's programme, equivalent to 60 ECTS credits.
What documents are required to apply for the programme?
+
You will need to submit academic transcripts, degree certificates, a CV, a letter of motivation, and proof of English language proficiency. A copy of your passport or ID is also required.
Where can I find information on tuition fees?
+
Tuition fees vary by nationality and programme. You should visit the University of Amsterdam's official website for the most current and specific tuition fee information.
Are there any scholarships available for international students in this programme?
+
Yes, international students can apply for scholarships such as the Amsterdam Merit Scholarship and faculty-specific scholarships. Details and application procedures are available on the UvA website.
What is the focus of the Urban and Regional Planning Master's programme?
+
The programme equips you with skills to analyse complex urban challenges, focusing on critical, evidence-based thinking for designing sustainable and just urban futures, with a strong international perspective.