Architecture and creative practices for the City and Landscape

This is a 2‑year, English‑taught Master’s (LM‑4 R) at the University of Bologna that trains architects and urban designers to work on complex urban transformations in Europe, with a strong focus on sustainability, social inclusion, and creative use of heritage.

What you study

The curriculum is built around design studios and workshops where theory is applied to real projects:

• Urban and architectural design studios tackling:

  • Climate change adaptation and mitigation

  • Regeneration of neighbourhoods and public spaces

  • Integration of migrants and diverse communities

  • Reuse of cultural and industrial heritage.

• Technical and thematic courses such as:

  • Building design for climate change

  • Sustainable construction and materials

  • Urban planning, landscape, and territorial systems

  • Participatory planning and co‑design methods.

Courses are organised in multidisciplinary teams, often with external partners (municipalities, NGOs, private firms).

Teaching approach

• Project‑based learning: most credits come from design studios where you develop full projects from concept to technical detail.

• International and multicultural: all students are international or from outside the region, so studios simulate real European practice with mixed teams.

• Mobility and internships: opportunities for study exchanges and internships in architecture/urban design offices, public bodies, or research centres.

Professional profile

Graduates are prepared to work as:

• Architects and urban designers in private practices or public agencies

• Project managers for urban regeneration, housing, and infrastructure

• Consultants on sustainability, heritage reuse, and social innovation in cities

• Researchers or PhD candidates in architecture, urban studies, or related fields.

The degree is LM‑4 R, which in principle enables you to practise architecture in the EU after completing any required national licensing steps (e.g. state exam in Italy).

• Hold (or will obtain by the deadline) a first‑cycle degree (3‑year bachelor’s or equivalent) that gives access to second‑cycle degrees in your country.

• Have a background in architecture or closely related fields (e.g. L‑17 in Italy, or equivalent foreign degrees).

• Meet B2‑level English (CEFR).

• Academic background in architecture / urban design / related areas.

• Quality of your portfolio and previous projects (design studios, theses, professional work).

• CV, statement of purpose, and references to assess your motivation and fit with the programme’s focus on urban transformation, sustainability, and creative practices.

• Passport

• CV  in English

• English proficiency certificate (B2 or higher: IELTS, TOEFL, Cambridge, etc.; usually ≤ 3 years old).

• Bachelor’s degree certificate + transcript of records (full list of exams and grades, with final grade):

  • EU: can use Diploma Supplement.

  • Non‑EU: degree certificate + transcript, with official translation if not in English/Italian.

• Portfolio of your design/architecture work (PDF, with projects, drawings, renders, etc.).

• Statement of purpose / motivation letter explaining why this MSc and how it fits your goals.

• Letters of recommendation (often up to 2).