In the face of rapid urban change, RMIT University has launched a new Master of Urban Design to help address the critical issues facing cities locally and globally.

Urban Design at RMIT, which is now open for applications for the July mid-year intake, focuses on establishing innovative techniques for design and practice, advancing the role of design in shaping the future form and performance of cities.

The program has an international approach, with students travelling to Vietnam and Spain for intensive studios.

Program Director Gretchen Wilkins said smart urban design was the key to confronting the critical issues affecting cities in Australia and around the world.

“Issues such as climate change, population shifts, contemporary workplaces, and transformations in industry, technology and infrastructure are all having a great impact on urban living,” Ms Wilkins said.

“The Master of Urban Design has been developed to help designers creatively integrate their expertise with other urban disciplines.

“With more people living in cities than ever before, approaching urban design innovatively and promoting alternative models for future city-building is vital.”

The Master of Urban Design program at RMIT provides a studio-based, multi-disciplinary environment to engage the issues confronting cities through project-based work.

Projects are curated around key sites of urban change locally and globally, and engage with the professional and community networks invested in their future. Intensive studios take place at RMIT’s campuses and locations in Melbourne, Barcelona and Ho Chi Minh City.

The two/four-year (full time/part time) program aims to nurture designers who are engaged in innovative approaches to their practice.

For more information or to attend the Master of Urban Design presentation at the RMIT Mid-year Expo, visit: www.rmit.edu.au/urbandesign