Fast urbanisation poses complex challenges worldwide, which require skilled urban management specialists. The MSc in Urban Management and Development is designed to address this by equipping participants with specific knowledge and abilities. Established over 20 years ago, this programme aims to empower urban professionals to effectively tackle challenges and create a positive societal impact.
Core themes
IHS offers four Master tracks as part of the MSc in Urban Management & Development, in the fields of Urban Digital Transformation & Innovation, Urban Housing Justice & Land Justice, Urban Environment, Sustainability & Climate Change, and Strategic Urban Planning & Policies. The programme has benefited from initiatives like the Orange Knowledge Programme, which allowed IHS to educate more than 500 students from emerging economies and bring different perspectives and experiences to the classroom. Scholarship programmes have always facilitated access to essential education for students worldwide, ensuring a diverse student body and a rich peer-learning experience.
Each track's curriculum is carefully designed to develop essential skills in sustainable development, governance, and social equity, empowering graduates to make positive societal changes in their communities.
IHS graduates are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to navigate complex urban issues, including climate change impacts, resource scarcity, and socio-economic disparities.
Impact
The impact of this programme is most noticeable when looking at the career path and meaningful contributions of its alumni. Graduates have taken on leadership roles in urban planning departments, international development organizations, and NGOs in their respective countries. Many IHS graduates moved on to conduct research, teach or set up their own companies or foundations to address key issues in their local environment and become change agents in their communities. One of the most critical learnings from the programme is the importance of adopting a holistic approach to urban management and understanding the interconnectedness of social, economic, and environmental factors, which is essential for developing effective strategies to address urban challenges.
Get to know our alumni
Mariana Fiuza | Brazil
Mariana utilized her expertise in urban management to lead a community-driven development project that improved access to composting infrastructure in underserved neighbourhoods. Her on-demand composting nonprofit start-up, E de Sol, focuses on sustainable waste management practices and education.
Borys Cieślak | Poland
Borys used his intensive year at IHS to bridge practical consulting experience with academic theory, greatly enhancing his ability to address urban economic challenges. After completing his studies, Borys successfully prepared a PhD proposal and is now advancing his research at the Gran Sasso Science Institute in Italy, focusing on developing peripheral areas.
Other IHS alumni explored sustainable urban planning by advocating for green building standards and eco-friendly transportation initiatives in India or applied their skills in participatory governance to facilitate inclusive decision-making processes in urban development projects, ensuring equitable outcomes for marginalized communities. These success stories truly highlight the transformative impact of our Master's programme on our alumni to drive positive change in their home countries and communities.
