COURSE CURRICULUM

The Sustainable Urban Design and Planning BA (Hons) at Oxford Brookes focuses on understanding and shaping cities through sustainable, inclusive, and well-designed urban environments. In Year 1, students study the evolution of cities through historical, social, and environmental perspectives, alongside core modules in urban diversity, sustainability, and design practice. They develop foundational skills in urban analysis, planning systems, and place-making through hands-on Urban Lab projects and introductory design work. Year 2 builds deeper knowledge of planning systems, governance, policy-making, environmental decision-making, and development economics, while expanding design capabilities through regeneration, heritage conservation, and masterplanning projects. Students also learn how planning decisions are influenced by political, financial, and stakeholder processes, supported by international field trips and applied case studies. Year 3 focuses on advanced strategic planning, global urban challenges, and contemporary debates in urban development, alongside professional practice and research training. Students undertake a substantial research project, applying advanced methods to real planning or design issues, often at publication level. Throughout the degree, Urban Labs provide continuous practical experience, allowing students to apply theory to real-world contexts and develop a professional portfolio. The course integrates urban design, planning, sustainability, and policy, preparing graduates to address global challenges such as climate change, inequality, and urban growth while working in multidisciplinary environments across planning, architecture, and development sectors.