Please note: The content of the MSc in Urban Management & Development programme is subject to change for the 2026–2027 academic year. Full details of the programme will be shared in October.
About the programme
The MSc in Urban Management and Development is a 12-month English-taught programme where students can specialise further within their chosen field whilst benefiting from a broader understanding of sustainable urban management offered at IHS.
Cities are in a constant state of unprecedented change. Until 2030, urban areas are expected to triple in surface, and by 2050, 68% of the population will reside in cities. Population movements of this scale create physical, economic, environmental and social challenges. To remain sustainable, liveable and competitive, cities need well-trained urban managers in policy development and good governance. The MSc programme focuses on socio-spatial dynamics in planning, climate resilience and sustainability, governance and economics of cities and equitable access to sustainable land and housing.
The MSc programme is designed to provide students with the skills to analyse, understand and solve contemporary urban issues in their countries through forward-looking policy-making. A key feature of the programme is the use of comparative methodologies to discuss urban issues, policies and trends worldwide. Next to high-quality academic content, the programme also equips students with knowledge of popular data analysis software and negotiation skills.
How is the year organised?
The first block introduces the core concepts and methods of urban management. Students explore urban complexity, governance, participation, data analytics, and research design. These courses provide the foundational knowledge and skills needed to understand and analyse contemporary urban challenges. This period sets the stage for more specialised study in later blocks.
In the second block, students can tailor their studies to their specific interests. Specialisation options include topics such as climate change, sustainability, water management, digital transformation, land use, and social justice. This flexibility allows students to focus on areas most relevant to their career goals or research ambitions. Coursework combines theoretical insights with practical applications in urban management.
The third block is fully dedicated to your Master's thesis. Students develop a research proposal and carry out an in-depth research on a topic of their choice. Supervision and guidance are provided throughout the research and writing process. This period allows students to apply their knowledge and skills to produce a substantial piece of original academic work.
What is it like to be a part of the classroom?
The content is delivered through a blend of lectures with case studies, discussions, working groups, group assignments, and fieldwork. Below, you can see a few examples of activities that take place during the courses.
A day in the life: Thesis, internship and exploring Rotterdam
IHS student Rizkika shares her story
Resettlement and resilience: a personal journey into Perumbakkam’s water struggles
Thesis reflection from IHS Alumna Varsha Jeyaseelan
From experiences to advice: Insights from IHS alumni
What’s it like to study at IHS, and how can you make the most of your time here?
Study at a top-university in Rotterdam
#1 for Public Administration
worldwide for Public Administration Shanghai Ranking (2024)
#28 for Development Studies
QS WUR Ranking By Subject (2025)
#107 Worldwide
worldwide Times Higher Education (2025)
