About the programme
The MSc in Urban Management and Development is a 12-month English-taught programme offered in four Master tracks. This structure allows IHS students to specialise 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. Between now and 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.
Master tracks
Urban Environment, Sustainability & Climate Change
Integrated Management of Land, Water and Air
Strategic Urban Planning & Policies
Managing Socio-Spatial Dynamics for Sustainable Cities
How is your year organised?
The first block shares courses on urban complexity, governance & finance, data analytics and research design with the other master tracks. In the second block, your courses will be track-specific and you will be working more closely with your master track peers. The third and last block will be entirely dedicated to your thesis. It will further guide you in writing your thesis proposal on a topic relevant to your master track.
Why study the MSc in Urban Management & Development?
The programme is a great opportunity to learn from urban policy advisors and real-life case studies while studying at a top university in Europe.
#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)
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
Bridging theory and practice
Hands-on learning experiences during the MSc in Urban Management & Development
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?
Meet the IHS lecturers
Our lecturers spend a substantial amount of time working on real-life projects across the globe. See what they are up to now!
Dr Maartje van Eerd
Dr van Eerd is a human geographer, specialised in housing and social development.
Dr Paul Rabé
Dr Rabé is a political scientist, focusing on land governance and access to land in urban areas.
Dr Beatriz Calzada Olvera
Dr Olvera is a specialist in economics and innovation, researcher and lecturer on data analysis.
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Learn about the programme, lecturers, career opportunities, Rotterdam and more.
