Master of Urban Design (Urban Design and Planning) (CRICOS course code 053653B) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by The University of Sydney over 2 years. This program equips students with advanced knowledge in urban design and regional planning, preparing them for leadership roles in shaping sustainable cities. The University of Sydney, a Group of Eight institution and CRICOS-registered provider (00026A), offers this course at its Camperdown campus in Sydney, NSW. With a duration of 2 years (104 weeks) and instruction in English, this is a single qualification (no dual award). Indicative total fees are A$101,652, though this does not include OSHC, living costs, or visa application charges.
This course falls under the field of Architecture and Building (0401) with a focus on Urban Design and Regional Planning (040103). At the Masters Degree (Coursework) level, students typically engage with advanced theoretical frameworks, design methodologies, and policy analysis relevant to urban environments. Graduates develop skills in spatial planning, sustainable design, community engagement, and strategic urban management. While specific curriculum details are set by The University of Sydney, programs at this level often include studio-based projects, research components, and industry collaborations. The CRICOS register confirms this course does not include a mandatory work component, allowing students to focus on academic study. Australia, with over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, is a global leader in urban design education. Sydney, as a major metropolitan hub, provides a rich context for studying urban design, with its diverse urban fabric and planning challenges. The University of Sydney's location in Camperdown offers proximity to Sydney's CBD, public transport, and urban case studies. International students benefit from ESOS Act protections, ensuring quality standards and student support. This program prepares graduates for careers in urban planning consultancies, government agencies, and development organisations.
The Master of Urban Design (Urban Design and Planning) has a CRICOS-registered duration of 2 years (104 weeks). It is taught entirely in English, with no work component or foundation studies. This is a single qualification, not a dual award. Students are expected to engage in full-time study, though part-time options may be available subject to visa conditions. The standard study load for a Masters by coursework is typically 48 credit points over four semesters. For international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500), maintaining full-time enrolment is mandatory. The University of Sydney's academic calendar follows two semesters per year, with intakes in February and July. Prospective students should check specific semester dates on the University's website.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$100,900, with non-tuition fees estimated at A$752, bringing the estimated total to A$101,652. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as of April 2026 and are set by The University of Sydney. Fees are subject to change; always confirm with the provider before applying. Note that this total does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for international students, nor does it include living costs or the visa application charge. Sydney's cost of living is higher than the national average; indicative weekly expenses for a single student are approximately A$600–A$800 for rent, food, and transport. For precise OSHC costs, refer to the Department of Home Affairs' website. The University of Sydney's fee page (http://sydney.edu.au) is the authoritative source for current charges.
Entry into this program typically requires a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as architecture, planning, or design, with a minimum credit average (or equivalent). The University of Sydney also expects English language proficiency, with an IELTS overall score of 6.5 to 7.0 (no band below 6.0) or equivalent recognised tests. Applicants with prior work experience may be considered. Foundation or pathway options are not specified for this course; students who do not meet entry requirements should contact the University directly. International students must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement as part of the visa process. Always check with The University of Sydney's admissions team for the most current entry criteria, as requirements may vary by intake.
This course is delivered at The University of Sydney — Camperdown, NSW. Camperdown is an inner-west suburb of Sydney, close to the city centre and well-served by public transport including trains, buses, and light rail. Sydney is home to over 50 CRICOS-registered providers, making it Australia's largest international student destination. The city's student population exceeds 200,000, fostering a vibrant multicultural environment. Living costs in Sydney are among the highest in Australia; a one-bedroom apartment near the university may cost A$400–A$600 per week, with groceries adding A$80–A$150 weekly. The Camperdown campus is adjacent to Royal Prince Alfred Hospital and features historic buildings alongside modern facilities. Students have access to libraries, design studios, and networking events within the university and the wider Sydney planning community.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows holders to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. You must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion requires you to demonstrate your intention to stay temporarily for study. Financial capacity evidence, including tuition fees, living expenses (A$21,041 per year minimum), and OSHC, is required. The Department of Home Affairs provides detailed guidance. Note that HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; for individual visa advice, consult a MARA-registered agent. All students are protected by the ESOS Act, ensuring course quality and tuition fee protection.
Applying for the Master of Urban Design (Urban Design and Planning) at The University of Sydney involves three key steps: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers — HeadStart Academy's database allows you to filter by course level, field, and city to find courses like this one. Ensure the provider is CRICOS-registered (The University of Sydney is 00026A). 2) Apply directly to your chosen institution — Prepare your academic transcripts, English language test results (IELTS 6.5-7.0), and any required supporting documents. Check The University of Sydney's application deadlines for semester intakes. Some courses may require a portfolio or interview. 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) — Once accepted, the University issues a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa, ensuring you meet GTE, financial, and OSHC requirements. Visa processing times vary; apply early. Always verify details on the Department of Home Affairs website.
Ready to apply? Explore this course on The University of Sydney's website or use HeadStart Academy to compare similar programs.
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Master of Urban Design (Urban Design and Planning) is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of Sydney. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.