Urban planning and design is a professional discipline that explores several aspects of the built and social environments of cities and communities, anticipating how the city will function and how it will look as it develops, or redevelops, in the future. Urban planning takes into consideration the technical and political process concerned with the welfare of people, control of the use of land, transportation and communication networks, and the protection and enhancement of the city's environment.
The design aspects respond to the changes in technology as well as construction that deals with the look and aesthetic details of urban places and spaces. These designed spaces create a sense of place and character, give meanings to the city, and becomes the platform for social interaction. This enriches the people's quality of life which is vital not only for the growth of the nation, but also in making livable and sustainable cities.
The students' journey in this course starts with the fundamentals of urban planning as well as fundamentals of design principles, followed by a thorough training on every discipline involved in this field. Modules of study are centred on the planning, conservation and heritage, policy and planning, as well as landscape. Ultimately, the student will be equipped with a holistic understanding of the basic knowledge and operational skills necessary for achieving sustainable urban planning and design, their environments, facilities and support services.