Urban Spatial Science MSc

The programme is composed of three pathway options: (1) Smart Cities and Urban Policy, (2) Modelling and Simulation, and (3) Data Visualisation. Core concepts applicable to all programme pathways provide a foundation in urban spatial science, with pathways supporting optional thematic specialisation. The MSc is deliberately cross-disciplinary, drawing on staff with backgrounds in geography, planning, computer science, physics, as well as the arts and humanities.

Taught content explores the theoretical, social and scientific foundations of the modern built environment through a geo-spatial, data-oriented lens. We also cultivate a practical appreciation of the technical and methodological ‘state-of-the-art’ associated with urban analytics and data-driven decision making, including: mathematical, statistical and simulation modelling, computer programming, spatial analysis and visualisation. Importantly, these practical skills are underpinned by broad theoretical perspectives on demographics, economics, form and function, network interactions and complexity, governance and policy, planning and, crucially, urban science.

Through learning what is possible with code, about the benefits of data-informed urban analytics, and (as importantly) about the limitations technology-led solutionism, our graduates are distinguished as being simultaneously technically-capable but critically reflective, able to look past the hype that accompanies the buzz around smart cities, urban data science, and urban science.

The Urban Spatial Science MSc replaces the previous CASA MSc programmes, Smart Cities and Urban Analytics and Spatial Data Science and Visualisation.