Master of Architecture in Urban Design: Course Details Colleges, Scope, Syllabus, Jobs 2024

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Sushil Pandey

Senior Content Specialist | Updated on - Jun 23, 2025

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Master of Architecture in Urban Design is a 2-year postgraduate program that is concerned with the design and construction of urban areas. This course comprises the concepts such as Urban Studies, Design and Development, Natural Systems, Housing Politics & Patterns and many more.

For M.Arch. Admission students have to appear for university level entrance exams such as GATE, CEED, TANCET and KA PGCET. Master of Architecture in Urban Design can be pursued by candidates who have completed their Bachelor’s Degree in B.Arch from a recognised institute and earned the minimum qualifying marks. Some institutes base their admission on the marks obtained by the candidate in the entrance exams.

Some of the top colleges offer M.Arch. programs are IIT Bombay, MSU Baroda, IIEST Shibpur, CEPT University, Guwahati College of Architecture, Sir JJ College of Architecture. The average tuition fee for this program varies between INR 50,000 to 2 Lacs.

The average annual salary offered to M.Arch. Urban Design in India ranges between INR 1Lacs to 6 Lacs depending on the candidate's expertise in the field. Graduates can land a job in various positions like Architect, Urban Planner, Assistant Professor, Urban Designer, Associate Planner, Research Associate , Landscape Architect.

Master of Architecture in Urban Design Quick Facts

  • The duration of the course is 2 years and it is divided into 4 semesters.
  • Admissions to Master of Architecture in Urban Design varies from institute to institute. They are done on the basis of both entrance exam and merit as well.
  • While pursuing the course, you will come across subjects such as Urban Studies, Design & Development, Infrastructure, Traffic & Transportation, Natural Systems, etc.
  • Some of the top Master of Architecture in Urban Design Exams are GATE, CEED, TANCET, KA PGCET, TS PGECET and many more.
  • The top colleges offer Master of Architecture in Urban Design course are IIT Bombay, MSU Baroda, IIEST Shibpur.
  • The average tuition fee for this course varies between INR 50,000 to 2 Lacs.
  • A few of the top job profiles offered after completing a Master of Architecture in Urban Design courses are Urban Designer, Associate Planner, Research Associate , Landscape Architect.
  • The average salary for a Master of Architecture in Urban Design graduate varies from INR 1 Lakh to 6 Lacs.
Course type Postgraduate
M.Arch. Urban Design Duration 2 years
M.Arch. Urban Design Examination Type Semester wise
M.Arch. Urban Design Eligibility Bachelor’s Degree in B.Arch. from a recognised institution
M.Arch. Urban Design Admission process Merit based selection or Entrance exam
M.Arch. Urban Design Fee INR 50, 000 to INR 2 Lacs
M.Arch. Urban Design Average Salary INR 1Lacs to 6 Lacs
Top Recruiting companies HP, IBM, Amazon, Unisys India, Wipro, Baker Hughes, Benz, Bosh Ltd, CTS, Ernst & Young, Intergraph, ITC, L T Finance, MRF, MU Sigma, Oracle, Quest Global.
Job Position Architect, Urban Planner, Assistant Professor, Urban Designer, Associate Planner, Research Associate , Landscape Architect.

All About Master of Architecture in Urban Design

Master of Architecture in Urban Design is a project-based program which involves the design of buildings, groups of buildings, spaces and landscapes. Candidates who want to improve their architecture skills and knowledge of current theory must pick this course.

In addition to its basic core requirements, the program offers areas of specialization such as Housing, Transport Planning, Industrial Design, Architectural Conservation, Regional Planning, Urban Design, Environmental Planning, Housing, Transport Planning, Industrial Design, etc.

Why this course?

Master of Architecture in Urban Design is beneficial for students looking to excel in the field of Architecture and are aspiring for a career boost.

  • The course offers a wide variety of high paying career opportunities to graduates such as Architect, Urban Planner, Assistant Professor, Urban Designer, Associate Planner, Research Associate , Landscape Architect, etc.
  • Candidates after completion of the course can opt for higher education by joining the PhD programs.
  • The average annual salary offered to M.Arch. Urban Design in India ranges between INR 1Lacs to 6 Lacs depending on the candidate's expertise in the field.
  • Some of the best companies offer jobs to M.Arch. Urban Design candidates such as HP, IBM, Amazon, Unisys India, Wipro, Baker Hughes, Benz, Bosh Ltd, CTS, Ernst & Young, Intergraph, ITC, L T Finance, MRF, MU Sigma, Oracle, Quest Global.

When to Study for a Master of Architecture in Urban Design?

  • The course should be pursued immediately after the completion of the Graduation, for those who are pursuing a regular course.
  • Candidates who are working can do their Master of Architecture in Urban Design through distance or part-time courses, which are available in various institutes.
  • The candidates should pursue this course when they have decided that they want to pursue either further studies and/or have better job opportunities.

Master of Architecture in Urban Design Admission Process

The Master of Architecture in Urban Design Admission Process is conducted through both entrance exam scores and on the basis of merit as well, though the top institutes mostly consider entrance exams scores. Students who qualify the eligibility criteria for entrance exam-based admission need to fill the application form and appear for the entrance exam.

Master of Architecture in Urban Design Eligibility

Students who wish to enrol in the Master of Architecture in Urban Design programs must meet the following eligibility requirements:

  • Applicants must have completed their Bachelor's Degree in B. Arch from a recognized institute with minimum qualifying marks.
  • Those who have cleared the entrance examination are also eligible to apply.

Master of Architecture in Urban Design: Admission Process

The Master of Architecture in Urban Design admission process usually starts in April. Master of Architecture in Urban Design can be pursued by candidates who have completed their Bachelor’s Degree in B.Arch. from a recognised institute and earned the minimum qualifying marks.

Some institutes base their admission on the marks obtained by the candidate in the entrance exams.

The top entrance exams conducted for this course are GATE, CEED, TANCET, Karnataka PGCET and TS PGECET.

  • GATE: The Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering is a national level entrance exam conducted jointly by IIT’s and Indian Institute of Science. GATE has no age or attempt limit and students in their fourth year of architecture or students who have completed B.Arch. from a recognised institute can apply.
  • CEED: The Common Entrance Examination for Design is conducted by IIT’s and Indian Institute of Science. Candidates who completed a minimum 3-year degree or diploma in Design, Fine Arts, or Engineering from a recognized institute can apply.
  • Karnataka PGCET: The Karnataka Post Graduate Common Entrance Test is a state level entrance examination conducted by the Karnataka Examination Authority. Students with a valid GATE score or a bachelor's degree in architecture with minimum qualifying marks can apply.
  • TS PGECET: The Post Graduate Engineering Common Entrance Test is a Telangana state level common entrance test conducted by Osmania University for admission into regular PG Courses. The candidate should have a bachelor’s degree in architecture from a recognised institute to apply.
  • TANCET: The Tamil Nadu Common Entrance Test is a state level entrance test conducted by Anna university every year across the state of Tamil Nadu. The candidates with a bachelor’s degree in architecture from a recognised institute can apply.

Master of Architecture in Urban Design Entrance Exams

The tentative schedule for entrance exams for Master of Architecture in Urban Design admission 2024:

Types of Master of Architecture in Urban Design

Master of Architecture in Urban Design can be pursued in different types apart from regular M.Arch. Students also have the opportunity to pursue online M.Arch and M.Arch distance education.

Candidates who are working can do their Master of Architecture in Urban Design through distance or online courses, which are available in various institutes.

Full Time Master of Architecture in Urban Design

  • Master of Architecture in Urban Design is a 2-year post graduate program.
  • This program is divided into 4 semesters that vary from institute to institute.
  • A Master in Urban Design is a degree that teaches students to design landscapes, buildings and spaces within the urban environment. Graduates will have a multidisciplinary education that includes urban design theory.
  • Master of Architecture in Urban Design can be pursued by candidates who have completed their Bachelor’s Degree in B.Arch.
  • For M.Arch. Admission students have to appear for university level entrance exams such as GATE, CEED, TANCET and KA PGCET.
  • The average tuition fee for this program varies between INR 50,000 to 2,00,000.
  • While pursuing the course, you will come across subjects such as Urban Studies, Design & Development, Infrastructure, Traffic & Transportation, Natural Systems, etc.

Online Master of Architecture in Urban Design

Online courses have in recent times become a huge source of education that helps, both students looking for knowledge and professionals seeking a deeper understanding.

Distance Master of Architecture in Urban Design courses differ from online M.Arch in Urban Design courses, because online courses do not require you to attend class lectures and provide a course curriculum that fits your schedule.

Master of Architecture in Urban Design Distance Education

Master of Architecture in Urban Design Distance Education is a postgraduate programme. The distance course is most suitable for students who are unable to pursue a regular Master of Architecture in Urban Design. Some of the advantages of going for Distance Education:

  • Flexible education system
  • Easy Curriculum
  • No Regular classes
  • Earn along with learning
  • Less course fees

Master of Architecture in Urban Design Syllabus

The following table shows the semester wise syllabus of this course:

Semester I Semester II
Urban Studies, Design & Development Urban Extensions
Evolution of Urbanity Urban Planning Practice and Legislation
Urban Conservation Infrastructure, Traffic & Transportation
Humanizing Cities Urban Form & Space
Methods and Representations State, Culture & Urban Design
NA Natural Systems
Semester III Semester IV
Urban Transformation Urban Design Thesis
Urban Design Theory Urban System & Management
Housing Politics & Patterns Workshop
Thesis: Pre-Design Project Development & Financing

Best Colleges for Master of Architecture in Urban Design

Many deemed universities and private colleges offer M.Arch Urban Design admission across the nation. Few colleges offer admission through students’ performance in entrance exams while some colleges grant admission through merit lists. The list of top colleges in India is as follows:-

Master of Architecture in Urban Design Abroad

For candidates looking to pursue a Masters in Architecture in Urban Design abroad the requirements could vary depending on the architectural school. The general requirements are:

  • A Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture or an undergraduate degree in a subject related to design.
  • GRE Scores
  • English proficiency exams such as TOEFL, IELTS, etc.
College Name Tuition Fee (First Year)
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (USA) INR 35.2 Lakhs
University of Greenwich INR 11.7 Lakh
University of California - Berkeley Campus INR 21.7 Lakhs
Harvard University INR 37.9 Lakhs
University of East London (UEL) INR 11.4 Lakhs
University of Sydney INR 19.3 Lakh
Deakin University INR 15.7 Lakh
Coventry University INR 8.6 Lakh
RMIT University INR 20.2 Lakh

Master of Architecture in Urban Design Jobs

Master of Architecture in Urban Design graduates can apply for jobs in a variety of fields and organizations. They may opt to work for a private or government organization or may choose to work independently.

Successful postgraduates can be hired in companies such as HP, IBM, Amazon, Unisys India, Wipro, Baker Hughes, etc.

The average salary for a Master of Architecture in Urban Design graduate varies from INR 1 Lakh to 6 Lacs.

Job Profile Job Description Average Annual Salary(INR)
Design Architect A design architect identifies the clients' needs and looks over projects from start to finish to ensure high quality, innovative and functional design. INR 5.1 LPA
Project Architect A project architect is responsible for management of the architectural aspects of the development of a design, production of the construction documents INR 7.7 LPA
Architect An architect designs new buildings or provides alterations to existing structures, and provides advice on the restoration and conservation of old properties. INR 5.7 LPA
Urban Designer An urban designer’s job responsibility is to manage projects, oversee the development of design ideas and direct their team’s daily operations. INR 5.6 LPA
Project Manager A project manager’s job is to supervise and plan projects within an organisation, from the initial ideation through to completion. INR 8.5 LPA
Landscape Architect They are expert in design of outdoor public areas, landmarks and structures INR 4.6 LPA

Top Recruiters

Accenture Adani Group,
Amazon, Wipro
Baker Hughes Unisys India
Benz Bosh Ltd
CTS Ernst & Young
Intergraph Siemens
SAP Texas Instrument
CallisonRTKL IBM

Master of Architecture in Urban Design Future Scope

  • There are numerous job opportunities for post graduates in Master of Architecture in Urban Design in companies such as Benz, Bosh Ltd, CTS, Ernst & Young, Intergraph, ITC, L T Finance, etc.
  • Graduates of this course interested in teaching can opt for jobs such as Art Director, Architectural Engineer, Building Researcher, Landscape Architect, etc.
  • Master of Architecture in Urban Design graduates have a great number of opportunities in the government sector like Public Works Department, Urban Development Corporations, State Housing Boards, Post and Telegraph, Town and Country Planning Organization, etc.
  • Master of Architecture in Urban Design graduates can also apply further for future studies and earn a doctorate.

Master of Architecture in Urban Design FAQs

Ques. What is the average fee for a Master of Architecture in Urban Design in India?

Ans. The average fee for Master of Architecture in Urban Design in India is between INR50,000 to 2 Lacs.

Ques. What is GATE?

Ans. The Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering is a national level entrance exam conducted jointly by IIT’s and Indian Institute of Science for postgraduate studies.

Ques. What are some of the subjects in the Master of Architecture in Urban Design course?

Ans. While pursuing the course, you will come across subjects such as Urban Studies, Design & Development, Infrastructure, Traffic & Transportation, Natural Systems

Ques. Who are some of the recruiters after M.Arch?

Ans. Wipro, Baker Hughes, Benz, Bosh Ltd, CTS, Ernst & Young, etc.

Ques. What are the jobs available after M.Arch in urban design?

Ans. Architectural technician, Project Architect, landscape architect, design architect, professor, building inspector etc.

Ques. What are the exam dates for the KARNATAKA PGCET exam?

Ans. July 202 is the exam date for Karnataka PGCET.

Ques. How long is the Master of Architecture in Urban Design course?

Ans. It is a two-year post-graduate course which is divided into four semesters

Ques. What are the fees for M.Arch at IIT Roorkee?

Ans. The average fee for M.Arch at IIT Roorkee is INR 30000.

Ques. Which universities are the best for urban design abroad in an M.Arch?

Ans. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (USA), University of Greenwich, University of California - Berkeley Campus, Harvard University, University of East London.

Ques. What is the expected salary for a Master of Architecture in Urban Design graduate?

Ans. The average salary for a M.Arch. graduate varies from INR 1 Lakh to 6 Lacs.

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5 Reviews found

Faculty

We have almost 15 faculty for 11 students in our batch half of them are urban conservation faculty and some teach to bachelor students as well as master students , faculties are friendly you can approach them for problems related to academic any time I can't name any specific faculty but there are some good and teachers and some are the worst but overall all are good we have semester exams which are very tough you have to study the whole semester to pass keep getting insights from your faculties showup regularly in college only then you can pass the exam

Fees and Financial Aid

The year wise fees is 91500 out of which 82805 is tution fees and 8695 is development fees additional you have to pay 4500 library deposit which is refundable and 115 is student insurance 3000 is university exam fees 800 is gymkhana fees and 400 is is university admission form fees for mumbai university students and other than mumbai university students you have to pay 600 rupees scholarship is only available for SC and ST students where they don't have to pay tution fees and development fees only the remaining amount that is around 6000


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Faculty

The faculty is the best. Their imagination and promoting us to imagine something bigger and then craving out that on paper and creating something that is actually feasible and worth remembering was very helpful in making our work easier.

Admission

For every post graduation course there is an entrance exam so there is also for M.Arch. Cracking the exam is not a cup of tea it takes a lot of hard work. Finally after the declaration of results I got good scores and got admitted.


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Admission

For admission in this college, I took the CET that is conducted in Maharashtra for selection in an architectural college for master's degree. It was important to get a good score for selection in this college. Since I have completed my Bachelors from this college only, my admission procedure was a little simpler.

Faculty

The faculty is friendly and helpful. They not only used to solve all our doubts and guided us to excel in our exams as well. Since we had a credit score maintained for each semester, it was important to do better every semester. The teachers gave us notes and helped us with all the problems.


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Placement Experience

The placement process was above than average. The top companies were visited every year for the placements in the college. Most of the students got placement in the top companies. The minimum salary was Rs. 3.5 LPA and maximum salary was Rs. 15 LPA. Yes, the college provided internships for all the students .

Fee Structure And Facilities

The fee structure of Rizvi College of Architecture was quite feasible for the students in comparison to other universities. The fee structure for M.Arch was Rs.109,000 per year. The course duration was of 2 years. So, the totl fees for the course was Rs. 218,000 for two years.


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Campus Life

Life is pretty awesome and lively. We got to interact with students from different programs and ethnical backgrounds. The infrastructure is good, the auditorium and the studios are digitized. The labs are AV enabled and also have broadband connectivity.

Alumni/Alumna

The faculty is very hardworking and they not only helped us with the course structure but would also provide us assistance in terms of internships and placements. We can ask and discuss all the aspects of our course with them, at any point in time.


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