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Qualification type
MSc

Global Urbanism and Heritage

Entry requirements
A 2:2 degree in a relevant subject.
View full requirements
Study mode
Full-time
Duration
12 months
Start date and application deadlines
Start date
September 2026
Apply by:
Starts on:

We've set the country or region your qualifications are from as United Kingdom.

How to apply
Applications for courses starting in September 2026 are now open. Submit your application today. Please note that the application deadlines for September 2026 courses are subject to change. Applications for courses starting in January 2026 are open, and you can apply today.
UK students

Apply for this course by:

There is no fee to apply for our courses.

What you'll need

As part of the application process, you'll need to submit:

  • School or college transcripts/certificates
  • University transcripts and certified translations if applicable
  • Degree certificates
  • Personal statement outlining your learning ambitions

Our application process

  1. Sign into the University of Liverpool Application Portal and start your application
  2. Submit your application
  3. We'll email you to let you know we're processing your application
  4. Track the progress of your application using the Postgraduate Application Tracker (we'll send you a link to the tracker)
  5. We'll email you when a decision has been made
  6. If you've been made an offer, you can then accept or decline it using the Postgraduate Application Tracker.

Already a University of Liverpool student?

Apply faster with the quick apply form for current University of Liverpool students.

Need help applying?

Our how to apply pages provide further information about applying online for our taught postgraduate courses.

If you are unable to apply via our online form, or need further support, please contact the postgraduate enquiries team.

International students

Apply for this course by:

There is no fee to apply for our courses. However, once you’ve been made an offer to study with us you are required to pay a fee deposit.

What you'll need

As part of the application process, you'll need to submit:

  • School or college transcripts/certificates
  • University transcripts and certified translations if applicable
  • Degree certificates
  • Evidence of English Language proficiency (EU and international applicants only)
  • Personal statement outlining your learning ambitions.

Our application process

  1. Sign into the University of Liverpool Application Portal and start your application
  2. Submit your application
  3. We'll email you to let you know we're processing your application
  4. Track the progress of your application using the Postgraduate Application Tracker (we'll send you a link to the tracker)
  5. We'll email you when a decision has been made
  6. If you've been made an offer, you can then accept or decline it using the Postgraduate Application Tracker.

Already a University of Liverpool student?

Apply faster with the quick apply form for current University of Liverpool students.

Need help applying?

We provide further information about applying online.

If you are unable to apply via our online form, or need further support, please contact the postgraduate enquiries team.

Combine this subject

With a combined degree, you can study two subjects as part of the same degree programme.

  • Choose from 30 subjects and over 300 combinations
  • Choose joint or major minor subjects
  • Adjust the weight of your subjects at the end of your first year
  • Same number of credits as single honours students
  • Same classes as single honours students
  • Appeal to a wide range of employers

Explore combined degrees for Architecture, Building and Planning courses

Let's stay in touch

Want to hear updates from us? Fill out the form below to receive invites to future events and information about studying at the University of Liverpool, through the communications channels selected. Following submission, you can opt out by contacting our enquiries team.

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Change country or region

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About this course

This programme addresses the growing demand for qualified professionals who can harness the opportunities presented by rapid urban development, whilst safeguarding heritage assets and preserving the individual identities of expanding cities.


Introduction

The fastest growing cities are in the Global South. Both tangible and intangible heritage assets are at risk in cities globally, as they’re often the first casualties of urban transformation projects, particularly in coastal cities where land values are high. Consequently, there’s an urgent need for academic and technical expertise to address the issues associated with urban development and heritage management in a more integrated manner, benefitting both society and planet.

This multi-disciplinary programme integrates architecture, urban planning, urban policy and practice, history, sustainability and social sciences, and considers the impact of globalisation and the climate crisis. You’ll explore the fundamentals of global urbanisation and heritage, and examine patterns of heritage development, conservation, policy and practice. Through a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, you’ll come to understand the role, influence and impact of historic and contemporary heritage (and heritage at risk) on urban trajectories.

Heritage is a core research pillar of the University of Liverpool, and the Liverpool School of Architecture is at the forefront of research in architecture, planning and heritage. The International Urbanism and Coastal Heritage Lab (UCH Lab), Architecture Heritage and Urbanism of West Africa Research Centre, The Heritage Institute and other research centres affiliated to the School contribute to this research field in UK, European contexts and further afield. Collectively, their contributions have produced documents and designs, technological and policy initiatives.

Please note: this course is subject to approval for entry 2026/27 and may be subject to change.


What you'll learn

  • Knowledge of the concepts, theories, and principles guiding urbanisation, sustainable development and urban governance
  • Understanding of the historical, cultural and socio-political factors that influence urban development and transformation
  • Insight into the complexities of cultural heritage in an increasingly globalised world, including challenges in heritage preservation and conservation
  • Understanding of the relationship between heritage and sustainability issues
  • Research and writing skills that will enable you to undertake an independent project (i.e. dissertation or design thesis)
  • Presentation, teamwork and time management skills.
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Course content

Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.

Semester one
Semester two

You’ll take two compulsory modules and choose optional modules amounting to 30 credits.

Students wishing to take HIST530 must have completed the pre-requisite module HLAC520 in semester one.

Final project

Over the summer period, you’ll complete a dissertation worth 60 credits.

Modules

Compulsory modules Credits
THESIS: DISSERTATION (ARCH721) 60

Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.

Teaching and assessment

How you'll learn

Teaching takes place primarily on campus and occasionally online, via Teams or other software platforms. The online teaching will be primarily undertaken as part of our collaboration with the University of Lagos, which will entail staff involvement from the Institute of African and Diaspora Studies at the University of Lagos contributing as guest lecturers. It’ll be further enriched through the contributions of other invited guest lecturers and stakeholders from industry, institutions and relevant organisations.

Lectures will be supplemented by tutorials and seminars (taking place on a weekly basis), workshops and studio work. Students are required to continuously engage in group work, and there will be opportunities for fieldwork.

How you're assessed

The assessment strategy is focused on authentic assessment, designed to help you develop creative problem-solving skills, teamwork skills and advanced research skills.

This programme addresses the global need for interdisciplinary expertise in urban planning, cultural heritage management, and sustainable development. Graduates will be equipped with the skillset necessary for contributing to policy and practice initiatives related to urban transformation, cultural heritage preservation and sustainability.

Liverpool Hallmarks

We have a distinctive approach to education, the Liverpool Curriculum Framework, which focuses on research-connected teaching, active learning, and authentic assessment to ensure our students graduate as digitally fluent and confident global citizens.

The Liverpool Curriculum framework sets out our distinctive approach to education. Our teaching staff support our students to develop academic knowledge, skills, and understanding alongside our graduate attributes:

  • Digital fluency
  • Confidence
  • Global citizenship

Our curriculum is characterised by the three Liverpool Hallmarks:

  • Research-connected teaching
  • Active learning
  • Authentic assessment

All this is underpinned by our core value of inclusivity and commitment to providing a curriculum that is accessible to all students.

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Course options

Studying with us means you can tailor your degree to suit you. Here's what is available on this course.

Gain a Postgraduate Certificate

If you enrol on a master’s degree and complete 60 credits you may be able to exit the programme early and earn a Postgraduate Certificate (PGCert) for the work you have completed. This usually amounts to one semester when completed full-time.

Gain a Postgraduate Diploma

If you enrol on a master’s degree and have completed 120 credits you may be able to exit the programme early and earn a Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) for the work completed. This usually amounts to two full semesters when completed full-time, without having to complete the final dissertation module.

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Your experience

The Liverpool School of Architecture benefits from comfortable, well-lit studio, work and seminar/review spaces, including a ‘hi-tech’ design studio, to which you will have 24-hour access.

Our facilities include a Print Media Design Suite, computing labs, workshops, a laser suite, a CNC router room, 3D printers, computing labs and research labs. A team of dedicated technicians will help you to get the most of these facilities and to realise your ideas.

Virtual tour

Supporting your learning

From arrival to alumni, we’re with you all the way:

Why study Architecture at Liverpool?

  • Established in 1894, the Liverpool School of Architecture was the first university in the UK to award a RIBA-accredited degree in Architecture
  • As one of the UK’s premier centres for architectural research and education, the Liverpool School of Architecture is the ideal place to pursue your architecture studies
  • We are ranked 3rd in the UK for Architecture (The Guardian University Guide 2025) and 7th in the Times and Sunday Times Higher Education Good University Guide 2025. We are also currently ranked within the world top 100 for Architecture (QS World University Rankings 2025).
  • In the latest Research Excellence Framework assessment (REF 2021), we were rated 5th in the sector for overall research classified as world leading (4*) or internationally excellent (3*).
  • We are strongly focused on research, and have many leading architectural experts based amongst our teaching staff
  • Our membership of the School of the Arts and wider University presents intriguing specialist opportunities, in fields such as autonomous building systems, arts and building design, and climate change risk mitigation
  • Work is underway on a major refurbishment of our premises, which will comprise a new-build addition of more than 2,000M. The £23 million scheme has been designed by Dublin-based architects O’Donnell + Tuomey, and is expected to be completed by 2026.
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Careers and employability

This programme addresses the global need for interdisciplinary expertise in urban planning, cultural heritage management, and sustainable development. Graduates will be equipped with the skillset necessary for contributing to policy and practice initiatives related to urban transformation, cultural heritage preservation and sustainability.

Graduates may find employment in local and national governments, NGOs, cultural institutions, and urban development firms. The programme also provides a solid foundation for individuals wishing to pursue further research in urban regeneration, heritage conservation, sustainable development or global urban policy.


Career support from day one to graduation and beyond

Career planning

Our campus Career Studio is a space for students and graduates to drop into and talk to a career coach. Career coaches are highly trained to help no matter what stage you are at in your career planning. You can access support to find and apply for full-time and part-time roles, placements, internships and graduate schemes. You will also find the help you need if you have a start-up idea or want to create a business plan. You can explore the world of work, prepare for job interviews, and access careers events and workshops. The Career Studio is open Monday to Friday from 10am-5pm, simply drop in at a time that works for you.

From education to employment

We develop our programmes with employers in mind. You will be supported to enhance your long-term employment prospects as you learn. We do this by exposing you to professionals, a variety of sectors and supporting you to work collaboratively with others to develop transferable skills. You are equipped with a clearer view of what to focus on in your area of interest, and to reflect on your studies. Our digital employability tools give you a tech-enhanced curriculum experience and make it easy for you to prepare for the world of work. You can use tools like the Handshake platform to connect with employers and message the Career Studio 24/7.

Networking events

You can start building good professional networks by attending events and employability activities. Our events are designed to develop your skills and expose you to many different employers, as well as to help you make contacts in your field. We help you improve your confidence when speaking to employers and give you access to unique opportunities. Our networking events also boost your understanding of the competencies and skills that employers are looking for in their recruitment process, giving you a competitive edge.

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My qualifications are from United Kingdom.

Fees and funding

Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.

Tuition fees

UK fees (applies to Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland)

Full-time place, per year - £11,700

International fees

Full-time place, per year - £26,600

Fees stated are for the 2025-26 academic year. Tuition fees for the academic year 2026-27 will be announced soon.

Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching and assessment, operating facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support.

If you're a UK national, or have settled status in the UK, you may be eligible to apply for a Postgraduate Loan worth up to £12,167 to help with course fees and living costs. Learn more about paying for your studies.


Additional costs

Optional field trips within the UK: up to £300
Drawing and model-making materials: up to £300.

Find out more about the additional study costs that may apply to this course.


Scholarships and bursaries

We offer a range of scholarships and bursaries that could help pay your tuition and living expenses.

Graduate Loyalty Advancement Scholarship

Please note that this scholarship is only available for master's courses starting in January 2026.

John Lennon Memorial Scholarship

If you’re a UK student, either born in or with strong family connections to Merseyside, you could be eligible to apply for a fee discount of up to £4,500. You’ll need to demonstrate an active interest in global, community and environmental issues to be considered.

Postgraduate Opportunity Bursary

If you’re a UK University of Liverpool graduate joining a master’s degree with us, you could be eligible to receive £3,000 off your tuition fees. You must have graduated in the last two years and received a widening access scholarship during your undergraduate studies.

Sport Liverpool Performance Programme

Apply to receive tailored training support to enhance your sporting performance. Our athlete support package includes a range of benefits, from bespoke strength and conditioning training to physiotherapy sessions and one-to-one nutritional advice.

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My qualifications are from United Kingdom.

Entry requirements

The qualifications and exam results you'll need to apply for this course.

Qualification Details
Postgraduate entry requirements

We require a 2:2 (or equivalent from an overseas institution) in Urban and Regional Planning, Architecture, Urban Studies, Area Studies, Demography and Population studies, Development Studies, Sociology, History, Geography, Archaeology or another closely related discipline.

A minimum of one year’s work experience in a relevant field is desirable, but not essential.

All candidates are required to submit a CV and a personal statement highlighting experience and motivation in applying for the programme. Applicants with non-traditional qualifications, but requisite experience, may be invited to interview.

International qualifications

Many countries have a different education system to that of the UK, meaning your qualifications may not meet our entry requirements. Completing your Foundation Certificate, such as that offered by the University of Liverpool International College, means you're guaranteed a place on your chosen course.


English language requirements

You'll need to demonstrate competence in the use of English language, unless you’re from a majority English speaking country.

We accept a variety of international language tests and country-specific qualifications.

International applicants who do not meet the minimum required standard of English language can complete one of our Pre-Sessional English courses to achieve the required level.

Qualification Details
IELTS 6.5 overall, with no component below 6.0
TOEFL iBT 88 overall, with minimum scores of listening 19, writing 19, reading 19 and speaking 20. TOEFL Home Edition not accepted.
Duolingo English Test 120 overall, with no component below 105 
Pearson PTE Academic 61 overall, with no component below 59  
LanguageCert Academic 70 overall, with no skill below 65 
PSI Skills for English B2 Pass with Merit in all bands 
INDIA Standard XII National Curriculum (CBSE/ISC) - 75% and above in English. Accepted State Boards - 80% and above in English.
WAEC C6 or above

Pre-sessional English

Do you need to complete a Pre-sessional English course to meet the English language requirements for this course?

The length of Pre-sessional English course you’ll need to take depends on your current level of English language ability.

Pre-sessional English in detail

If you don’t meet our English language requirements, we can use your most recent IELTS score, or the equivalent score in selected other English language tests, to determine the length of Pre-sessional English course you require.

Use the table below to check the course length you're likely to require for your current English language ability and see whether the course is available on campus or online.

Your most recent IELTS score Pre-sessional English course length On campus or online
6.0 overall, with no component below 6.0 6 weeks On campus
6.0 overall, with no component below 5.5 10 weeks On campus and online options available
6.0 overall, with no more than one component below 5.5, and no component below 5.0 12 weeks On campus and online options available
5.5 overall, with no more than one component below 5.5, and no component below 5.0 20 weeks On campus
5.0 overall, with no more than one component below 5.0, and no component below 4.5 30 weeks On campus
4.5 overall, with no more than one component below 4.5, and no component below 4.0 40 weeks On campus

If you’ve completed an alternative English language test to IELTS, we may be able to use this to assess your English language ability and determine the Pre-sessional English course length you require.

Please see our guide to Pre-sessional English entry requirements for IELTS 6.5 overall, with no component below 6.0, for further details.

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Entry requirements: which qualifications do you need?

More about life in Liverpool

Discover more about the city and University.

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Why study at Liverpool?

Liverpool bursts with diversity and creativity which makes it ideal for you to undertake your postgraduate studies and access various opportunities for you and your family.

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Accommodation

To fully immerse yourself in the university experience living in halls will keep you close to campus where you can always meet new people. Find your home away from home.

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Fees and Finance

Discover what expenses are covered by the cost of your tuition fees and other finance-related information you may need regarding your studies at Liverpool.


Contact us

Have a question about this course or studying with us? Our dedicated enquiries team can help.

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Last updated 1 October 2025 / Programme terms and conditions

Changes to Global Urbanism and Heritage MSc

See what updates we've made to this course since it was published. We document changes to information such as course content, entry requirements and how you'll be taught.