Redesigning the Post-Industrial City (RePIC)
The Master’s in Redesigning the Post-Industrial City (RePIC) at Ruhr University Bochum is a prestigious international graduate program jointly offered by eight European partner universities as part of the UNIC network. Designed for students aiming to advance their expertise in urban transformation, sustainable city planning, and social justice, this full-time program combines academic depth with practical, project-based learning. Students gain hands-on experience in urban analysis, governance of post-industrial cities, and resilience planning, preparing them for advanced roles in urban design, landscape architecture, and planning. The program is structured across four semesters and admits students exclusively in the winter semester.
Located in Bochum and connected with partner institutions across Europe, this master’s program emphasizes both interdisciplinary collaboration and international networking. With a strong focus on sustainable and smart city solutions, social diversity, and innovative urban strategies, students not only develop critical analytical and design skills but also benefit from exposure to diverse European urban contexts. The program reflects Germany’s and Europe’s commitment to combining academic quality with professional relevance, making it an excellent choice for those seeking to specialize in post-industrial urban transformation on a global scale.
Key information
Key Facts
- Degree: Master of Science (M.Sc.)
- Standard period of study: 4 semesters
- Location: Bochum
- Study Type: Graduate (full-time, international)
- Admission semester: Winter semester only
- Area of study: Landscape Architecture, Architecture, Geography
- Admission modus: Selection procedure / qualifying examination
- Main language: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations of Urban Transformation
- Urban Design and Planning Principles
- Introduction to Post-Industrial City Studies
- Social Justice and Diversity in Urban Contexts
- Research Methods in Urban Analysis
Semester 2 – Urban Analysis & Sustainability
- Smart and Sustainable City Planning
- Resilience and Climate Adaptation Strategies
- GIS and Spatial Analysis Techniques
- Collaborative Project I (local or international case study)
Semester 3 – International Collaboration & Specialization
- Urban Governance and Policy Studies
- Interdisciplinary Design Workshops
- Collaborative Project II (partnered with UNIC universities)
- Electives in Landscape Architecture, Geography, or Urban Planning
Semester 4 – Master’s Thesis & Final Project
- Independent Research or Design Thesis
- Development of a Final Urban Project
- Presentation & Portfolio Development
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Redesigning the Post-Industrial City (RePIC) program are equipped for a wide range of roles in urban planning, landscape architecture, sustainable development, and policy-making. Career paths include urban designer, city planner, resilience consultant, sustainability advisor, and researcher in international or governmental organizations. The program’s strong international network across eight European universities provides students with exceptional opportunities to engage with urban projects, research collaborations, and global professional networks.
Why Choose This Program
The Redesigning the Post-Industrial City (RePIC) program offers a unique, internationally oriented curriculum that combines rigorous academic training with hands-on, project-based learning. Students work on real-world urban challenges, collaborating across disciplines such as architecture, landscape design, urban planning, and geography. The program’s focus on sustainable, resilient, and socially inclusive cities equips graduates with the skills needed to address contemporary urban transformations effectively.
Its distinctive strength lies in the joint degree structure across eight UNIC partner universities, providing students with exposure to diverse European urban contexts and practices. Participants gain valuable international experience, develop interdisciplinary problem-solving abilities, and build a professional network that spans academia, public administration, and industry, preparing them for leadership roles in urban development worldwide.
Contact Information
Ruhr University Bochum – Student Advisory Service
Universitätsstraße 150, 44801
Bochum, Germany
Tel: +49 234 32-22435
Fax: +49 234 32-14473
Email: zsb@rub.de
Programme Contact – Faculty of Geosciences, Geographical Institute
Universitätsstraße 150, 44780
Bochum, Germany
Contact: Dr. Matthias Falke
Tel: +49 234 32-25533
Email: imosat@rub.de
International Office – Ruhr University Bochum
Universitätsstraße 150, 44780
Bochum, Germany
Tel: +49 234 32-20620
Fax: +49 234 32-14684
Email: international@rub.de
