Transforming City Regions
The Master of Science in Transforming City Regions at RWTH Aachen University is an interdisciplinary graduate program designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to address the complex challenges of urban transformation. Combining expertise from urban planning, engineering, economics, and social sciences, the program emphasizes analytical methods, solution development, and evaluation of sustainable urban practices in a global context. It is structured across four semesters and admits students exclusively in the winter semester.
Located in Aachen, one of Germany’s leading technical and research hubs, this program offers a unique blend of academic rigor and practical relevance. Students benefit from international mobility opportunities, including a third-semester study abroad at partner universities, hands-on projects, and collaborative research initiatives. Graduates are prepared for advanced roles in urban planning, sustainable development, and policy-making, contributing to the transformation of urban regions worldwide.
Key information
Key Facts
- Degree: Master of Science (M.Sc.)
- Standard period of study: 4 semesters
- Location: Aachen, Germany
- Study Type: Graduate (full-time, international)
- Admission semester: Winter semester only
- Area of study: Urban Planning, Sustainable Development, Regional Transformation, Social Sciences
- Admission modus: Without admission restriction
- Main language: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations of Urban and Regional Transformation
- Introduction to Urban Planning and Development
- Principles of Sustainable Cities
- Quantitative Methods for Urban Analysis
- Environmental and Social Impact Assessment
- Policy and Governance in Urban Contexts
Semester 2 – Advanced Methods and Applications
- Urban Infrastructure and Energy Systems
- Regional Economic Development
- Participatory Planning and Stakeholder Engagement
- Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for Urban Studies
- Elective Modules (e.g., Smart Cities, Resilient Urban Design)
Semester 3 – International Mobility & Applied Research
- Study Abroad at Partner Institutions
- Applied Research Project in Urban or Regional Development
- Interdisciplinary Case Studies
- Data Analysis and Scientific Communication
Semester 4 – Master’s Thesis & Final Project
- Independent Research in Urban Transformation
- Thesis Preparation and Fieldwork/Simulation
- Presentation of Results & Portfolio Development
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Master of Science in Transforming City Regions are prepared for a wide range of roles in urban planning, regional development, and sustainable city management. Career paths include Urban Planner, Regional Development Consultant, Sustainability Coordinator, Policy Advisor, and Project Manager for municipalities or international organizations. Students benefit from RWTH Aachen’s strong networks with industry, research institutions, and governmental bodies, gaining opportunities to contribute to innovative urban transformation projects worldwide.
Why Choose This Program
Choosing the Master of Science in Transforming City Regions means joining a program that combines academic excellence with practical experience. Offered by RWTH Aachen University, it provides students with access to interdisciplinary expertise, hands-on projects, and international mobility opportunities.
The program’s unique strength lies in its integration of urban planning, social sciences, and engineering perspectives, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration. Students not only develop technical and analytical skills but also cultivate strategic thinking, leadership, and problem-solving abilities necessary to drive sustainable transformation in urban and regional contexts.
Contact Information
RWTH Business School – Program Office
Kackertstraße 10
52072 Aachen, Germany
Tel: +49 241 80-99367
Email: info@business-school.rwth-aachen.de
Institute for Urban and Regional Transformation – Academic Contact
Wüllnerstraße 7
52062 Aachen, Germany
Tel: +49 241 80-98210
Email: transforming-city@rwth-aachen.de
RWTH Aachen University – International Office
Templergraben 57
52062 Aachen, Germany
Tel: +49 241 80-90125
Email: international@rwth-aachen.de
