Academic Programs

Students building something.


Gain a competitive edge with hands-on, interdisciplinary learning opportunities and industry partnerships designed to equip students with leadership, entrepreneurial skills, and practical experience in urban development.
 

Studying Highlights

Program Spotlights

Master of Future Cities

Who is this program for? 

This program is ideal for forward-thinking professionals and students eager to lead in urban transformation and shape sustainable, resilient cities.
 

What will you gain from this program? 

  • Critical Thinking: Develop a deep understanding of complex urban issues and devise innovative solutions. 

  • Policy Formulation: Craft impactful policies to drive meaningful change in cities. 

  • Design Thinking: Apply creative problem-solving techniques to address urban challenges. 

  • Policy Impact Assessment: Evaluate and measure the real-world effects of urban policies and initiatives.
     

Experiential Learning Opportunities  

International Field School 

Building on their learning in Systems and Futures thinking, students will travel to one or more cities that showcase leading-edge sustainability solutions and provide innovative, resilient strategies to prepare for a changing world.  

Note: this course will include an additional field trip fee to cover the cost of travel and accommodation, the amount will vary depending on the location.
 

Career Path 

Graduates of the Master of Future Cities program are equipped for leadership roles such as: 

  • Urban Planner 

  • Policy Advisor 

  • Sustainability Consultant 

  • City Manager 

  • Smart Cities Strategist, among others. 

These roles empower graduates to shape sustainable, innovative urban futures.
 

Program link 

Master of Future Cities | Environment | University of Waterloo (uwaterloo.ca)
 

Program Contact:  

Cynthiya Subramaniam 

env-mfc@uwaterloo.ca 

Master of Engineering, Civil Engineering, with a Specialization in Future Cities

“Information coming soon” 

Diploma in Future Cities

Who is this program for? 

This program is open to students enrolled in degree programs or those pursuing non- or post-degree academic pathways.
 

What will you gain from this program? 

  • Gain skills in urban sustainability, governance, and technology to shape future cities. 

  • Master interdisciplinary strategies for tackling urban challenges through design, planning, policy, and innovation. 
     

Program link: 

Diploma in Future Cities (uwaterloo.ca)
 

Program Contact:  

Brittany Woodhall 

brittany.woodhall@uwaterloo.ca