University of Basel

Overview

The Master’s programme in Critical Urbanisms at the University of Basel offers an in-depth exploration of the complex factors that influence urban development. This English-taught course emphasizes the interplay of social, political, economic, and cultural forces in shaping cities. Through a blend of interdisciplinary coursework and research-driven semesters, students gain valuable insights into urban life, particularly within transregional and postcolonial contexts.

• Degree: Master of Arts
• Language of instruction: English
• Location: University of Basel, Switzerland, with opportunities for international research
• Programme focus: Critical and interdisciplinary urban studies, including postcolonial and transregional perspectives, fieldwork, and research methodologies
• International research option: A semester at the University of Cape Town (subject to availability)
• Alternative research option: A transregional research semester combining both local and international fieldwork
• Additional option: A one-year course in anthropological fieldwork methods, including a research trip
• Research Studio: Engages students in collaborative, interdisciplinary research practices with a focus on visual and spatial analysis

What you'll study

The programme is structured around interdisciplinary teaching and research-oriented semesters. The following outlines the key components of the curriculum:

• Semester 1 (core methods and foundations): Courses include "Ways of Knowing the City," "Urbanism from the South," and "Urbanism across Geographies."
• Semester 2 (research options): Focus on "Anthropological Fieldwork" and/or "Interdisciplinary Urban Research," allowing for international or transregional fieldwork opportunities.
• Semester 3 (Research Studio): A collaborative workshop setting exploring "The Urban across Disciplines," integrating methods from the humanities and social sciences with visual and spatial analysis.

Research outputs: Students may produce a range of research materials, including essays, graphic publications, maps, diagrams, photo projects, videos, and installations, depending on their specific projects and teams.

Entry requirements

Admission to the programme requires a prior degree that qualifies for entry into the Master’s level within the higher education system of the institution where it was obtained. The University of Basel may request evidence of eligibility for the specific Master’s programme.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Critical Urbanisms programme are well-prepared for a variety of careers in urban planning, policy analysis, research, and community development. The interdisciplinary approach equips students with critical thinking skills and practical methodologies applicable to diverse roles within academia, government, NGOs, and private sector organizations focused on urban issues.