Urban design courses can help you learn site analysis, spatial planning, community engagement, and sustainable development practices. You can build skills in creating inclusive public spaces, integrating green infrastructure, and understanding zoning regulations. Many courses introduce tools like GIS software for mapping and visualization, as well as design software for drafting urban layouts, that support translating concepts into actionable plans.

University of Amsterdam
Skills you'll gain: Community Organizing, Systems Thinking, Advocacy, Transportation Operations, Change Management, Community Development, Sustainable Development, Innovation, Policy Analysis, Public Policies, Case Studies, Experimentation, Creativity
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Johns Hopkins University
Skills you'll gain: Traffic Flow Optimization, Architectural Design, Sustainable Development, Stormwater Management, Building Codes, Community Development, Land Development, Public Works, Sustainable Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Transportation Operations, Civil Engineering, Case Studies, Environmental Engineering, Building Design, Economic Development, Land Management, Sustainable Design, Sustainable Technologies, Environmental Science
Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

Skills you'll gain: AutoCAD, Technical Drawing, Architectural Drawing, Engineering Documentation, Engineering Drawings, Geometric Dimensioning And Tolerancing, Electrical Equipment, Electrical Systems, Electrical Wiring, Architectural Design, Civil and Architectural Engineering, Electrical Power, Computer-Aided Design, Building Design, Drafting and Engineering Design, Building Codes, Blueprint Reading, AutoCAD Civil 3D, Basic Electrical Systems, Schematic Diagrams
Beginner · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

Lund University
Skills you'll gain: Sustainable Development, Climate Change Adaptation, Sustainable Design, Sustainable Technologies, Community Development, Governance, Socioeconomics, Water Sustainability, Environment, Sustainable Business, Social Impact, Systems Thinking, Environmental Issue, Environmental Science, Climate Change Mitigation, Case Studies, Water Resources, Multimedia, Business Modeling, Innovation
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne
Skills you'll gain: Energy and Utilities, Transportation Operations, Governance, Systems Thinking, Technology Roadmaps, Emerging Technologies, Technology Strategies, Innovation, Internet Of Things, Digital Transformation, Sustainable Systems, Case Studies
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Multiple educators
Skills you'll gain: Policy Analysis, Innovation, Systems Thinking, Storytelling, Visionary, Sociology, Social Sciences, Creative Thinking, Economics, Policy, and Social Studies, Social Impact, Sustainable Development, Sustainable Systems, Social Justice, Cultural Diversity, Critical Thinking, Case Studies, Environmental Science, Spatial Analysis, Human Centered Design, Public Policies
Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

University of Virginia
Skills you'll gain: Brainstorming, Design Thinking, Innovation, Ideation, Stakeholder Analysis, Creative Thinking, User Research, Human Centered Design, Design Research, Open Mindset, Project Scoping, Persona Development, Project Planning, Value Engineering, Product Development, Growth Mindedness, User Feedback, Customer experience improvement, Strategic Thinking, Creativity
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

University of Colorado Boulder
Skills you'll gain: Systems Thinking, Environmental Laws, Sustainable Development, Climate Change Adaptation, Community Development, Land Development, Social Impact, Sustainable Design, Social Justice, Stormwater Management, Environmental Policy, Policy Analysis, Sustainable Technologies, Public Works, Civil Engineering, Climate Change Mitigation, Public Policies, Socioeconomics, Environmental Issue, Environmental Science
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

Skills you'll gain: Architectural Drawing, AutoCAD, Architectural Design, Technical Drawing, Engineering Drawings, Civil and Architectural Engineering, Drafting and Engineering Design, Computer-Aided Design, Building Design, As-Built Drawings, AutoCAD Civil 3D, Architectural Engineering, Structural Engineering, Electrical Wiring, Structural Analysis, Functional Design, Conceptual Design, Layout Design, Construction Estimating, 3D Modeling
Beginner · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

The University of Sydney
Skills you'll gain: Design Thinking, Human Centered Design, Innovation, Service Design, Prototyping, Ideation, Product Development, Design, Case Studies, User Feedback
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

University of Virginia
Skills you'll gain: Design Thinking, Creative Problem-Solving, Ideation, Innovation, Creativity, Strategic Thinking, Case Studies, Market Opportunities, Human Centered Design, Curiosity, Storytelling, Growth Mindedness, Business Modeling
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Technical University of Munich (TUM)
Skills you'll gain: Social Impact, Experimentation, Program Evaluation, Community Development, Sustainable Development, Systems Thinking, Research, Human Centered Design, Culture, Cultural Diversity, Creative Problem-Solving, Case Studies, Critical Thinking
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Urban design is the process of shaping the physical setting for life in cities, towns, and regions. It involves the arrangement and design of buildings, public spaces, transport systems, services, and amenities. Urban design is crucial because it directly influences the quality of life for residents, impacts economic development, and addresses environmental sustainability. A well-designed urban environment can promote social interaction, enhance community identity, and improve accessibility to essential services.
A variety of career opportunities exist in urban design. Professionals can work as urban designers, city planners, landscape architects, or environmental planners. They may also find roles in government agencies, non-profit organizations, or private firms focusing on urban development. These positions often involve collaborating with architects, engineers, and community stakeholders to create functional and aesthetically pleasing urban spaces.
To succeed in urban design, you should develop a range of skills. Key competencies include spatial awareness, creativity, and technical skills in design software. Understanding urban planning principles, environmental sustainability, and community engagement strategies is also essential. Additionally, strong communication and collaboration skills will help you work effectively with various stakeholders in the urban design process.
There are several online courses available for those interested in urban design. Courses like HEALTHY URBAN SYSTEMS - PART 3 : Design and policies provide insights into the intersection of health and urban planning. Other options may include specialized programs focusing on urban planning principles, design software, and community engagement techniques.
Yes. You can start learning urban design on Coursera for free in two ways:
If you want to keep learning, earn a certificate in urban design, or unlock full course access after the preview or trial, you can upgrade or apply for financial aid.
To learn urban design, start by exploring online courses that cover the fundamentals of the field. Engage with practical projects to apply your knowledge and gain hands-on experience. Additionally, consider joining community workshops or local planning meetings to understand real-world applications. Networking with professionals in the field can also provide valuable insights and mentorship.
Urban design courses typically cover a range of topics, including urban planning principles, design theory, environmental sustainability, and community engagement. You may also learn about zoning laws, transportation systems, and the impact of urban design on public health. Courses often include case studies and practical projects to help you apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios.
For training and upskilling employees in urban design, consider courses that focus on practical applications and current trends in the field. Programs like HEALTHY URBAN SYSTEMS - PART 3 : Design and policies can be beneficial. Additionally, courses that emphasize collaboration and community engagement strategies are valuable for workforce development in urban design.