Course Description

"Sustainable Cities" is an innovative and comprehensive course that delves into the critical challenges and immense opportunities presented by rapid urban growth worldwide. As we face an estimated influx of three billion people into cities by 2050, this course equips students with the knowledge and tools to understand and address the complex issues surrounding urban sustainability, productivity, and inclusivity.

What students will learn

• A thorough understanding of urban systems, including governance, land management, and utilities
• The impact of social issues such as poverty, health, and economic opportunity on urban development
• The role of technology in shaping modern cities, particularly in areas like transportation, energy, and urban resilience
• In-depth case studies of major cities in both developed and developing nations
• Strategies for implementing sustainable urban development in line with the UN's Sustainable Development Goal 11

Pre-requisites

This course is designed for intermediate-level learners and does not have any specific prerequisites. However, a general interest in sustainable development, urban planning, or related fields would be beneficial.

Course Coverage

• Urban governance and planning
• Poverty reduction and social inclusion in cities
• Economic productivity and inequality in urban areas
• Human development challenges in urban settings
• Provision of universal urban services and infrastructure
• Urban resilience and environmental sustainability
• Implementation of sustainable urban development strategies

Who this course is for

• Individuals interested in sustainable urban development and community improvement
• Graduate and advanced undergraduate students in fields such as architecture, real estate development, sustainable development, public policy, and international development
• Sustainable development practitioners seeking to expand their knowledge of urban sustainability
• Private-sector professionals working in industries that impact urban development, such as real estate, technology, telecommunications, transportation, and energy

Real-world applications

• Urban planning and policy development
• Designing and implementing sustainable infrastructure projects
• Creating strategies for poverty reduction and social inclusion in cities
• Developing resilience plans for urban areas facing environmental challenges
• Advising businesses on sustainable practices in urban settings
• Participating in international development initiatives focused on urban sustainability

Syllabus