In a world undergoing profound transformation through cascading crises, space continues to be contested yet critical to shaping just and sustainable futures. The Advanced Master of Human Settlements (MaHS) invites passionate and inquisitive spatial thinkers, researchers, and designers to join a rigorous one-year journey exploring the challenges and opportunities of our rapidly urbanising planet.
This intensive 60-credit, two-semester postgraduate program, offered by the International Center for Urbanism (ICfU), equips students to understand and intervene in human settlements through RESEARCH, ACTION, and DESIGN. Built on a foundation of ongoing, globally engaged research, MaHS challenges students to critically analyze space as a medium for advocacy and a site for imagining alternative futures rooted in justice. Students of the program will study within a dynamic international community of faculty, guest experts and alumni enriched by VLIR-UOS partnerships and collaborations with universities in Vietnam, Palestine, Ecuador and South Africa, amongst others. The program operates in parallel with ongoing doctoral research in urbanism, landscape, and planning—an environment where seminars (including the annual World Urbanisms Seminar), workshops, fieldwork, and design practice intersect to create a uniquely fertile ground for intellectual and professional growth.
If you are eager to engage deeply with the complexities of contemporary urban transformation, to position yourself within the field of critical urbanism, and to develop spatial strategies for a more equitable future, we invite you to apply. Discover more about the program, explore student and alumni work, and stay updated on events and opportunities via our website and social media channels.
All application instructions can be found here. Please note the following application deadlines:
VLIR-UOS Scholarship applicants must apply by February 15, 2026
Non-EEA nationals must apply by March 1, 2026
EEA nationals must apply by June 1, 2026
