Learning by Design in an International Urban Planning and Policy Design Master Program

Abstract

This paper presents a teaching experience in urban design and planning at the Politecnico di Milano, where the School of Architecture offers a two-year Master of Science program in Urban Planning and Policy Design open to international students. Organised by semesters, the program combines introductory courses with advanced research activities. A key component is the Urban Design and Planning Studio, where students are encouraged to engage with experimental themes and innovative design approaches. Building on the “città di città” perspective developed at the Politecnico, urban planning and design are framed as processes that generate knowledge through survey, design, and imagination, rather than following a linear sequence. The Design Studio simulates complex professional design and research situations, guiding students through context analysis, identification of priorities, and production of strategies and territorial recomposition schemes. The paper is structured in three parts: the School’s pedagogical approach and internationalisation, the didactic principles and practices of the Design Studio, and a critical assessment of the results of studio activities.