Bachelor’s Programme in Urban Design for the City in Transition (UDCT), University of Palermo

Abstract

EVALUATION REPORT After an in-depth examination of its academic curriculum and teaching pedagogy, the Bachelor’s Programme in Urban Design for the City in Transition (UDCT), offered by the University of Palermo, has been conferred the AESOP Certificate of Quality.

The programme was evaluated by two members of the AESOP Excellence in Education Board (EEB) appointed by the Chair. The EEB certifies that the above programme fulfils the Quality Recognition criteria.

The UDCT is a bachelor-level programme addressing planning and design in transitional urban contexts, with a focus on cultural heritage, sustainability, and social inclusion. It demonstrates an evolving international orientation and strong engagement with real-world challenges through collaborative learning, workshops, field activities, and interdisciplinary approaches.

The programme applies student-centred pedagogies, including hands-on studios, problem-based learning, peer-to-peer formats, and community engagement. It integrates cultural heritage with urban regeneration, promotes socially responsive urban design, and develops students’ research, decision-making, and collaborative skills through project-based and field-based learning.

The AESOP Certificate of Quality and this Evaluation Report are valid for six years (2025–2031). Date of certification: 26 October 2025