Course Curriculum

The MSc in Smart and Sustainable Cities at Trinity College Dublin offers a dynamic and multidisciplinary curriculum comprising seven compulsory core modules and a selection of electives that allow for tailored academic exploration. The core modules include Urban Governance, Smart Eco-Cities of the Future, Geographical Information Systems (GIS), Urban Sustainability, Introduction to Machine Learning, Research Methods, a mandatory Fieldtrip, a Placement, and a Dissertation. These modules are designed to provide a solid foundation in urban planning, technological innovation, and environmental sustainability, equipping students with the tools to critically engage with the design, function, and impact of smart cities.In addition to the core modules, students choose three elective modules from a diverse list, allowing them to deepen their knowledge in specific areas of interest. Options include Transportation Policy, Transportation Modelling & Planning, Energy Policy & Building Energy Demand, Urban Computing, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Environmental Policies, Human Interaction with Biodiversity, and Climate Justice, Climate Change & Development. Students interested in technical electives such as Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, or Urban Computing are advised to have prior experience in related fields and consult with the course director before enrolling.A key feature of the programme is the mandatory field trip, designed to bridge theoretical learning with real-world experience. For the upcoming academic year, the field trip will be held in Amsterdam, The Netherlands—a city renowned for its history of urban innovation and sustainable governance. This immersive experience allows students to observe and analyse smart and sustainable practices in context, while also enhancing their practical skills in data collection and field research. The combination of core theoretical training, applied learning, and international exposure makes this programme especially relevant for students aspiring to work at the intersection of urban development, sustainability, and technology.