Study Fee: Click here to view the t(/study-fee)uition and subscription options.(/study-fee)(/study-fee) Monthly study plans start from €499 per month, depending on the program and level of academic support selected.

Study Method: This program is delivered 100% online, allowing students to study from anywhere in the world with flexible scheduling. Students may also have the option to attend the graduation ceremony in Switzerland, subject to visa approval and travel regulations.

Study Language: The program is delivered in English. Students are expected to have sufficient English language proficiency to complete the coursework and academic requirements.

Applications can be submitted online through our admission portal.(/apply)(/apply) Applicants may also contact or visit our offices in different regions, including: • Europe: Switzerland • GCC: Dubai (UAE) • Asia: Bishkek Our admissions team will guide you through the application and enrollment process.

Programs are offered through a flexible monthly subscription system, allowing students to progress at their own pace while maintaining access to academic resources and support services.

This program has a minimum study period depending on the academic level and program structure. Students may complete the program at their own pace while maintaining an active monthly subscription.

Admission Requirements

Applicants should meet the academic entry requirements for the respective program level. Typical requirements may include: • A previous academic qualification relevant to the program level • A copy of passport or national ID • Curriculum Vitae (CV) or resume • Completed online application form Additional documents may be requested depending on the program and the institution delivering the program.

Certification / Degree Awarded

Upon successful completion of all academic requirements, students will receive the corresponding certificate or academic degree issued by the responsible institution within the VBNN Smart Education Group network.

Doctorate in Urban Design and Development

Feb 24
2 min read

This doctorate study program is an advanced, research-intensive academic pathway designed for professionals, scholars, and policy leaders who aim to shape the future of cities through innovative, sustainable, and evidence-based urban transformation. Positioned at a study level equal to EQF Level 8 and aligned with the third European cycle, the program represents the highest level of academic specialization in the field of urban design and development.

Urban environments are increasingly complex systems influenced by climate change, demographic shifts, infrastructure demands, smart technologies, mobility networks, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability. This 100% research-based program equips candidates with advanced theoretical frameworks and methodological expertise to critically examine urban systems, develop resilient spatial strategies, and contribute original research that advances sustainable city development worldwide.

The program is structured into seven modules:

Four research-focused modules dedicated to advanced research design, quantitative and qualitative methodologies, spatial analytics, policy evaluation, academic publishing, and theoretical model development.
Two general modules that strengthen strategic leadership, governance structures, innovation management, and global urban policy perspectives.
One specialized module in Urban Design and Development, addressing sustainable urban planning models, smart city frameworks, infrastructure systems, environmental integration, public space design, mobility planning, and long-term urban resilience.

The program culminates in a thesis and comprehensive research activities aimed at producing an original and meaningful contribution to the discipline of urban design and development.

With a duration of +18 months (minimum duration), the program offers academic flexibility, allowing participants to extend their studies when necessary to support the depth and quality of their research.

This doctorate study program is particularly suited for senior urban planners, architects, civil engineers, infrastructure strategists, sustainability consultants, government advisors, and academic researchers who aspire to influence the future direction of urban policy, planning, and design through high-level scholarly work.