“I want to empower students to leverage AI so that they can lead with curiosity and empathy in undertaking socially relevant, ecologically minded work.”
“I want to leverage the scaling capacity of technology so that people can lead the lives they want.”
“I want to create a future in which designers have the business and tech chops to make their ideas happen.”
Last September, a group of Taubman College faculty, alumni, and advisers convened to develop a new graduate degree addressing emerging needs in architecture, planning, and real estate. This collaborative effort aimed to transform educational experiences and equip students to lead changes in these fields.
Through engaging with faculty and industry experts, they employed design thinking to prioritize goals. The initiative aimed to answer: How can we equip students to shape the built environment beyond existing roles? A new one-year graduate program emerged, focusing on systems and business models to advance housing, water, and mobility. This program distinguishes itself by leveraging technology to enhance student agency and entrepreneurial skills.
The new Master of Urban Technology, pending approval, is set for a fall 2027 launch. It will cater to the growing field where data and technology optimize urban living. Aligned with Michigan’s impact areas, it builds on Taubman College’s success with its first-of-a-kind undergraduate degree.
The Bachelor of Science in Urban Technology, launched in 2021, provides a tech-focused liberal arts education for the urban era, emphasizing user-centered design and collaborative learning. In 2025, the college celebrated its first graduates and welcomed a new cohort, exceeding enrollment targets. Four new faculty members were also recruited to further enhance the program.
The master’s degree will be among the first offerings at the University of Michigan Center for Innovation, opening in Detroit in 2027. This center aims to bolster Detroit and Michigan through advanced learning in technology and entrepreneurship.
Designing the degree, together
The development process for this degree involved innovative practices. Faculty workshops incorporated job market data and student preferences for program attributes. Industry experts and AI tools further informed the degree’s creation.
The program design involved collaboration with the U-M alumni network. Faculty engaged with industry leaders to explore innovations in energy grids, modular construction, and urban management. This collaboration highlights the strength of Taubman College’s connections to alumni shaping various fields.
As AI reshapes industries and education, the emphasis on experiential learning and relationship-building becomes more significant. U-M’s network and resources are invaluable in navigating these changes.
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