The University of Michigan Center for Innovation in Detroit, in partnership with the University of Michigan's Taubman College of Architecture and Urban Planning, offers the Master of Urban Technology (MUT), the first graduate degree to launch at UMCI.
Our buildings, neighborhoods, infrastructure, and cities make up what is known as the built environment. The MUT degree brings together technology, data, design, and business to explore new ways to understand and improve the built environment.
Learn in Detroit
Study urban technology in a city where the built environment is actively evolving. Across Detroit's 142 square miles, new housing, public spaces and commercial districts are taking shape alongside established neighborhoods, historic infrastructure and opportunities for redevelopment.
Through coursework, projects, studios and learning journeys, areas of focus include:
- Understanding the economic and policy systems that shape the built environment.
- Using AI and other technologies to analyze challenges and inform decisions.
- Applying evidence-based design approaches to sustainability, health and wellness, and other areas of impact.
- Exploring entrepreneurship, new business models and innovation within existing organizations.
- Connecting with organizations, practitioners and community leaders through learning journeys in Detroit, the Midwest and Copenhagen.
The program culminates in a capstone addressing a real built environment challenge. Students may work within a company in downtown Detroit or collaborate with a small team to develop and prototype a startup.
Admissions, tuition and financial aid
Find application requirements, deadlines, tuition estimates and financial aid information for the Master of Urban Technology.
Application deadlines
Fall 2027 enrollment
- Early action: December 15, 2026
- Regular decision: February 15, 2027
- Final round: April 15, 2027
Applications are managed through Taubman College. Review the full admissions requirements and application instructions.
Admissions requirements
The Master of Urban Technology welcomes professionals and recent graduates from a range of backgrounds, including architecture, urban planning, engineering, real estate, construction, design and related fields.
The program aims to build a cohort in which most students bring at least three years of professional experience, creating opportunities to learn from peers across industries and disciplines. Recent graduates are also encouraged to apply.
Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree or equivalent from an accredited institution. A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 is expected, although applicants below this threshold may be considered through holistic review.
Application materials include:
- Academic transcripts
- Resume or CV
- Personal essay
- Two letters of recommendation
GRE scores are not required. Additional requirements may apply, including English proficiency requirements for some applicants.
International applicants
The Master of Urban Technology program is not currently able to support applicants who require an I-20 for an F-1 student visa. International applicants who do not require F-1 sponsorship should review Taubman College's admissions requirements for eligibility.
Tuition and financial aid
Estimated tuition and mandatory fees for the 2027–28 academic year are:
- Michigan residents: $64,914
- Nonresidents: $98,772
Living expenses, transportation, and personal expenses are additional.
Taubman College offers merit-based scholarships to incoming MUT students. The application for admission also serves as the scholarship application. Apply by December 15 for priority scholarship consideration.
Eligible students may also apply for federal financial aid through the FAFSA.
Explore tuition, scholarships and financial aid at Taubman College.
Still have questions?
Schedule a one-on-one conversation with the MUT team to discuss admissions or learn more about the program.
Interested in MUT but not ready to apply?
Stay connected for program updates, admissions information and upcoming opportunities.