U-M to Launch First-of-Its-Kind Master of Urban Technology in Detroit

One-year program will equip urban innovators to transform cities through technology, design and entrepreneurship.

The University of Michigan’s Taubman College of Architecture and Urban Planning, in partnership with the University of Michigan Center for Innovation in Detroit (UMCI), has launched the new Master of Urban Technology (MUT), a one-year master’s degree that teaches students how to use AI in real estate, urban planning, architecture and construction, and how this technology is shifting the way value is created and captured.

The new graduate program builds on Taubman College’s successful Bachelor of Science in Urban Technology, launched in 2021 and based on the University of Michigan’s Ann Arbor campus.

Welcoming its first cohort in fall 2027, the interdisciplinary, industry-connected program will prepare students to transform the built environment and create real-world impact.

“We designed the Master of Urban Technology to equip students to shape the built environment beyond existing roles and degree pathways,” said Jonathan Massey, dean of Taubman College. “By combining systems thinking, AI and entrepreneurial skills, the program will empower students to improve urban systems, turn ideas into action and create cities that work better for people and the planet.”

“This degree represents the future of how we educate the next generation of urban innovators,” said Scott Shireman, executive director of the University of Michigan Center for Innovation in Detroit. “By integrating technology, design and entrepreneurship, we’re preparing students to solve complex challenges and create meaningful impact in cities.”

Built for Impact, Designed with Detroit

Based at UMCI and developed with Taubman College faculty, alumni, and industry experts, the program will prepare students to build next-generation solutions in housing, infrastructure, sustainability and economic development. Through collaborative projects with industry and community partners, students will develop practical solutions, ventures and services in Detroit’s evolving urban environment.

“Reindustrialization is a rapidly growing area of interest where factories are being reimagined, and with them the businesses that make things. That’s what this degree is about, and there’s no better place for it than Detroit, the epicenter of reindustrialization. It is an unmatched environment for this kind of applied learning,” said Bryan Boyer, faculty director of the University of Michigan Center for Innovation in Detroit. “Students won’t just study cities–they’ll help shape them, working alongside industry, civic and community partners to drive innovation where it matters most.”

Advancing a Shared Vision for Innovation and Opportunity

As one of UMCI’s inaugural graduate degrees, the Master of Urban Technology plays a key role in advancing innovation, talent development and inclusive economic growth in Detroit and beyond.

The program strengthens the pipeline of interdisciplinary talent needed to shape the future of cities and the built environment sector.

The Master of Urban Technology is launching in fall 2027 with its first cohort. Prospective students interested in learning more should complete this inquiry form and/or email [email protected]. Monthly virtual information sessions are available for interested students.

This degree has three upcoming admissions application deadlines:

• December 15, 2026
• February 15, 2027
• April 15, 2027

Prospective students can learn more about the admissions process on the website.

About Taubman College of Architecture and Urban Planning
The University of Michigan’s Taubman College of Architecture and Urban Planning ranks among the world’s leading colleges in architecture, urban planning, and the built environment. Through interdisciplinary education and research, the college prepares architects, planners, designers, and scholars to advance sustainability, harness emerging technologies, address the climate future, and shape more equitable and resilient places worldwide.

About the University of Michigan Center for Innovation in Detroit
The University of Michigan Center for Innovation in Detroit advances innovation, education and economic development through place-based learning and cross-sector collaboration. Based in Detroit, UMCI brings together students, faculty and partners to address complex challenges and create new opportunities for the future of work.

Media Contacts:

Deniz McGee
Director of Marketing and Communications
Taubman College of Architecture and Urban Planning
[email protected]

Da’Stanza Murphy
Marketing and Communications Manager
University of Michigan Center for Innovation in Detroit
[email protected]