Module manager: Yasar Awais
Email: Y.Awais@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable
Year running 2026/27
Admission requirements to UG programmes of the School of Civil Engineering
This module is not approved as a discovery module
This lecture-based module examines the historical and theoretical foundations of urban development, focusing primarily on European contexts. It traces the origins and evolution of urban environments from prehistory to the present, analysing how technological advancements have shaped spatial organization. Students will explore key theories of urbanism and assess development processes within regulatory frameworks. Through case studies and literature, the module investigates urban forms through the medieval period, the transformative impacts of the Renaissance and Industrial Revolution, and the modern redefinitions of urbanism driven underpinned by theory. Learning activities include a group study project and an individual essay, fostering both collaborative and independent research skills.
Students will gain an understanding of the forms, origins and processes of urban development. Knowledge of social, environmental and economic factors as affecting urbanism will help to promote a critical approach to design issues as affected by current policy as well as alternative models.
On successful completion of the module students will be able to:
1. Understand how diverse global, cultural, social, technological, economic factors and building technology influence aspects of architecture and urban design [CK1 part]
2. The introductory principles and relevance of social sustainability, social value and inclusive design [CK3 part]
3. Some principles of climate change and biodiversity as relevant to design and construction [CK4 part]
4. Understand the relevant legislation, regulations, standards, codes of practice and policies related to the development of the built environment [RE4 part]
5. Select and critically evaluate the technical literature and other sources of information to understand and analyse complex problems in the context of design and construction (M4 part)
6. Environmental and societal impacts of solutions to complex problems (M7 part)
7. Develop an understanding of inclusive approaches to engineering and architectural practice, recognising the responsibilities, benefits and importance of supporting equality, diversity and inclusion (M11 part)
The module investigates the origins and evolution of urban environments primarily from a European perspective, from prehistory through to the present time. Theories of urban development are explored in the context of technological impacts on spatial organisation. Urban development processes and regulatory contexts are described and evaluated.
This module is concerned with the histories and theories relating to urbanism. Using illustrative case studies and literature sources, the origin and development of urban forms are explored from classical times through the medieval period in Europe, the impact of the Renaissance and the industrial revolution on spatial planning and urban activity, and then the alternative definitions of urbanism offered by cheap, rapid transportation and communication systems.
Examples studied include: Athens and Rome, grids and ‘urban equipment’, medieval ‘organic’ planning, renaissance ideal cities, baroque planning as improvement or control, density and overcrowding in industrial cities, decentralisation or improved technology as solutions –the Garden City movement, planning history.
Methods of assessment
The assessment details for this module will be provided at the start of the academic year
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Class tests, exams and assessment | 2 | 2 | 4 |
| Lecture | 10 | 2 | 20 |
| Private study hours | 76 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 24 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 100 | ||
Research based on directed learning targets identified in lectures (from web-based sources of information; study of precedents; specific texts identified from a reading list, etc).
The module provides structured opportunities for students to receive formative feedback throughout their learning journey:
Dedicated Feedback Workshops: Interactive sessions are scheduled ahead of the group project submission. These workshops allow for collaborative group working, students to present progress, discuss ideas, and receive constructive feedback from peers and the module leader in order to refine their work before final submission.
Take-Home Assignment Feedback Session: Towards the end of the module, a dedicated session is held to review and provide feedback on the individual essay question selection. This ensures students have clear guidance on expectations ahead of undertaking the coursework.
Formative Assessments: Both the group study and individual essay have opportunities for formative feedback. These assessments are designed to support skill development and enhance the quality of final submissions.
Check the module area in Minerva for your reading list
Last updated: 30/04/2026
Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team