MAS ETH in Housing
A programme enabling you to understand and address contemporary housing challenges in their broadest context.
The MAS ETH in Housing trains professionals with a background in architecture or related fields looking to expand their understanding of the dynamics and processes associated with housing in a broader socio-economic, cultural and political context. Multidisciplinary training and access to top-level research will provide you with the skills necessary to address housing challenges through innovative solutions in interdisciplinary and multicultural environments worldwide.
Finding innovative solutions to one of the most pressing urban challenges
Access to adequate housing has long been recognised as a fundamental human right. However, over a billion people today live in conditions that fail to meet this standard. And the challenges are mounting, fueled by financial and political factors, demographic changes and rapid increase in migrants seeking safety and livelihood opportunities in cities unable to meet housing demands.
These problems need to be addressed on a global scale, and the MAS ETH in Housing aims to put you in a position to do so. The programme offers a comprehensive understanding of the various factors influencing housing, extending far beyond architecture. You'll develop skills to engage with local communities, stakeholders and authorities, while also honing your communication and networking abilities. In addition, you will gain valuable expertise in participatory planning and strengthen your capacity to meet today’s housing challenges with creative and socially innovative solutions.
A solid foundation for your further career
The MAS ETH in Housing consists of four modules and can be completed in one year of full-time study, with the option of part-time study over two years. You will attend lectures, participate in workshops, benefit from individual and group tutorials, and engage in excursions, including a seminar week as one of the programme’s highlights, leading up to your research-based MAS thesis. Upon graduation you will have acquired skills to work in complex and multi-cultural environments that center around people, their needs, preferences and wellbeing. In Switzerland and Europe such skills are increasingly demanded by neighbourhood and city planning agencies, housing cooperatives, civil society organisations, and by organisations working with socially disadvantaged groups, such as low-income households, elderly people, migrants, and refugees. At the global level, the MAS ETH in Housing prepares participants to work in the domains of informal settlements, urban upgrading, housing for displaced people, and post-disaster reconstruction.
Key highlights of the programme:
- An interdisciplinary and holistic approach to the field of housing
- Active interaction with housing experts, policy makers, practitioners, designers and residents
- In-depth exploration of innovative housing solutions
- Personalised coaching on individual research projects
- A hands-on approach to research integrating excursions and field studies
Build on your expertise
The MAS ETH in Housing is primarily aimed at professionals of the built environment with a background in architecture and urban planning but is also open to applicants from related disciplines. Requirements include a Master's degree (or equivalent) or a combination of suitable professional experience and relevant additional qualifications.
«While learning has an intrinsic value by itself, it can truly shine in an area like housing, where ways to find sustainable, inclusive and culturally appropriate solutions can improve the quality of life for so many people.»Jennifer Duyne Barenstein | Dr. phil. I, Head MAS ETH in Housing
Interested?
You’ll find more information about the programme on this website. And please get in touch at any time, if you would like to talk to us directly.
ETH Wohnforum – ETH CASE
HIT H 13
Wolfgang-Pauli-Strasse 27
8093
Hönggerberg
Switzerland