Urban university campuses have historically developed as integral components of the urban pattern, establishing strong interactions with economic, spatial, and socio-cultural dynamics over time. Today, the processes of spatial expansion and transformation in these campuses require a strategic planning approach due to increasing student populations, limited land availability, and the necessity of urban integration. This study examines the spatial organization of urban campuses through four key parameters -physical infrastructure, transportation, social amenities, and housing- and aims to contribute to future-oriented planning principles. Methodologically, a university campus located in Istanbul was analyzed as a case study, with assessments based on current conditions, spatial analyses, and field observations. The findings reveal opportunities for new interventions and improvements in the campus’s spatial development. In particular, design strategies that enhance spatial cohesion, interventions that facilitate pedestrian accessibility, diversification of social amenities, and integration of housing opportunities with the campus are identified as carrying significant potential for future planning. The results highlight the importance of strengthening the campus not only as an academic environment but also as a social, cultural, and urban entity. The study underscores the necessity of a holistic and flexible master plan approach for urban university campuses and emphasizes the critical role of collaboration between universities, local governments, and the broader community. In this regard, the research contributes to the ongoing discourse on campus–city interaction and offers guidance for strategic planning frameworks applicable to future practices.
