UNSW Sydney
0.7 years (can be completed in 2 terms full-time)
Launch a career in urban planning with UNSW's Graduate Certificate in City Planning. This short postgraduate program combines theory and practice across diverse urban issues, preparing you for careers in planning consultancies, environmental planning, urban development, and regional development. Perfect for professionals seeking career progression in planning-related fields.
To gain entry into the Graduate Certificate in City Planning, you'll need a bachelor's degree with a credit average or above (Weighted Average Mark 65+). Alternative entry pathways are available for applicants with other relevant qualifications who can demonstrate equivalent knowledge and skills through formal or informal learning, workplace experience, or professional organisation membership. English language proficiency is required; if English is not your first language, you'll need to provide proof through approved English tests, prior study in English, or other recognised qualifications. If you need to improve your English skills, UNSW College's Academic English Programs are available.
The Graduate Certificate in City Planning consists of four courses covering diverse urban planning topics. Areas of study include: Urban society, theory, and history; City economics and development; Environment and sustainability; City building including infrastructure and transport; Strategic spatial planning; Planning law and administration; Planning research and analysis; Urban management and development assessment; and Communication, engagement and participation. You can choose from a broad range of urban issues to explore through theory and practice, with flexibility to select electives focused on sustainability and sustainable development. The program is structured to allow students to complete two or three courses per term, with the option of summer study.
UNSW's School of Built Environment is ranked #33 globally for architecture and built environment (QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2026) and is home to Australia's leading urban research centre, the City Futures Research Centre. UNSW has been awarded Most Employable students for seven years in a row (AFR Top100 Future Leaders Awards, 2020–2026) and is ranked #20 globally (QS World University Rankings, 2024–2026). The program offers strong industry links and partnerships, Adobe Creative Cloud subscription for all students, and the opportunity to study in and learn from one of the world's great cities, with Sydney as your classroom.
Upon completion, you'll be equipped for diverse professional roles in planning and related sectors. Potential careers include Strategic Planner, Local Government Planner, Social and Community Planner, Environmental Planner, Urban Consultant, Urban Policy Analyst, Urban Policy Officer, Transport Planning specialist, Urban Designer, Heritage Officer, and Property Developer. You'll gain in-demand analytical, collaborative and communication skills applicable across various industries. The Graduate Certificate provides a pathway into UNSW's Graduate Diploma or Master of City Planning, from which you can graduate as a professionally accredited city planner with the Planning Institute of Australia (PIA).
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