UNSW Sydney
2 years
The Master of City Planning is a two-year accredited degree that equips you with the skills to tackle complex urban challenges like climate change and housing affordability. Ideal for professionals seeking to advance their careers in urban planning across government, consultancies, and development sectors.
To gain entry, you'll need a bachelor's degree with a credit average or above (Weighted Average Mark 65+). If you have an undergraduate degree in cognate disciplines such as architecture, landscape architecture, geography, urban studies, sociology, economics, environmental science, law, or civil engineering, you may be eligible for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). English language proficiency is required; if English is not your first language, you must provide evidence through approved English tests or prior study in English. If you don't meet entry requirements, you may study the Graduate Certificate in City Planning first.
The program comprises 96 units of credit across core courses, prescribed electives, and a capstone project. Core courses (54 UOC) include: Land & Environment Law, Land Use Policy & Practice, City Equity & Wellbeing, Urban Design, City Building - Infrastructure Planning, City Economics and Urban Development & Finance, Planning Techniques & Analysis, Strategic Spatial Planning, and Sustainable Development and the Urban Environment. You'll complete prescribed electives (24 UOC) or choose optional specialisations in City Analytics or Urban Design. The capstone project (18 UOC) allows you to undertake either an independent research thesis or major urban design studio, deepening expertise in your chosen specialisation.
UNSW Sydney is a global top 20 university (QS World University Rankings 2024-2026) recognised for producing Australia's most employable graduates for seven years in a row. The Built Environment school ranks #33 globally for architecture and built environment. The program benefits from world-leading research through the City Futures Research Centre, over 1000 industry partnerships, and courses designed and taught by leading planning professionals. UNSW's strong connections with government, consultancies, and development organisations provide unmatched networking and career opportunities.
Graduates are in-demand across all tiers of government (Federal, State, Local), private sector consultancies, property development, and other built environment professions. The typical salary for an urban planner in Australia is $90,000 per year. Career paths include roles in city analysis, development assessment, environmental planning, housing policy, strategic planning, urban design, and urban policy. Your capstone project and professional accreditation from the Planning Institute of Australia provide significant portfolio pieces that demonstrate expertise to potential employers, positioning you to drive urban innovation and shape how communities grow.
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