Urban and regional planners are committed to improving the ways cities and regions respond to current and future challenges.

In this degree you will learn how to balance public and private interests to improve the quality of life for everyone. You’ll help to develop a sustainable future for communities by learning the knowledge and skills that underpin innovative planning practices.

You’ll learn to consider a range of competing social, economic, environmental, legal and political dimensions to formulate strategies for sustainable land use and development. You’ll then implement those strategies through urban management and development control processes.

Each semester you can undertake fieldwork in planning projects that will help you learn core industry skills. Projects may be undertaken with Curtin’s industry partners (for example, the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions; City of Bayswater; and Public Transport Authority) – opportunities that can provide valuable linkages with future employers.

You may also be interested in overseas internships, fieldwork units and study tours – and explore how to apply your planning skills in various global and cultural contexts.

You can expect to graduate with knowledge and skills relating to land-use planning; design, economics and law; professional communication; and ethical and professional practices.

Why study

• This course promotes a balanced view towards theory, practice and local and global perspectives.
• Fieldwork, studios and practical exercises are integrated within the curriculum.
• The course will help you achieve core skills recognised by employers in the planning profession.

How this course will make you industry ready

• All components of this course are based on the demands and skills required of the planning industry. You will undertake studio and field work, and complete practical planning projects every semester.
• Through your field work you will learn core skills and knowledge recognised by employers in the planning profession. These fieldwork projects are often carried out in conjunction with our industry partners, exposing you to future employers.
• You will have the opportunity to participate in overseas internships, fieldwork units and study tours to investigate how your planning skills can be applied to different global and cultural contexts. 

Professional recognition

This course is fully accredited with the Planning Institute of Australia.

Careers

• Planner / planning designer
• Developer
• Planning consultant

Industries

• Government
• Local government
• Building and construction
• Regional development