Ben Millett never planned to return to university in his 50s, but a lifelong interest in the way cities are designed eventually led him to enrol in the University of Tasmania’s Master of Planning.
“I thought I was done with university in my 20s,” he said. “But the more I thought about how to improve cities and their surrounds, the more I considered re-skilling and becoming a planner.”
Originally from Coffs Harbour and now based in Hobart, Ben’s fascination with city planning began in childhood. He was drawn to the symmetry and order of cities like Canberra or Washington, DC and, as a history student, discovered that planned cities had existed for thousands of years.
“There’s something enduring and effective about planned cities,” he said. “When you travel, you can see and feel the difference – it’s not just about traffic, it’s about quality of life.
“I want to do my part in improving people’s lives with Planning.”
Working in student recruitment at the University of Tasmania gave Ben insight into the nationally accredited Master of Planning and its strong career outcomes. That first-hand exposure made the decision to enrol an easy one.
Now studying both the Graduate Diploma of Environmental Planning and the Master of Planning, Ben is immersing himself in a discipline that feels both practical and inspiring. While he initially considered becoming a town or transport planner, he’s now intrigued by the possibilities of environmental planning.
“It’s made me rethink where I could go with this,” he said.
Ben approaches study with structure, treating his class days on campus like workdays. He often begins in the Sandy Bay campus library before attending afternoon classes.
“I enjoyed the vibe of the library – it helps when you’re surrounded by others who are also studying,” he said.
“The classes were the perfect size – small enough that you get to know everyone, and you feel comfortable asking questions.”
Access to professors and the integration of guest speakers from industry and government have been highlights of Ben’s experience so far.
“That kind of direct engagement with experts really brings the course to life.”
Ben said one of the most rewarding parts of the course was learning alongside a connected and motivated cohort, with students joining from across Australia, including Melbourne, Canberra, Sydney and Alice Springs.
His journey is a reminder that it’s never too late to follow a passion – and that sometimes, your own workplace can be the gateway to a new career.
Study with us. Find out more about studying Planning at the University of Tasmania.