Master of Planning (K7P)

Overview (2027)

• Domestic
• International

Key Information

• 
  Entry requirements
• 
  Course rules
• 
  Australian Qualification Framework level: 9
• 
  Commonwealth Supported places available

Duration

Minimum 2 years, up to a maximum of 5 years.

This course is available to study as both part-time or full-time

Duration

Duration refers to the minimum and maximum amounts of time in which this course can be completed. It will be affected by whether you choose to study full or part time, noting that some programs are only available part time.

Location

Hobart

Semester 1, Semester 2

Online

Semester 1, Semester 2

Turn your passion for just and sustainable futures into a meaningful career.

In this professionally accredited course, you’ll learn theoretical, technical and communication skills required by planning professionals. You’ll develop a range of essential planning competencies, from the legal to the strategic. These two sides, legal and big picture, combine in a powerful way to enable planners to envision and action more sustainable futures.

If you are looking to progress to the next stage of your career, or you want to contribute to tackling local, regional and global challenges, this accredited course will take you there. Planning is an ideal study option for a diverse range of interests and backgrounds, including:

• Ecologists, environmentalists, and conservationists who may be in operational and front-line roles and want to apply their passion for the environment on a greater scale.
• Engineers and similar technical experts who want a change of profession but still want a career that crosses different disciplines and allows them to draw on their existing skills.
• Commerce and business students or graduates who want to apply their corporate knowledge and skills in a way that directly benefits people and communities, often through an environmental and sustainability lens.

Planning at the University of Tasmania focuses on contemporary issues and real-world professional development:

Climate challenges

Climate change is the unprecedented crisis of our times. It is emerging as the determining factor in planning for cities and regions. Our staff are recognised international leaders with research interests that extend from climate adaptation to the interaction of climate risk with land-use economics. By studying with us, you will gain knowledge and skills in planning for just climate outcomes.

Equitable places

We are advocates of promoting equitable urban and regional planning, and the island state of Tasmania offers a one-of-a-kind environment for this purpose. The City of Hobart, for example, has a diverse urban landscape, cultural heritage, natural reserves, and unique ecosystems that are easily accessible. We take advantage of this diversity by offering electives in environmental planning, protected area planning, sustainability, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS).

You will benefit from our close ties with the planning profession, including work placement opportunities and guest lecturers. Our low student-teacher ratios maximise opportunities for academic interaction and support as you study.

With career paths ranging from town planning to environmental conservation, planners contribute to building a better world for present and future generations.

Ready to explore your study options?

Start by watching our what units you will study video to gain an overview of the course structure. Then, book an online one-on-one appointment with our course coordinator to explore your study options further and discuss how the Master of Planning aligns with your career goals.

Book an appointment

Career outcomes

“Tasmania is a special place with a lot at stake. Good planning starts with how people actually live – the rhythms of daily life, the streets they walk, the places they meet, the homes they grow up in.

"That’s true everywhere, but I think Tasmanians in particular value those things. That’s why planners should play a bigger role in helping Tasmania remain Tasmanian as we face the challenges and opportunities of the future.”

Daryl Connelly
Master of Planning graduate

Find out more

Planning is a growing profession, with an increase of 82% since 2006. The National Skills Commission Australia is currently forecasting a projected increase of 15.8% by 2034*. Planners in Australia boast a higher representation of individuals in the 25-44 year age bracket compared to all occupations. Additionally, the number of women choosing to become planners has seen a significant rise, with a 113% increase since 2006.

Graduates are in high demand from both local governments and the private sector, providing an opportunity to gain professional part-time work while studying.

As a professional planner, you will be sought after by local and state governments, planning consultancies, and community organisations in Australia and around the world. After graduation, you could embark on a career as a professional planner, manager, or policymaker in areas such as:

• Town or Urban Planner
  Town planners focus on the development and sustainability of urban areas. They work within government and industry to make decisions about changes to the built and natural environments. Statutory planners are involved at the level of individual applications, while strategic planners look at the bigger picture of planning our towns and urban areas. Town planners consider the location, design, and suitability of developments such as stadiums, hotels, parks, and a full spectrum of residential requests.
• Regional planner
  A regional planner is akin to an urban strategist, outlining land use, transportation, and infrastructure for a specific area, and creating sustainable communities by considering population trends and environmental factors. They collaborate with governments, communities, and experts to develop policies for balanced regional growth and improved quality of life.
• Environmental Planner
  Working within local governments, the Parks and Wildlife Service, and other consultancies, environmental planners specialise in environmental considerations. They aim to minimise the negative ecological impacts of developments, projects, and policies while promoting sustainable practices. These planners play a vital role in preserving natural resources, expanding green spaces, and mitigating the effects of climate change.
• Transportation Planner
  Transportation planners focus on designing efficient and sustainable transportation systems. They analyse traffic patterns, public transit options, and alternative modes of transportation to improve mobility and reduce congestion. By promoting accessible and environmentally friendly transportation, they contribute to creating more liveable and interconnected communities.
• Housing and Community Development Planner
  Housing and community development planners address issues related to affordable housing, social services, and community revitalisation. They collaborate with governments, non-profit organisations, and developers to develop strategies ensuring all residents have access to safe and affordable housing, as well as essential services and amenities. Working at various scales – from individual neighbourhoods to the macro-level of cities and regions – planners are vital contributors to driving the physical, social, and economic development of our communities.

*National Skills Commission ten year projections from May 2024-May 2034.

Course structure

The first year of the Master of Planning (full-time equivalent) comprises Schedule A units (75 credit points), in addition to a choice of elective unit(s) from Schedule B (25 credit points).

The second year of the Master of Planning (full-time equivilant) comprises Schedule C units. If a student meets the requirements for entry into our independent research stream, then the units KGA742 Research Thesis A and KGA743 Research Thesis B will replace KGA703 Professional Research Methods and KGA704 Professional Research Practice.

There is flexibility in the program, particularly for students who already have work experience and would prefer to replace the Professional Placement unit with another unit – chosen from the elective list for Year 1.

Year 1

Year 2

Entry requirements

Fees & scholarships

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Next steps

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