COURSE CURRICULUM

The Graduate Diploma in Urban and Regional Planning at UNE is designed to provide students with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills in the field of planning, preparing them for careers in urban development, regional management, and environmental planning. To qualify for the award, candidates must complete 72 credit points, including at least 30 credit points at 400 level or higher, ensuring advanced understanding of planning principles and practices.The program consists of 54 credit points of core units that cover essential topics such as local environmental infrastructure, population geography, economic change and urban development, architecture and urban design, regional development processes and policies, transport and land use planning, development control, planning theory and practice, and environmental planning and administration. These units provide a solid foundation in the theory and application of urban and regional planning, with an emphasis on integrating environmental, social, and economic considerations in decision-making.Students also complete 18 credit points from a wide range of listed units, allowing them to tailor their studies to specific interests and career goals. These electives cover areas such as cultural heritage management, environmental economics, land assessment, environmental impact assessment, GIS and spatial thinking, climate change, disaster resilience, urban living, rural planning, community participation, heritage conservation, and social policy. Some units, including Integrated Planning Practice 1 and 2, provide practical, project-based experiences that simulate real-world planning scenarios and foster applied skills.The flexible structure of the course allows students to study full-time or part-time and offers online and on-campus options. Online students benefit from 24/7 tutor support, interactive learning materials, and access to intensive schools for hands-on experience, while on-campus students gain access to laboratories, fieldwork opportunities, and student support facilities. Graduates of the program are well-prepared to address complex planning challenges, contribute to sustainable urban and regional development, and pursue further study or professional accreditation in the field.