Course overview
For human settlements to be sustainable and successful, they must be properly planned. Urban and regional planners play an important role in shaping the development and land use of cities, towns and regions, and promoting public interest in the development process.
In the program you will be introduced to the principles, practices and techniques used by urban and regional planners. You will apply interdisciplinary knowledge and techniques to address environmental, social and design issues of concern to communities.
The course is suitable if you do not have a background in planning, or if you are a practising planner outside of Australia.
Upon successful completion of the graduate certificate, you may be eligible for entry into the Master of Urban and Regional Planning.
Career outcomes
The future of planning and development
The future of planning and development is underpinned by the need for innovative thinking to plan, regulate and manage the environmental, economic and social impacts of development.
Urban and regional issues are collective, often having multiple stakeholders with differing requirements. We require new ways of approaching land use and resource problems – such as developing sharing and community economies, encouraging a social licence to operate, and innovating our democratic institutions.
Innovation in urban planning and development will also occur through technological advances. Smart technologies, big data and the Internet of Things are opening new ways of developing knowledge and seeing cities and regions. Although these technologies will further enhance the analysis of planning problems, cultural competency and humanism are also critically important for working with communities and formulating responsive designs and solutions.
Industries
- land-use planning
- Development
- Housing
- Transport
- Government
- Community engagement
Your student experience
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You may be finishing high school, coming from TAFE, or just thinking of a career change; but whatever your background, there’s an entry pathway to Curtin for you.
Entry requirements
A bachelor degree or equivalent in any discipline from a recognised tertiary institution, or vocational skills and knowledge in relevant professional areas where you can demonstrate through professional work experience your capacity to successfully undertake this program.
Course-specific requirements
You’ll also need to meet any specific requirements to be eligible to apply for this course.
Additional information
Notes about this course
Make sure you check the course notes for any other important information.
Fees
2026 Domestic indicative fees
Domestic fee-paying first-year fee
$15,016*
Important information about fees
- *Fees are indicative only
- First year fees are based on a first-year full-time study load of 100 credit points. Your fees will vary depending on the units you choose.
- This indicative fee does not include other fees like administrative and incidental fees (such as lab coats or art supplies) or the cost of your textbooks. Visit other fees and charges for more information.
How to apply
Follow these steps to make sure you’re eligible, prepared and ready to apply for your course.
Check entry requirements
Entry requirements differ by course and your previous work and study experience.
Prepare your documents
The documents you need may vary depending on your course and application pathway.
Check application deadlines
Deadlines vary by course and whether you’re applying as a domestic or international student.
Application deadlines can vary by course. Make sure to check application deadlines before you apply.
Express your interestLocation and delivery
Thinking about starting soon? Course availability can vary by location and study period. Check the course handbook for details on when and where you can start your studies.
For full entry requirements, fees and information for international students, visit the course page.
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