Course overview
The future of our urban and regional centres relies on agile, creative thinkers who can bring communities together to collectively work toward solutions to the challenges they face.
In doing so, they need to navigate political, administrative and legislative frameworks in an ethical, sustainable way. In this Planning Institute of Australia (PIA) accredited course, you’ll explore the social, economic and environmental challenges affecting communities and help solve real-world problems with the support of several industry partners.
You’ll gain an understanding of planning laws and applications, and be encouraged to contribute to real-world projects.
The course is designed for students with an undergraduate qualification in an area related to the built environment, such as architecture, landscape architecture or geography, who seek to gain PIA accreditation to work as a planner. It is not intended for those who hold a PIA-accredited bachelor degree in planning.
Those who hold a bachelor degree in an unrelated field must apply for the Graduate Certificate in Development Planning before progressing to the master degree.
Students who complete the master degree to a high standard can apply for doctoral-level studies. You may also exit the degree at the graduate certificate level.
Career outcomes
Careers
- Planner
- Urban designer
- Consultant in urban planning and development
- Community development
- Project and policy officer (government)
Industries
- Community development and engagement
- Environmental planning
- Transport planning
- Sustainable development
- Land use planning
- Regional and rural planning
- Planning law
- Urban design
Professional accreditation and recognition
This course is fully accredited by the Planning Institute of Australia.
Hear from our students
"The learning environment is wonderful, with a wide range of study spaces, a library and cafes, and supportive lecturers. The program structure balances theory with real-life scenarios, enabling me to practically apply the skills to my job. It has also given me opportunities to meet industrial professionals and build connections with them. I plan to return to my home in the Maldives after finishing my studies and work towards creating more sustainable cities."
Fathimath Shanna
Master of Urban and Regional Planning
Your student experience
Work-integrated learning at Curtin: explore a Universe of opportunity
Develop real-world experience before you graduate. Learn how work-integrated learning helps you build career skills and connect with industry early.
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Find your entry pathway to Curtin
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
Applicants will be assessed on a case by case basis. Typically applicants with a Bachelor or postgraduate degree with the 100 credits (or equivalent) content closely related to urban and regional planning will be allowed direct entry into the Master of Urban and Regional Planning. Applicants from degrees without urban and regional planning content will be able to apply for entry via the Graduate Certificate in Development Planning. Applicants with considerable work/life experience in urban and regional planning are able to apply for up to 33 percent credit value of the course or one year (whichever is the lesser) after completing the Graduate Certificate in Development Planning.
Course-specific requirements
You’ll also need to meet any specific requirements to be eligible to apply for this course.
Study credit and support
You may be able to receive credit for recognised learning (CRL) from past study or professional experience, which could reduce the time it takes to finish your course.
Find specific details about CRL for this course on the Handbook.
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
$29,748*
Important information about fees
- *Fees are indicative only
- First year fees are based on a first-year full-time study load of 200 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.
Scholarships
Get the support you need to succeed with our diverse range of scholarships. Whether it’s financial support, assistance with relocation, or recognition for your academic achievements, we have scholarships tailored to your unique needs.
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.
Your application pathway
To apply for this course, you’ll apply directly to Curtin via our online applications portal.
Choose your preferred campus to find the application opening and closing dates for this course before you apply.
Select your preferred campus
| Intake | Applications open | Applications close |
|---|---|---|
| Semester 1, 2026 | 21 Apr 2025 | Applications now closed |
| Semester 2, 2026 | 2 Mar 2026 | Applications now closed |
| Semester 1, 2027 | Applications now open | 28 Jan 2027 |
| Semester 2, 2027 | 1 Mar 2027 | 1 Jul 2027 |
Location 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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