Career Pathways

Become an urban planner

Plan sustainable, best-practice urban environments

How long will it take?

3 years Bachelor degree
Add
2 years Master of Urban Planning

Why study urban planning?

Urban planners consider the interaction between people, the places they live in and the policies that help make sustainable cities and liveable communities. They work to positively influence environmental sustainability, economic resilience and social equity in cities.

Where urban designers shape the physical setting for life in urban areas, urban planners focus on the intersection of the built environment and the public interest. Together they explore the design and planning of public spaces, taking into consideration the social, economic, aesthetic and environmental issues involved.

Our urban design researchers, teaching staff and students are actively engaged with some of the pressing issues of our time, including increased urbanisation, climate change and sustainable resourcing.

Our students become employment-ready through working in interdisciplinary teams, encouraging interaction and appreciation of multiple viewpoints and collegiate working environments.

Career outcomes

Career outcomes

Many Master of Urban Planning graduates enter the public sector and work in government departments, or for local councils and regions.

The private sector within Australia and Internationally offers an increasing range of employment opportunities including:

  • Urban planners and design roles
  • Environmental and transport planning
  • Property development
  • Housing and community advocacy

Professional accreditation

  • Planning Institute of Australia

What are the study options?

Standard entry

1. Undergraduate degree

First, you need to meet the entry requirements for your undergraduate degree.

2. Graduate degree

The Master of Urban Planing requires you to have completed an undergraduate degree with a weighted average mark of 65% or higher and submit a personal statement of up to 500 words outlining relevant study and work experience.

Other entry pathways

Graduate Degree Packages

The University also offers guaranteed entry to high–achieving domestic and international students who have completed an Australian Year 12 or the IB in Australia based on your ATAR.

Discover more about Graduate Degree Packages

Melbourne Chancellor's Scholars

Melbourne Chancellor's Scholars are guaranteed a place into the graduate degree of their choice following successful completion of their undergraduate degree.

Discover more about Melbourne Chancellor’s Scholars

Scholarships

The University offers a range of scholarships at both undergraduate and graduate level.

Find a scholarship that's right for you

Looking for personalised advice?

Find out more about our graduate degrees and get support with your application. Speak to our expert staff online, via phone or at an upcoming event. You can also register to learn more about your course options and opportunities via email.

Why study at the University of Melbourne

Discover your passions

Discover your passions

We offer unique flexibility, giving you the option of completing majors, minors, double majors and specialisations.

Become part of a community

Become part of a community

Join a community of world-leading academics and industry practitioners working to improve the way we live and the places we live in.

Career-ready skills

Career-ready skills

Participate in our wide range of industry opportunities, developing practical skills for a meaningful career.

Talk to us

Please speak to our expert staff to discover more about our learning opportunities and get support with your application.