Macquarie University, among Australia’s top 10 universities, has opened applications for the February 2027 intake of its Bachelor of Urban and Regional Planning, a three-year undergraduate degree program designed to prepare the next generation of Urban planners.
As cities continue to expand and climate-related challenges intensify, there is a growing demand for professionals who can shape sustainable, liveable and resilient communities. This course aims to equip students with the knowledge, technical expertise and practical experience to address complex issues spanning housing, transport, infrastructure, environmental sustainability and community development.
Dr. Richard Carter-White, Course Director, Bachelor of Urban and Regional Planning, Macquarie University, said, “The places where we live, work and connect are changing rapidly. This program has been designed to prepare professionals who can thoughtfully and confidently respond to the planning challenges facing cities and regions today. Through academic study, practical learning and industry engagement, students will develop skills to create sustainable, inclusive and resilient communities for the future.”
The Bachelor of Urban and Regional Planning program will be delivered through both on campus or fully online models, offering students flexibility to study and pursue their career goals. The curriculum integrates social and environmental planning with Indigenous perspectives, giving students a holistic understanding of the economic, cultural, political and environmental considerations influencing planning decisions. Students will also gain hands-on experience with emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence applications and Geographic Information Science (GIS), giving them skills increasingly sought by employers.
This course emphasises experiential learning to prepare workplace-ready graduates. Students will complete over 150 hours of professional experience through industry and community projects and take part in field studies in and around Sydney. They will also get the opportunity to connect with employers through industry showcases, guest lectures and mentoring sessions.
Graduates will be able to pursue careers across urban and regional planning, climate adaptation, housing, transport, infrastructure, environmental and social impact assessment, heritage conservation and sustainability. Potential employers could include government agencies, local councils, planning consultancies, property developers, environmental organizations and NGOs.
Making this program accessible, the University is also offering eligible students a scholarship of AUD 10,000 per year, with high-performing applicants eligible for an additional AUD 5,000 annually, for a total of up to AUD 15,000 per year, equivalent to up to30% of tuition fees.
Applications for the February 2027 intake are now open and will close on 15 January 2027. Prospective students can learn more and apply via the Macquarie University website: https://www.mq.edu.au/study/find-a-course/courses/2027/bachelor-of-urban-and-regional-planning/#overview
