Graduate Certificate in Urban Planning and Design Online

What you will study

The UTS Online Graduate Certificate in Urban Planning and Design comprises four subjects (24 credit points in total).

Core subjects

Complete the following subjects:

• Property Development and Planning Process​
• Sustainable Urban Development​
• Planning and Design Theory and Decision Making
• Urban Design Fundamentals

Entry requirements

Applicants must have one of the following:

• Completed an Australian bachelor's, bachelor's honours degree, master’s degree, or overseas equivalent.
• Completed one of the following UTS qualifications, with a minimum GPA of 5/7:
  • UTS Graduate Diploma in Property Development
  • UTS Graduate Certificate in Property Development
  • UTS Graduate Certificate in Sustainable Practice
• Completed Australian graduate certificate or graduate diploma, or overseas equivalent, in a related field of study# with a minimum GPA of 5/7 AND a minimum of 1 year full-time, or equivalent part-time, relevant professional work experience
• A minimum of three years for senior positions or 5 years for mid-career positions, full-time, or equivalent part-time, relevant professional work experience.

Related fields of study and areas of relevant professional work experience include: Architecture and Urban Environment, Building Surveying, Building Construction Economics, Valuation, Human Geography, Geomatic Engineering, Environmental Studies, Law and Economics.

Supporting documentation to be submitted with the application.

English language requirements

The English proficiency requirement for local applicants with international qualifications is: Academic IELTS: 6.5 overall with a writing score of 6.0; or TOEFL: paper-based: 550-583 overall with TWE of 4.5, internet-based: 79-93 overall with a writing score of 21; or AE5: Pass; or PTE: 58-64 with a writing score of 50; or C1A/C2P: 176-184 with a writing score of 169.

Contact the university or visit its website for more information.

Recognition of Prior Learning

Your previous studies or employment experience can be acknowledged as credit towards your online postgraduate studies, provided that it meets the relevant course requirements.

If you receive a UTS offer of enrolment and you’ve undertaken previous studies at another institution, you may be eligible to apply for recognition of prior learning. UTS doesn’t determine recognition of prior learning until an offer of enrolment is accepted.

Outcomes

Learning outcomes

• Design people-centred and sustainable urban spaces
  Apply urban design principles to create vibrant, functional and sustainable environments. Integrate social, economic and environmental considerations to enhance the liveability of cities and communities.
• Develop strategic urban planning solutions
  Analyse urban growth trends and spatial dynamics to inform planning decisions. Use evidence-based strategies to design urban solutions that balance development, infrastructure and sustainability.
• Engage and collaborate with diverse stakeholders
  Refine your ability to communicate complex urban planning and design concepts. Work effectively with government agencies, industry professionals and communities to drive inclusive and impactful urban development.
• Apply digital tools and emerging technologies in urban design
  Utilise cutting-edge planning methodologies, spatial data analysis and digital modelling to visualise and optimise urban spaces. Leverage technology to enhance decision-making and drive innovative design solutions.

Career outcomes

The UTS Online Graduate Certificate in Urban Planning and Design provides foundational knowledge and skills for professionals eager to contribute to sustainable and innovative urban development. This course is ideal for those seeking to expand their career options or transition into the dynamic field of urban planning.

Upon completion, graduates can pursue a variety of roles, including:

• Urban Planner (entry-level roles)
• Development Assessment Officer
• Planning Assistant
• Urban Design Coordinator
• Environmental Planning Officer

Fees and FEE-HELP

Indicative tuition fee per subject in 2026: $4,559 (domestic full-fee paying place)

Indicative total tuition fee in 2026: $18,235 (domestic full-fee paying place)

All costs are calculated using current rates and are based on a study load of 24 credit points (normally four subjects) per year.

Student fees may vary in accordance with:

• The number of subjects studied per term.
• The choice of major or specialisation.
• Choice of subjects.
• Credit from previous study or work experience.
• Eligibility for government-funded loans.

You may also need to pay the student services and amenities fee.

Student fees shown are subject to change. Contact the university directly to confirm.

FEE-HELP loans are available to assist eligible full-fee paying domestic students with the cost of a university course.