University of Technology Sydney
Master of Urban Planning Online
- Delivery: Online
- Study Level: Postgraduate
- Duration: 2.5 years
- Course Type: Master's
Learn to navigate real-life opportunities and constraints and understand the importance of economic, social, cultural and political contexts when planning for communities.
Course overview
The UTS Online Master of Urban Planning is designed for professionals who want to develop their knowledge and practical skills to become effective planners with an integrated approach to creating sustainable urban environments.
Delivered 100% online, this course enables you to work full-time while gaining a holistic understanding of the environmental, policy and economic considerations that support strong planning outcomes. Immediately apply what you learn to make a greater impact in your current role and help create sustainable urban environments.
Who is this course for?
The Master of Urban Planning is suitable for professionals from both planning and non-planning fields who want to develop their knowledge and practical skills to become effective planners.
Key facts
6th July, 2026
31st August, 2026
26th October, 2026
What you will study
The UTS Online’s Master of Urban Planning comprises 15 online subjects (90 credit points in total).
Core subjects
Complete all of the following subjects:
- Property Development and Planning Process
- Sustainable Urban Development
- Planning and Design Theory and Decision Making
- Urban Design Fundamentals
- Urban Analytics
- Environmental and Social Impact Assessments
- Urban Economics and Infrastructure Planning
- Planning and Environmental Law in Australia
- Local Strategic Planning
- Structure Planning
- Spatial Analysis (GIS)
- Development Negotiation and Community Engagement
- Urban Redevelopment
- Urban Project A
- Urban Project B
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 Diploma in Planning
- UTS Graduate Certificate in Urban Planning and Design
- UTS Graduate Certificate in Planning
- UTS Graduate Certificate in Property Development
- 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 three years 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.
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
- Shape sustainable and strategic urban development
Analyse the forces that drive land and property markets and evaluate their impact on urban planning proposals. Apply spatial analysis to design planning solutions that enhance liveability, sustainability and economic resilience. - Lead with ethical and future-focused planning
Develop a critical and ethical mindset to navigate complex urban challenges. Apply socially responsible and forward-thinking planning strategies that anticipate and respond to emerging urban, regional and environmental dynamics. - Engage and influence diverse stakeholders
Refine your ability to communicate planning concepts and strategies effectively. Build collaborative relationships with stakeholders from diverse cultural, social and economic backgrounds to drive consensus and support sustainable urban outcomes. - Develop data-driven and innovative planning solutions
Harness analytical tools and planning methodologies to create evidence-based urban strategies. Use cutting-edge research and technology to model urban growth, assess risks and develop solutions that shape the cities of tomorrow.
Career outcomes
The UTS Online Master of Urban Planning equips professionals with the expertise to shape sustainable, liveable and inclusive cities. This course is designed for those passionate about driving urban innovation, influencing policy and leading complex development projects.
Upon completion, graduates can pursue a range of career opportunities, including:
- Urban Planner
- Strategic Planner
- Development Assessment Officer
- Urban Design Consultant
- Environmental Planner
- Policy Advisor
Fees and FEE-HELP
Indicative tuition fee per subject in 2026: $4,559 (domestic full-fee paying place)
Indicative total tuition fee in 2026: $68,385 (domestic full-fee paying place)
All costs are calculated using current rates and are based on a study load of 90 credit points (15 subjects).
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.
Who You Will Learn From
Professor Heather MacDonald
Academic in planning and Deputy Dean in the Faculty of Design, Architecture and Building at UTS
I think the ability to broker solutions among many competing stakeholders (neighbours, environmental advocates, housing developers, local businesses) and invent new solutions to complex conflicts is one of the top skills planners need. They also need to be able to assemble and analyse different sorts of evidence to weigh up the outcomes of alternative decisions and support a better-informed public debate.
Student Testimonials
Audrey B.
I thought completing one subject at a time would be much easier for me to juggle with my work. Everything was in one place. The broad coverage of what I studied has been really helpful, because I’m opening my progression up to those new paths.
Ben G.
I continued some friendships from fellow students and also continued the relationship with UTS.

















