Choosing a planning degree

Selecting the right planning degree for you is a key step in your future career. The answers to the following questions may help you make an informed choice.

• How do I know if my course is accredited by the RTPI?
• What are the entry requirements for an accredited degree?
• I am interested in a qualification accredited as a specialist Masters. Will this be enough to become a Chartered Town Planner?
• Is it possible to work and study at the same time?
• What are the differences between planning courses?

How do I know if my course is accredited by the RTPI?

The courses accreditation status should be communicated to you before you enrol, and should be displayed in the online and published literature. If you are still unsure, check the accreditation status with the RTPI. A full list of all accredited qualifications is published on this web site.

What are the entry requirements for an accredited degree?

Each Planning School handles its own entry requirements. These may vary with each intake. Potential students should contact the Planning School directly for information on entry requirements.

I am interested in a qualification accredited as a specialist Masters. Will this be enough to become a Chartered Town Planner?

No, not by itself. Students should ensure that they either have a combined qualification, with covers all the requirements for RTPI membership, or that they have both a spatial and specialist qualification. This might involve a spatial qualification at undergraduate level in addition to a specialist Masters, or a spatial coupled with a specialist Masters. For further information, please view accredited qualifications.

Is it possible to work and study at the same time?

Students who undertake part-time or distance learning degrees generally work at the same time as studying for their degree. You should talk to your employer or potential employer, as most part-time degrees will require you to have day release from your work. You will also be expected to undertake independent study towards your degree, and need to be prepared to do so in your own time. Some employers may be able to offer study leave as well as day release for attendance at your Planning School.

Part-time students should be able to use any eligible experience they gain during this time towards the experience requirement of their future Chartered Membership through the Assessment of Professional Competence route.

What are the differences between accredited planning degrees?

Accredited degrees are offered at undergraduate or postgraduate level, and each fully accredited degree or degree package (BSc/BA plus Diploma or Masters) contains elements of core spatial planning as well as an area of specialism. Each Planning School will offer a different range of specialisms, so candidates thinking of beginning an accredited planning degree may want to consider these in relation to their own interests. Such candidates may also wish to consider the Planning School's mission statement to understand its particular strengths in terms of teaching and research, or its policies on access, widening participation, and the student experience. Other sources of useful information are the University and/or Planning School's website, the prospectus and course brochure.

The RTPI accredits all Planning Schools on an equal level, and does not offer advice on which school might offer a 'better' degree. Potential students should therefore consider all of the elements above in weighing up where they feel they will be able to gain the best study experience and the degree most suited to their interests and requirements.