| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2023-09-01 | - |
| 2024-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
The Spatial Planning PgCert program provides a comprehensive foundation in spatial and city planning, equipping students with analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills. The program offers a flexible structure with core and optional courses, allowing students to tailor their learning to their interests and career aspirations. Graduates are well-positioned for careers in local government, private consultancies, and regeneration agencies. The program also offers an optional field trip to London and a potential progression route to the MSc City Planning program.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Spatial Planning (PgCert)
This postgraduate certificate program aims to equip students with a comprehensive foundation in spatial and city planning, preparing them for further specialized study or professional practice. The program bridges academic theory with real-world application, enabling students to critically analyze and apply spatial planning concepts in various contexts.
Objectives:
- Develop a thorough understanding of the fundamental principles and practices of spatial planning.
- Enhance analytical and problem-solving skills within the context of spatial planning challenges.
- Foster critical thinking and the ability to apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios.
- Cultivate effective communication and collaboration skills relevant to the planning field.
Program Description:
The Spatial Planning PgCert program offers a flexible structure, catering to both full-time (12 months) and part-time (up to 48 months) study options. The program comprises a mix of core and optional courses, allowing students to tailor their learning experience to their individual interests and career aspirations.
Core Courses:
- CONTEMPORARY PLANNING SYSTEMS: Explores the evolution and current state of planning systems across various contexts.
- SPATIAL PLANNING STRATEGIES: Delves into diverse spatial planning strategies and their application in addressing contemporary challenges.
Optional Courses:
- DESIGNING PLACES: Focuses on the principles and practices of designing effective and sustainable public spaces.
- DEVELOPMENT PROCESS: Analyzes the various stages and complexities involved in the development process.
Other Key Features:
- Strong industry connections through guest lectures, seminars, and networking opportunities.
- Optional field trip to London, offering insights into planning complexities in a global city.
- Potential progression route to the MSc City Planning program upon successful completion.
Outline:
The program structure involves a combination of lectures, seminars, tutorials, projects, field visits, and teamwork exercises.
Core Courses:
- CONTEMPORARY PLANNING SYSTEMS: Examines the historical development and contemporary context of planning systems in various countries, including the UK, Europe, and developing nations.
- SPATIAL PLANNING STRATEGIES: Explores various spatial planning strategies, such as strategic planning, development control, urban design, and regeneration, and their application in addressing contemporary challenges like climate change, social inequality, and economic development.
Optional Courses:
- DESIGNING PLACES: Focuses on the principles and practices of designing effective and sustainable public spaces, considering user needs, accessibility, aesthetics, and environmental considerations.
- DEVELOPMENT PROCESS: Analyzes the various stages and complexities involved in the development process, from site selection and feasibility studies to planning applications, construction, and post-occupancy evaluation.
Assessment:
Assessment methods vary depending on the specific course and learning objectives. Common assessment methods include:
- Essays and reports: Demonstrate critical thinking, research skills, and written communication abilities.
- Presentations: Develop oral communication and presentation skills.
- Examinations: Assess knowledge and understanding of key concepts.
- Projects and assignments: Apply theoretical knowledge to practical planning scenarios.
- Group work: Enhance collaboration and teamwork skills.
Teaching:
The program benefits from the expertise of experienced academics and practitioners in the field of spatial planning. The teaching methods emphasize active learning, encouraging student participation and critical engagement with the material.
Teaching Staff:
- Dr. Andrew Hoolachan, Academic Contact: Leads the program and provides guidance to students.
- Guest Lecturers and Visiting Professionals: Share their expertise and industry insights.
Careers:
Graduates of the Spatial Planning PgCert program are well-positioned for careers in various sectors, including:
- Local and national government planning departments: Contributing to the development and implementation of planning policies.
- Private-sector consultancies: Providing professional advice and expertise to clients on spatial planning and development projects.
- Regeneration agencies: Working on projects aimed at improving the economic, social, and environmental conditions of communities.
Other:
- The program offers an optional field trip to London, providing valuable insights into the complexities of urban planning in a global city. Past trips have included visits to iconic landmarks and projects showcasing innovative planning approaches.
- Graduates have the opportunity to apply for progression to the MSc City Planning program, allowing them to further specialize in their chosen area of interest.
- The program attracts students from diverse backgrounds and experiences, fostering a rich learning environment and promoting professional networking opportunities.
Tuition fees for 2024-25 PgCert UK Full-time fee: £3710 Part-time fee: £1237 per 20 credits International & EU Full-time fee: £8430 Additional fees Fee for re-assessment of a dissertation (PGT programme): £370 Submission of thesis after deadline lapsed: £350 Registration/exam only fee: £170
