Program Overview
This 1-year full-time or 2-year part-time MSc in Town Planning equips graduates with the skills for contemporary spatial planning. The program combines theory and practice, emphasizing critical thinking, community engagement, and sustainable development. It is dually accredited by the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) and the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), providing graduates with excellent career prospects in town planning, environmental management, and related fields.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
This Master of Science program in Town Planning (MSc) is a 1-year full-time program or a 2-year part-time program designed to equip graduates with the skills needed to work in the contemporary environment of spatial planning.
Objectives:
- Develop understanding, skills, and experience for practicing as a professional town and country planner or surveyor.
- Combine theory and practice for local and global thinking and real-world application of knowledge.
- Critically evaluate urban development regulations for optimal social, economic, and environmental outcomes.
Program Description:
This program offers a comprehensive exploration of town planning concepts, focusing on current issues related to the built environment. Students will gain a deeper understanding of the planning process, policymaking, and sustainable development, with a particular emphasis on sustainable coastal communities and the challenges of climate change and flood risk.
The program is dually accredited by the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) and the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), making it the only RTPI and RICS-accredited course on the south coast.
The program is enriched by direct engagement with these institutions, as well as other organizations like the Town and Country Planning Association, the Royal Geographic Society, and various government agencies, local authorities, and the UK government.
The program emphasizes critical thinking, community engagement, partnership building, and leadership skills.
It features outstanding teaching locations near the sea, the South Downs National Park, and a 180-degree catchment area.
An optional international study visit is usually offered each year, with past destinations including the Netherlands and France.
Outline:
Program Content:
The MSc in Town Planning program curriculum consists of:
- Core modules: These mandatory modules form the foundation of the program.
- Option modules: Students select three option modules to specialize in areas of their interest.
- Individual research project: Students undertake an independent research project under the supervision of a faculty member.
Structure:
The program is divided into three parts:
Taught portion
This includes lectures, seminars, tutorials, workshops, laboratory classes, individual supervision sessions, and team projects.
Individual research project
Students conduct independent research and produce a written thesis.
Individual Modules:
Core Modules:
- Planning Theory and Practice
- Policy and Implementation in Town Planning
- Sustainable Urbanism in Coastal Communities
- Comparative Practice in Property and Planning
- Learning Log (non-credit bearing module for the RTPI accredited MSc Town Planning final award)
- Masters Research Skills and Dissertation
Option Modules (examples):
- Situate
- Critical Readings in Spatial Design
- Sustainable Construction
- Independent Study
- Environmental Impact Assessment
- Environmental Management in Organisations
- Environmental Policy and Law
- Case Studies in Environmental Assessment and Management
- Environment Placement
- Introduction to GIS
- Applications in GIS
- Contested Natures and Social Justice
Assessment:
Assessment Methods:
The program uses various assessment methods, including:
- Essays
- Reports
- Presentations
- Examinations
- Dissertation
Assessment Criteria:
Assessments are based on criteria such as:
- Knowledge and understanding
- Critical analysis and evaluation
- Application of theory to practice
- Communication and presentation skills
- Research skills
Teaching:
Teaching Methods:
The program employs a variety of teaching methods, including:
- Lectures
- Seminars
- Tutorials
- Workshops
- Independent study
- Site visits
- Guest lectures
Faculty:
The program is taught by experienced and qualified faculty members with expertise in town planning, environmental management, and related fields.
Unique Teaching Approaches:
The program utilizes several unique approaches to teaching, including:
- Blended learning: The program combines traditional classroom teaching with online learning resources.
- Problem-based learning: Students engage in real-world case studies and projects.
- International perspective: The program incorporates an international focus through case studies, guest lectures, and optional study visits.
Careers:
Career Paths:
Graduates of the MSc in Town Planning program can pursue careers in various sectors, including:
- Local government
- Private sector planning consultancy
- Environmental agencies
- Non-governmental organizations
- Research and academia
Career Opportunities:
Possible career opportunities include:
- Town planner
- Environmental consultant
- Policy analyst
- Researcher
- Project manager
- Development officer
Career Outcomes:
Graduates of the program have successfully secured positions in organizations such as:
- Sky
- Natural England
- Environment Agency
- Parker Dann
- Boyer Planning
- Mid Sussex District Council
- Brighton and Hove City Council
- Horsham District Council
- Lichfield Planning
- Deloittes
- City planning in Luxembourg
Other:
- The program is accessible to individuals with first degrees in various disciplines, including geography, architecture, building, surveying, and law.
- The program is highly regarded by current and former students, the RTPI Partnership Board, and external examiners for its blend of theory and practice, use of external professional speakers, and focus on sustainable development.
