A town planner helps communities, companies and politicians to decide on the best way to use land and buildings.

A planner’s main aim is achieving sustainability. This means balancing different social, environmental and economic issues when official decisions are made on whether a piece of land is built on or not. Another way to describe this job is 'making places', such as towns, for people to live and work. Planners do not construct buildings but recommend how and where buildings should be built, what they should be used for and how they should fit into the local surroundings. 

MSc/PG Dip Spatial Planning 

A general introduction to planning theories, systems and cultures with a focus on the importance of taking a spatial perspective and on UK practice. 

MSc/PG Dip International Planning 

A general introduction to planning theories, systems and cultures with an international perspective; ideal for those likely to work outside the UK after their studies. 

MSC Housing and City Planning

A ground-breaking interdisciplinary perspective on the developed world’s ‘housing question’, drawing together the planning, design and project management dimensions of development

Starting point: Student Membership

End goal: Chartered Membership

Want to jump straight into work after leaving school? Some companies or councils have entry-level technical roles. Learn on the job for 2-5 years and the experience can get you onto a diploma or degree course. 

Are you studying geography, architecture, environmental science or law? Consider taking a one-year Masters in Spatial Planning, after your first degree. Some employers advertise for graduate roles and sponsor this route part-time.

Want to fast track into learning about planning new places? Consider studying Town, City or Regional Planning straight away. Take a three year BA/BSc planning course and a specialist Diploma.