Program Overview

MSc Chartered Town Planner

Introduction

Hone the skills, knowledge and gain the practical experience for a rewarding career in urban and suburban planning with our RTPI accredited Chartered Town Planner Degree Apprenticeship. Study for a masters degree in Town Planning while you work, with no tuition fees.

Course Highlights

• Accredited by the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI)
• Gain professional recognition through the RTPI’s Assessment of Professional Competence (APC)
• Part-time ‘day release’ delivery with regular contact with tutors and other apprentices from a range of organisations

Key Facts

• AWARD: MSc Chartered Town Planner
• LEVEL: Postgraduate
• STUDY OPTIONS: 4 years 4 months, inclusive of EPA
• START DATES: January, September
• LOCATION: Chelmsford
• Accreditation: Accredited by the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI)
• FEES: Degree apprenticeships are fully funded by your employer and the Government

Delivery and Assessment

• 2 years (part-time)
• An apprenticeship is a job with training, combining practical experience with academic learning.
• At least 20% of your contracted working hours will be classed as 'off-the-job'. This time will be dedicated to developing the knowledge and skills needed to meet the requirements of the apprenticeship, and therefore is not part of your usual work duties.
• The off-the-job learning is gained through university-led learning sessions and activities, and practical learning experiences in your usual work setting.
• Our Chartered Town Planner Degree Apprenticeship is delivered on a day release basis on our Chelmsford campus.

Assessment

• You will be assessed at the end of each module you undertake (on-programme assessments) which will contribute towards the final award of your qualification.
• You will also undertake an End Point Assessment (EPA) to complete your apprenticeship when all on-programme assessments have been successfully passed.
• The End Point Assessment is aligned with The RTPI Assessment of Professional Competence (APC). This is a substantial piece of work that includes at least 12 months of supervised professional practice, along with a rigorous final assessment which will typically takes a further 10-12 months to complete in addition to the duration of the degree.

Modules

Core Modules

• Sustainability and Environmental Management
• Housing and Planning
• Plan Making and Policy
• Planning Principles and Concepts
• Planning and Society
• Planning Implementation
• Site Studies and Urban Design
• Research Design and Methods

Accreditation

• Accredited by the RTPI
• On successful completion of the course, you will become a Chartered Member of the Royal Town Planning Institute (MRTPI) and use the title Chartered Town Planner.

Careers

• Typical job titles include Planning Officer, Town Planner, Planner, Development Management Planner and Planning Consultant.
• Career progression can be to Senior Planner, Principal Planning Officer, or similar and will involve dealing with larger, more complex projects and taking on increasing managerial responsibilities.

Entry Requirements

• Employment in a suitable role on a permanent contract exceeding 30 hours per week
• Employer support to undertake this course
• Confirmed eligibility to be funded as an apprentice as set out within the ESFA’s Funding Rules
• A completed Skills Scan and Initial Assessment discussion
• Evidence of Level 2 qualifications in Maths and English e.g. GCSEs at Grade C/4 or above, Functional Skills, or ESFA-approved equivalents*
• A first degree at second class honours (2:2) or above in a subject that is related to the field of town planning. It should incorporate study elements of some of space, environment, design social/urban analysis and public policy. Examples of subjects that are considered to be relevant are: Environmental Studies, Architecture, Urban Studies, Geography, Economics, Politics and Surveying**

*If you do not have the appropriate Level 2 Maths and English, you must ensure you complete these prior to the start of the End Point Assessment. For further details about which qualifications meet Level 2 requirements check the gov.uk website.

**We will also consider applicants with non-standard qualifications provided you have a significant amount of relevant experience, are well-supported by your employer, and demonstrate the ability to manage university-level study. This is with the exception of ESFA approved Level 2 Maths and English qualifications which are mandatory.