Urban Planning & Development (BSc)

The Urban Planning & Development (BSc) program is designed to enhance students' skills in technical and practical areas, including software such as Geographic Information System (GIS) and Edina digimap mapping. This program is professionally recognized, accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and partially accredited by the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI).

Why Study This Course

• Develop technical and practical skills with software including GIS and Edina digimap mapping.
• Professionally recognized, with accreditation from RICS and partial accreditation from RTPI.
• Field-based studies, including field visits and field study modules, to apply learning to real-world contexts and develop practical skills.
• Opportunity to gain global experience through a year abroad with the 4-year course option.
• Placement opportunities to develop skills, confidence, and connections to accelerate careers.

Accreditations

• Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS)
• Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI)

Subject Area: Geography (Human) and Planning

The program falls under the School of Geography and Planning.

Entry Requirements

We accept a combination of A-levels and other qualifications, as well as equivalent international qualifications, subject to entry requirements. Typical offers include:

• ABB-BBC at A-level.
• 32-30 overall or 665-655 in 3 HL subjects for International Baccalaureate.
• Baccalaureate Wales: accepted in lieu of one A-Level, excluding specified subjects.
• GCSE requirements: English language or Welsh language at grade C/4, and Maths at grade C/4 or equivalent.
• English language requirements for international students include IELTS, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, and Trinity ISE II/III.

Tuition Fees for 2026 Entry

Tuition fees depend on your fee status, which could be home, island, or overseas.

• Fees for home status: Ł9,535 per year for three years.
• Fees for overseas status: Ł24,700 per year for three years.

Additional Costs

• The year 2 residential field study experience is fully subsidized.
• Final year field-study visits are subsidized, with students responsible for the remaining costs.
• Local travel and subsistence costs for field study visits are covered by the student.

Course Structure

This is a 3-year full-time degree with an optional 4-year route including a professional placement year. The program includes:

• Year 1: Compulsory modules focusing on practical and applied projects, introducing key concepts in planning and development.
• Year 2: Compulsory and optional modules, including site planning, development valuation, and research methods.
• Year 3: Compulsory and optional modules, with a focus on planning theory, practice, and a research project.

Learning and Assessment

Our teaching approach is committed to providing high-quality education. Assessment methods include essays, presentations, portfolios, and creative assignments. Skills developed include:

• Knowledge and understanding of planning systems, policies, and practices.
• Intellectual skills such as critical thinking, analysis, and problem-solving.
• Professional practical skills, including design, financial appraisal, and project management.
• Transferable skills, such as communication, teamwork, and time management.

Careers and Placements

The program offers numerous career opportunities in planning, development, surveying, and related fields. A 4-year professional placement option is available, providing valuable practical experience.

Fieldwork

Each academic year includes a subsidized field study visit, allowing students to research and investigate live issues on location. Destinations may include local, UK, or overseas sites.

Next Steps

For more information on the program, including how to apply and open day visits, please refer to the official university resources.

Cardiff University

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Overview:

Cardiff University is a leading research-intensive university located in the heart of Cardiff, the capital city of Wales. It is known for its strong academic reputation, diverse range of programs, and commitment to community engagement.

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Services Offered:

Study:

Cardiff University offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and international programs across various subject areas. They also provide support services for students, including funding, tuition fee information, and career guidance.

Research:

The university is renowned for its research excellence, with a focus on tackling major challenges facing society, the economy, and the environment. They offer various research facilities and support for researchers.

Work with us:

Cardiff University collaborates with businesses and organizations to provide consultancy services, funded opportunities, and workforce development programs.

Community:

The university is deeply committed to its local communities, offering various projects, resources, and events to support learning, promote Welsh language and culture, and contribute to the green recovery.

Global:

Cardiff University has strong global partnerships with universities and organizations worldwide, fostering international research collaborations and student exchange programs.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

Living in Cardiff:

Cardiff is a vibrant city with a thriving student population, offering a diverse range of cultural experiences, entertainment options, and social activities.

Welsh Language and Culture:

Students have opportunities to learn Welsh and experience the rich Welsh language culture, which is prevalent in Cardiff.

Campus Facilities:

The university provides excellent campus facilities, including libraries, sports facilities, and conference spaces.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

World-class Campus Facilities:

Cardiff University offers modern and well-equipped facilities to support student learning and research.

Excellent Career Prospects:

The university has a strong track record of producing graduates who are highly sought after by employers.

Vibrant Student Life:

Cardiff is a lively city with a thriving student community, offering a diverse range of social and cultural experiences.

Research Excellence:

Cardiff University is renowned for its research excellence, providing students with opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research.

Community Engagement:

The university is deeply committed to its local communities, offering students opportunities to contribute to social and environmental initiatives.

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Academic Programs:

Undergraduate:

Cardiff University offers a wide range of undergraduate programs across various subject areas, including Arts, Humanities, Social Sciences, Science, Engineering, and Medicine.

Postgraduate:

The university provides a diverse range of postgraduate programs, including taught courses and research degrees.

International:

Cardiff University welcomes international students and offers specific programs and support services tailored to their needs.

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Other:

Rankings:

Cardiff University consistently ranks highly in national and international rankings, reflecting its academic excellence.

Quality Marks:

The university holds various quality marks, including the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) diamond logo, demonstrating its commitment to quality assurance.

Russell Group:

Cardiff University is a member of the Russell Group, a prestigious group of 24 leading research-intensive universities in the UK.