This Postgraduate Diploma course is designed to equip students for a professional career in town and country planning, developing knowledge and skills in studies related to land development and environmental regulation. It will also be of interest and value to those in related environmental professions, such as architects and surveyors, and attract others such as councillors, members of environmental groups and anyone concerned with the planning of the environment. The course is 'recognised' by the Royal Town Planning Institute for membership purposes. Part-time attendance is on one day per week plus two weeks of block release per year. It is recommended that students spend the equivalent of at least an additional day per week on private study, plus focused research periods in the final year.
Flexible attendance is possible, allowing students to take up to six years to complete the course.
Many students will already be in employment and the course is intended to enhance career prospects as well as self-development. Specialism units focus particularly on sustainable planning and implementation at the local level. A number of options is available including urban regeneration, transportation, conservation and urban design, and natural resource management. Completion of the professionally accredited MA requires the submission of a major project or dissertation, which distinguishes this award from the Diploma route. The teaching day is devoted to lectures and seminars, with 'block' periods allowing for focused project work and field study visits, including a European visit.