The University of Auckland is New?Zealand’s largest and most highly ranked university, known for world?class research, global collaborations, and strong student support services. It attracts thousands of international students each year and offers comprehensive academic, wellbeing, and career resources.

 

The Master of Urban Planning (Professional) is a postgraduate qualification aimed at preparing students to become planning professionals capable of working in policy, design, sustainability, and infrastructure planning in cities and regions internationally.

 

Why Study Master of Urban Planning (Professional)?

• Accredited Professional Qualification: The programme is accredited by the New Zealand Planning Institute (NZPI), making it recognised by professional planning bodies.
• Interdisciplinary Skills: Prepares you for real?world planning challenges — integrating policy formulation, urban sustainability, economics, social and cultural planning, and infrastructure design.
• Research and Practice: Combines research?led coursework with professional engagement and a substantial dissertation research project.
• Global Relevance: Urban planning skills are in demand worldwide in government, consultancy, non?profits and private sectors.

 

Subjects & Programme Structure

Coursework

Students cover core urban planning subjects focusing on:

• Policy formulation and implementation

• Urban sustainability

• Urban design and economics

• Cultural and social planning

• Infrastructure and regional planning

Dissertation (Research Project)

• Around 15,000 words on an urban planning issue of personal or professional interest.

• Integrates academic research with practice?oriented insights.

 

Career Outcomes

Graduates may pursue roles such as:

• Urban Planner or Policy Analyst
• Environmental / Sustainability Planner
• Resource Consent Planner
• Built Environment Consultant
• Local/Regional Government Planner
• Urban Designer in private or public sectors

 

Highlights for International Students

• Professional accreditation (NZPI).

• Rigorous combination of academic theory and practical skills.

• Based in Auckland — New?Zealand’s largest and most diverse city.

• Excellent preparation for careers in planning, policy, and sustainable development sectors.

 

Visa & Immigration Notes

To study this full?time programme, international students must obtain a New?Zealand student visa. Requirements typically include:

• A confirmed offer of study
• Proof of funds
• Health and character checks
• Adequate health insurance