Graduate Certificate in Urban and Regional Planning

Postgraduate | 2026

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Mode icon
Mode
Mode
Your study is primarily delivered on campus
On Campus
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Start date
Start date
The month you will commence your studies. Exact start date is outlined in the course timetable.
February, July
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Duration
Duration
Duration is approximate and based on a full-time study load.
0.5 year(s) full-time
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Program code
GCURP
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Study as
Full time or part time
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Indicative annual fees
Indicative annual fees
Commonwealth Supported students are charged a portion of the cost of their higher education through a student contribution. Fee-Paying programs require the full tuition fees of your study, which can be deferred partly or in full to a FEE-HELP loan. Where the duration of the program is less than one year, the total cost of the program is displayed.
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Prerequisite
Prerequisite
A prerequisite is a required course or/subject that you must have successfully completed before you can enrol into this program.
N/A
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Assumed knowledge
Assumed knowledge
Assumed knowledge, while not essential, is where you have a minimum level of understanding in the relevant course area.
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Entry requirements

Admission criteria

To be eligible, an applicant must have achieved at least one of the following minimum entry requirements and demonstrate they fulfill any prerequisite and essential criteria for admission. In cases where there are more eligible applicants than available places, admission will be competitive with ranks based on the entry criteria.

A completed bachelor (AQF level 7) or bachelor honours (AQF level 8) degree or equivalent from a recognised higher education institution; OR

A minimum of five years relevant work experience.

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Note:

Please note that entry requirements for this degree are provisional and subject to change.

Why Graduate Certificate in Urban and Regional Planning?

Become a builder of cities. Design and develop physical spaces to better communities. 

The planet is changing. Our lifestyles are changing. Our urban and regional spaces need to reflect these changes. Be part of that change. You could redesign our transport networks. You could revitalise our infrastructures. If you’re looking to gain a foundational understanding of urban and regional planning to kickstart you career look no further.  

Learn the history of city design, from ancient Greece to the 21st century. Navigate the government policies that regulate our spaces. Build your city. 

program overview

Overview

With our Graduate Certificate in Urban and Regional Planning, you’ll combine problem-solving skills with your passion for driving real change. 

Get insight into what it really means to design and develop a space. You’ll understand historical contexts, from the ancient world to the modern landscape. Learn how to harness the past and present to build our future. You’ll also become aware of the key considerations of an urban and regional planner – navigating policy, budget and ethics. Understand how theory connects with practice, exposing you to what a career in planning could look like. 

Start exploring how big ideas can turn into big realities with this Adelaide University graduate certificate. 

What you'll learn

Our Graduate Certificate in Urban and Regional Planning introduces you to advanced concepts in contemporary planning. Gain a strong foundational understanding in the processes that shape the spaces we live in. 

Over six months, you’ll explore topics including: 

  • Theory and practice in urban and regional planning 
  • Planning governance, stakeholders, politics and policy 
  • Integrated transport and infrastructure planning. 

Uncover the deep history that underpins today’s design philosophies, dating all the way back to ancient Greece and Rome. Recognise key developments across time and apply lessons and learnings to modern challenges. Understand the real-world contexts and constraints planners work with. Become familiar with your institutional, political and social environment. Learn how to carve a space for yourself within those systems. 

You’ll also dive into high-level transport and infrastructure concerns. Explore basic, vital systems in water, energy and communications. Develop your problem-solving skills across major planning elements, such as activity centres, public transport and the broader transition into zero carbon emissions. 

This program is designed to enhance your technical knowledge and improve your professional skills. Graduate ready to apply your knowledge in your current workplace or pursue further study. 

Design a study path that works for you

This degree is part of a stackable set of qualifications, meaning your study choices are flexible. If your goals shift, you can exit after six months of study with a standalone Graduate Certificate or after one year with a Graduate Diploma qualification. 

You can also begin your studies with a shorter qualification like the six-month Graduate Certificate and continue on to complete the Graduate Diploma (one year) or full master’s degree. 

What courses you'll study

Complete 24 units comprising:

  • 18 units for Core courses, and
  • 6 units for Electives

Complete 18 units comprising:

  • 18 units for all Program core

Course name Course code Units
course icon
Course name
Integrated Transport and Infrastructure Planning
Course code
ARCHX301
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Planning Governance, Stakeholders, Politics and Policy
Course code
ARCHX302
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Theory and Practice in Urban and Regional Planning
Course code
ARCHX303
Units
6

Course name Course code Units
Year 1
Semester 1
Course name
Integrated Transport and Infrastructure Planning
Course code
ARCHX301
Units
6
Course name
Planning Governance, Stakeholders, Politics and Policy
Course code
ARCHX302
Units
6
Course name
Theory and Practice in Urban and Regional Planning
Course code
ARCHX303
Units
6
Course name
Course code
-
Units
6

Complete 6 units comprising:

Course name Course code Units
Year 1
Semester 1
Course name
Integrated Transport and Infrastructure Planning
Course code
ARCHX301
Units
6
Course name
Planning Governance, Stakeholders, Politics and Policy
Course code
ARCHX302
Units
6
Course name
Theory and Practice in Urban and Regional Planning
Course code
ARCHX303
Units
6
Course name
Course code
-
Units
6

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How to Apply

How to apply

Applications are open for Australian students to study at Adelaide University in 2026.

FAQs

Explore answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.


Applications for Australian students to study at Adelaide University will open in August 2025. Applications will be via SATAC for most undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs.

Applications to study a 100% online degree will open in July 2025 via a direct application process.

In the meantime, you could start your studies at UniSA or the University of Adelaide in 2025 and continue on to Adelaide University in 2026.

Adelaide University is South Australia’s largest university with seven campuses across the state. Adelaide City Campus is in the heart of the central business district (including eastern and western precincts), while our Magill, Mawson Lakes and Waite campuses are located within the inner suburbs of Adelaide. Our Mount Gambier, Roseworthy and Whyalla campuses are set in the regions of South Australia. Building on our digital and online learning successes, we aim to also deliver online education to more students than any other Australian university. 

Each of our campuses is equipped with cutting-edge, discipline specific facilities, contemporary study spaces and well-resourced libraries. Our city and suburban campuses also feature on-site gyms and eateries, and health services on, or nearby, campus. 

You will be well supported academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually with access to on-campus facilities and services such as counselling, learning support, childcare, prayer rooms and more.

You will be well supported through a range of services at Adelaide University to ensure you get the most out of your student experience. Support services include:

  • Academic learning support, spanning assistance with writing, referencing, mathematics and more.
  • Advice and advocacy regarding access, adjustments and inclusivity if you have a disability, impairment, chronic health condition or significant caring responsibilities. 
  • Libraries providing flexible study spaces, access to books, computer suites and online resources – as well as referencing support, search tips and more.
  • Career development hub, including extensive self-help resources, online learning programs, on-campus events, workshops and networking, one-on-one advice, and job search support.
  • Qualified counsellors who can provide confidential support to manage your mental health and wellbeing.
  • On-campus medical clinics on-site where you can make an appointment with a General Practitioner to discuss acute and preventative health care matters.
  • Information and advice for international students regarding accommodation, student life, and academic policies and procedures.
  • An active and visible LGBTIQA+ Ally Network that ensures the University provides a supportive environment where all staff and students can safely work and study free of harassment or discrimination.
  • Prayer rooms on campus, including gender specific spaces for worship purposes.
  • Campus security available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to ensure all students feel safe on campus.
  • A range of scholarships offered to commencing and continuing students each year to make university life a little easier.
  • A number of social outlets including student lounges, gyms, student-led clubs, sports teams and free events throughout the year.

Your tuition fees will depend on your program of study and enrolment load. You can find the annual fees relevant to your program on the specific degree page under the ‘fees’ section. The annual fee payable for your chosen program will also be outlined in your Offer of Admission. 

Adelaide University will open in January 2026. Your studies will start at different times depending on what study period you’ve applied for. Adelaide University is currently using a semester model, which means most degrees start in Semester 1. Some degrees are also available to start in mid-year, sometimes with a different degree structure. 

Studies at Adelaide University typically commence in:  

  • February for Semester 1  
  • July for Semester 2. 

Some degrees, such as the Bachelor of Medical Studies and Master of Business Administration, will have different starting dates. View the relevant degree page for more detail. 

For other key dates, including census dates and exam periods, you can view the Academic calendar. 

Your study experience and support

Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.

You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.

Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.

Student services

We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:

  • Career advice and mentoring services
  • Personal counselling
  • LGBTQIA+ support
  • Academic support
  • Fees and finance help
  • Security services
  • Accommodation services
  • Common rooms
  • Prayer rooms.

You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.

Your campus

You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.

This degree is offered at the following campus(es)

Study hours

Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week. 

 

Assessment

During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include: 

  • Case studies  
  • Essays and assignments  
  • Examinations  
  • Group projects  
  • Internships and placements  
  • Practicals  
  • Presentations  
  • Reports and project documentations 
  • Research projects 
  • Workplace and classroom contributions. 
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