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.
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.
Find out how physical space can be transformed to meet community needs. Explore methods for accommodating bigger populations while promoting social equity and quality of life. Expand your awareness of the cultural, environmental and practical concerns that planners must confront. Learn from world-class industry leaders. Fast-track your study goals with our six-month graduate certificate. 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:
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.
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.
Complete 24 units comprising:
Complete 18 units comprising:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
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 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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
|
Develop the historical, cultural and practical perspectives you’ll need to start transforming our living spaces. A Graduate Certificate puts you on the path of skill development. If you choose further study to become a qualified planner, you could be consulting on big, life-changing infrastructure improvements – locally, nationally and abroad.
You could also work in:
Finish your studies in six months or take your learning further with our Graduate Diploma in Urban and Regional Planning. In order to qualify as a registered planner, you will need to complete our professionally accredited Master of Urban and Regional Planning.
With the planning profession critical in responding to major national issues, planners will have a strong future. Jobs and Skills Australia forecasts 16,200 planning roles in 2026, an increase of 18.6% in 2021 (Planning Institute Australia, 2023). Factors such as population growth which is putting pressure on existing infrastructure and public services, the rise of remote work enabling people to live in broader regional areas, and the impacts of climate change will all increase the demand for planning expertise. The planning decisions we make today have tangible consequences for the future. Adelaide University's Graduate Certificate in Urban and Regional Planning offers a quick and effective pathway to explore how we can address these challenges and make informed decisions.
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:
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.
You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.
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.
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:
