Studying urban planning abroad
What is urban planning?
Urban planning is about designing and managing the spaces where people live, work, and interact. It focuses on how cities and towns grow, and how land, housing, transport, and public spaces can be organised to create healthy, efficient, and sustainable communities.
This subject connects ideas from geography, architecture, politics, and environmental studies. As a student of urban planning, you will study how to balance the needs of people with the pressures of population growth, climate change, and limited resources. The goal is to build places that are both practical and enjoyable for future generations.
Why study urban planning abroad?
Choosing to study this subject in another country allows you to see different approaches to city life. You could explore high-density cities in Asia, historic towns in Europe, or rapidly expanding urban areas in Africa and South America. Each location offers lessons in how culture, history, and environment shape the way communities are planned.
International study also helps you build cross-cultural skills and gain global perspectives. Urban challenges such as affordable housing, sustainable transport, and green spaces are shared across the world, so learning from different contexts will prepare you for an international career.
What you will study
Urban planning degrees often mix theory with practical training. Depending on your course, you may study subjects such as:
- Land use planning and zoning
- Urban design and architecture
- Housing and community development
- Transport systems and mobility planning
- Environmental planning and climate adaptation
- GIS (Geographic Information Systems) and mapping technologies
- Planning law and policy
- Sustainable development and smart cities
Many universities include workshops, design studios, or real-life projects where you work with local communities and planning professionals. Study trips and internships may also give you experience beyond the classroom.
Related subjects you might also like:
- Architecture
- Geography
- Environmental Management
- Landscape Architecture
- Civil Engineering
Accreditation
Undergraduate programmes are often offered as a Bachelor of Science (BSc) or Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Urban Planning, Town Planning, or City and Regional Planning. The focus can range from design and community planning to environmental and social policy.
Postgraduate study options include a Master of Science (MSc) or a Master of Urban and Regional Planning (MURP). Some courses focus on areas like sustainable cities, housing policy, or transport planning. Doctoral programmes (PhD) are available for students aiming to work in advanced research, university teaching, or high-level policy roles.
In many countries, accreditation is required to work as a professional planner. This usually involves membership in national or international planning associations, and sometimes supervised work experience after graduation.
Careers
A degree in urban planning can lead to a wide range of careers. Many graduates work in local government, helping to design policies and manage city growth. Others join private planning consultancies or international development organisations.
Typical roles include city planner, transport planner, housing officer, urban designer, or environmental planner. Some focus on regeneration projects that revitalise old industrial areas, while others specialise in creating green infrastructure or improving public transport.
Graduates can also work in research, teaching, or policy-making. The skills gained in problem solving, communication, and project management are valued across many industries. Because cities everywhere face rapid change, your expertise will be relevant in many parts of the world.