Planning

PlanningWhy study Planning?

If you care about the neighbourhood you live in; the time it takes to get to work; or just the fact that water from your tap is drinkable – if you care about any of those things, then you care about planning. Planning is the opportunity to change the way we live for the better, by studying our, local environments, cities, geography and community priorities.

Australia is currently experiencing a shortage of qualified planners, and graduates enjoy excellent starting salaries and work prospects.

Planners combine their knowledge of planning practice and theory with a fundamental understanding of a range of subjects to help develop better ways to live in cities and regional areas. Graduates work in local and state government, private firms, research organisations and regional authorities and must develop strong communication and analytical skills to thrive in their careers.

Planning Excellence 2012 Victorian Awards

La Trobe University Community Planning and Development Program picked up two awards out of the nine that were given at the Planning Institute of Australia (Victorian Division) Annual Awards Ceremony, 2012. Find out more about this achievement.

PIA Accreditation

pia-thumb

The Bachelor of Urban, Rural and Environmental Planning is accredited by the Planning Institute of Australia (PIA). Graduates would be eligible for membership of the Urban and Regional Planning Chapter of the Institute. PIA course accreditation means that La Trobe's courses in planning provide a strong foundation of theory, skills, and knowledge to allow graduates to work as planners in the field of urban and regional planning.

 

Andrew Butt – Planning

Career opportunities

Planning officer, town planner, policy development, environmental planner, and environmental officer for government, councils, private firms, research organisations and regional authorities, economic development agencies, research bodies. Graduates also have the opportunity to pursue directions in areas such as natural resources, urban design or social planning. 

Courses

Local students

Planning courses
Offer yearCourse titleCampus(es)DurationSemester starts
2013 Bachelor of Arts Albury-Wodonga
Bendigo
Melbourne
Mildura
Shepparton
3 years full-time or part-time equivalent Semester 1 and 2 (February and July)

Bachelor of Arts continued…

Course description
La Trobe's Bachelor of Arts has always been an ideal avenue for developing strong analytical and communications skills and broad-ranging knowledge suited to careers in many fields. Our restructured BA aims to give you a qualification delivering real world skills to adapt to the changing world. By also choosing the Work Ready program you can add to the standard curriculum by taking work ready subjects designed specifically to prepare you for the workforce.

Students can choose up to two subjects towards a major in the first year, three in the second year and three in the third year.
You can choose a minor specialisation to develop a secondary area of expertise. Electives are available in a range of disciplines in the humanities and social sciences and also in other faculty areas (subject to prerequisites). Major areas of study are listed below:

Prerequisite
Melbourne
VCE Units 3 & 4: study score of at least 30 in English (ESL) or 25 in any other English.
Regional campuses
VCE Units 3 & 4: study score of at least 25 in English (ESL) or 20 in any other English.
Extra requirements
Guaranteed Entry for Melbourne campus - Year 12 applicants only. Applicants with an ATAR of 75 or more will be made a first round offer. Applicants whose ATAR is below 75 will be considered through normal selection processes.

Guaranteed Entry for regional campuses - Year 12 applicants only. Applicants with an ATAR of 60 or more will be offered a Commonwealth supported place. Applicants whose ATAR is below 60 will be considered through normal selection processes.

If you didn't get the ATAR there are other ways to get into this course.

Non Year 12 applicants must complete and submit a VTAC Personal History online if they wish other information to be considered during the selection process. This may include information such as work or community experience or reasons for applying.

For more information about VTAC Personal History online please visit our Extra Requirements page.
Selection
ATARs (2013)
Melbourne: 70.6
Bendigo: 51.35
Albury-Wodonga: 51.9
Mildura: 52.80
Shepparton: 61.7

Middle band
Melbourne:
Completing classical societies and cultures, contemporary Australian society, English language, history (any), global politics, literature, LOTE (any), philosophy, Australian politics, religion and society, texts and traditions = an aggregate 1 point higher per study, to a maximum 3 points. Re-ranking based on English (ESL). Literature, English, humanities (any), drama, theatre studies, legal studies and psychology. Consideration given to SEAS applicants.

Regional:
Re-ranking based on English (any), humanities (any), LOTE (any), drama, theatre studies, legal studies and psychology. Consideration given to the La Trobe University Rural and Regional Student Access Scheme (RRSAS) and SEAS applicants. In addition a regional bonus (link to http://latrobe.custhelp.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/96/kw/RRSAS/r_id/166 ) may apply.
Fee type
Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
Fee amount
Indicative (2010): CSP student contribution $5310 (per 120 credit points).

Additional information
Mid-year entry may be available.

For more information about the Work Ready Bachelor of Arts contact the Faculty Office on (03) 9479 2023.

How to apply
Through VTAC or UAC. Students applying to our Albury-Wodonga, Mildura, Shepparton and Bendigo campuses can apply directly to La Trobe University. Please note that direct applications are only available to non-Year 12 applicants and to applicants who have not already applied through VTAC. For more information about direct applications please visit Ask La Trobe.
Full course details
Course structures and subject information for the following cours(es):
Arts Melbourne
Arts Bendigo
Arts Mildura
Arts Shepparton
Arts Albury-Wodonga
2013 Diploma of Community Development Bendigo
1 year Semester 1 and 2 (March and July)

Diploma of Community Development continued…

Course description
Communities around the world seek a greater say over their futures, and governments focus on building stronger communities. Community development has become an important emerging field - helping to build bridges between organisations and communities.

This one-year course is suitable for students who would like initial qualifications in this field. Upon successful completion of the Diploma, students are eligible to enter the second year of La Trobe's Bachelor of Community Development.

The Diploma gives students the essential skills needed for understanding how communities function and change over time and identifying community priorities and needs.
Selection
Academic merit (ATAR) doesn't apply, as entry is via direct application to the University.

All applicants must provide a statement of purpose (400-500 words) outlining their reasons for wanting to undertake the Diploma of Community Development.

Fee type
Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
How to apply
Apply direct to the University, attaching your personal statement about your reasons for wanting to do the course.
Full course details
Course structures and subject information for the following cours(es):
Community DevelopmentBendigo
2013 Bachelor of Urban, Rural and Environmental Planning Bendigo
4 years full-time or part-time equivalent. Semester 1 and 2 (March and July)

Bachelor of Urban, Rural and Environmental Planning continued…

Course description
Whether you work to reduce the traffic snarls in Jakarta, plan greener homes for London or map new ways for communities to grow closer to home, there are abundant work opportunities for planners.

This course, only one of two accredited undergraduate planning courses in Victoria, equips students with a fundamental understanding of the forces that shape society and the environment in order to make informed decisions about the layout and design of cities and towns - as well as sustainable management of resources.

Students learn the history and theory of planning while also developing extensive practical skills in project managment, urban design, communication, negotiation and development. Students are offered opportunities to travel on a wide range of field trips both within Australia and internationally as part of their studies, learning best-practice planning first hand from a wide range of communities.

Graduates are recognised as qualified planners by the Planning Institute of Australia and the current shortage of qualified planners in Australia means students can look forward to excellent work prospects and starting salaries.
Prerequisite
VCE Units 3 & 4: study score of at least 25 in English (ESL) or 20 in any other English.
Extra requirements
Non-Year 12 applicants must complete and submit a VTAC Personal History online if they wish other information to be considered during the selection process. This may include information such as work experience or reasons for applying. Applicants may wish to provide other documentation in support of their application.

For more information about VTAC Personal History online please visit our Extra Requirements page.
Selection
ATAR (2013)
Bendigo: 65.35

Guaranteed Entry (Year 12 applicants only). Applicants with an ATAR of 75 or above receive a first-round offer. Those with lower ATARs are considered through normal selection processes.

Non-Year 12 selection may be based on ATAR, VTAC Personal History online, GPA, STAT Multiple Choice, and/or an essay.

If you didnt get the ATAR there are other ways to get into this course.
Middle band
Re-ranking is based on English (any), Humanities (any), LOTE (any), Drama, Theatre Studies, Legal Studies and Psychology and Business Management.

Consideration is also given to Special Entry Access Scheme (SEAS) criteria, and a regional bonus may apply.
Fee type
Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
Fee amount
Indicative (2010): CSP student contribution $5,310 (per 120 credit points).
Additional costs
Students undertake fieldwork trips that incur some minor costs.
How to apply
VTAC or Late Direct Application.
Mid-year entry may be available.
Professional recognition
The course is accredited by the Planning Institute of Australia; it is one of only two accredited undergraduate planning courses in Victoria..
Full course details
Course structures and subject information for the following cours(es):
Urban, Rural and Environmental Planning Bendigo
2013 Diploma of Arts Albury-Wodonga
Bendigo
Mildura
Shepparton
1 year full-time or part-time equivalent. Semester 1 and 2 (March and July)

Diploma of Arts continued…

Course description
This program offers an introduction to post-secondary study of humanities and social sciences with a wide choice of majors (depending on the campus of study). Students learn in a supportive environment, with structured support throughout their studies. Once students successfully complete the Diploma, students are eligible to enter the second year of La Trobe's Bachelor of Arts.
Prerequisite
N/A
Extra requirements
Non Year 12 applicants must complete and submit a VTAC Personal History online if they wish other information to be considered during the selection process. This may include information such as work or community experience or reasons for applying.

For more information about VTAC Personal History online please visit our Extra Requirements page.
Selection
Academic merit (ATAR) doesn't apply, as entry is via direct application to the University.

All applicants must provide a statement of purpose (400-500 words) outlining their reasons for wanting to undertake the Diploma of Arts.
Middle band
N/A
Fee type
Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
Additional costs
Students choosing to study subjects in visual arts or graphic design may incur additional equipment costs. Students can purchase these items from any supplier; they remain students' personal property.
Additional information
Mid-year entry may be available.
How to apply
Apply direct to the University, attaching your personal statement about your reasons for wanting to do the course.

Want to know more?

Feel free to ask us a question about any course for local students.

Fees and scholarships

Undergraduate courses are Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP) for eligible Australian and New Zealand citizens. The domestic fee calculator can be used to calculate the cost of subjects this year.

There is also a wide range of scholarships available for local students. 

International students

Show mid year entryShow next year’s courses

Planning international courses
Offer yearCourse title (CRICOS)Campus(es)DurationSemester startsAnnual Tuition Fee (AUD)
2013 Bachelor of Arts (002080A) Albury-Wodonga
Bendigo
Melbourne
Mildura
Shepparton
3 years Semester 1 and 2 (March and July) $21 350

Bachelor of Arts continued…

Year
2013
Course description
La Trobe's Bachelor of Arts has always been an ideal avenue for developing strong analytical and communications skills and broad-ranging knowledge suited to careers in many fields. Our restructured BA aims to give you a qualification delivering real world skills to adapt to the changing world. By also choosing the Work Ready program you can add to the standard curriculum by taking work ready subjects designed specifically to prepare you for the workforce.

Students can choose up to two subjects towards a major in the first year, three in the second year and three in the third year.
You can choose a minor specialisation to develop a secondary area of expertise. Electives are available in a range of disciplines in the humanities and social sciences and also in other faculty areas (subject to prerequisites). Major areas of study are listed below:

English Language Requirements
Successful completion of English for Further Studies Advanced Stage 5B certificate at undergraduate (EFS5 (60%) UG) level conducted by La Trobe Melbourne;
for more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website.

IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0 with no individual band score less than 6.0;

TOEFL Paper-based Test - a minimum overall score of 550 with a score of 5 or more in the Test of Written English;

TOEFL Internet-based Test - a minimum overall score of 60 with a minimum for SLR 18; W 22;

La Trobe Melbourne Foundation Studies: 60 per cent final result in a course;

English as the language of instruction in tertiary studies may be accepted. Please note: English as the language of instruction in previous study will not be accepted as a basis of admission (English) for courses where the approved test score requirement is above an IELTS 6.5 with no band score lower than 6.0.

Pearson Test of English (Academic) (PTE): a minimum score of 57 with no communicative skill score less than 50.

Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE): a grade of B or higher.

Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE): a pass grade of C or higher;

or approved international equivalent.
Academic entry requirements
LTM Foundation Studies - 70
Aust. Yr 12 (ATAR) 2012 (indicative only) - 70.15 Melboure campus
International Baccalaureate - 24
GCE A Levels - 7
Hong Kong A Levels - 6
HKDSE - 3 x Level 4
Sri Lankan A Levels - CCC
STPM - 8
MICSS (UEC) - 5
Canada Secondary School (or CPU) - 70
Norway Upper Secondary Certificate - 3.5
Sweden Slutbetyg - G
All Indian Sen SC (Best 5 Subjects) - 65
Indonesia (SMA) - 7.5
Vietnam (Year 12) - 8
GAC Cert. IV - GPA 2.6
GAOKAO - see: the website

If you do not meet these entry requirements you might be interested in La Trobe's Foundation Studies and Diploma Programs, which provide an alternative pathway to La Trobe's undergraduate program. For more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website.
Full course details
Course structures and subject information for the following cours(es):
Arts Melbourne
Arts Bendigo
Arts Mildura
Arts Shepparton
Arts Albury-Wodonga
2013 Diploma of Community Development (077915J) 1 year Semester 1 and 2 (March and July) $

Diploma of Community Development continued…

Year
2013
Course description
Communities around the world seek a greater say over their futures, and governments focus on building stronger communities. Community development has become an important emerging field - helping to build bridges between organisations and communities.

This one-year course is suitable for students who would like initial qualifications in this field. Upon successful completion of the Diploma, students are eligible to enter the second year of La Trobe's Bachelor of Community Development.

The Diploma gives students the essential skills needed for understanding how communities function and change over time and identifying community priorities and needs.
English Language Requirements
Successful completion of English for Further Studies Advanced Stage 5B certificate at undergraduate (EFS UG (60%) level conducted by La Trobe Melbourne; for more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website.

IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0 with no individual band score less than 6.0;

TOEFL Paper-based Test - a minimum overall score of 550 with a score of 5 or more in the Test of Written English;

TOEFL Internet-based Test - a minimum overall score of 60 with a minimum for SLR 18; W 22;

La Trobe Melbourne Foundation Studies: 60 per cent final result in a course;

English as the language of instruction in tertiary studies may be accepted. Please note: English as the language of instruction in previous study will not be accepted as a basis of admission (English) for courses where the approved test score requirement is above an IELTS 6.5 with no band score lower than 6.0.

Pearson Test of English (Academic) (PTE): a minimum score of 57 with no communicative skill score less than 50.

Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE): a grade of B or higher.

Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE): a pass grade of C or higher;

or approved international equivalent.
Academic entry requirements
LTM Foundation Studies - 70
Aust. Yr 12 (ATAR) 2012 (indicative only) - NA
International Baccalaureate - 24
GCE A Levels - 7
Hong Kong A Levels - 6
HKDSE - 3 x Level 4
Sri Lankan A Levels - CCC
STPM - 8
MICSS (UEC) - 5
Canada Secondary School (or CPU) - 65
Norway Upper Secondary Certificate - 3.5
Sweden Slutbetyg - G
All Indian Sen SC (Best 5 Subjects) - 60
Indonesia (SMA) - 7.5
Vietnam (Year 12) - 8
GAC Cert. IV - GPA 2.6
GAOKAO - see: the website

If you do not meet these entry requirements you might be interested in La Trobe's Foundation Studies and Diploma Programs, which provide an alternative pathway to La Trobe's undergraduate program. For more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website.
Special requirements
All applicants must provide a statement of purpose (400 to 500 words) outlining the reasons for wanting to study a Diploma of Community Development.
Full course details
Course structures and subject information for the following cours(es):
Community DevelopmentBendigo
2013 Bachelor of Urban, Rural and Environmental Planning (057439J) Bendigo
4 years Semester 1 and 2 (March and July) $21 350

Bachelor of Urban, Rural and Environmental Planning continued…

Year
2013
Course description
Whether you work to reduce the traffic snarls in Jakarta, plan greener homes for London or map new ways for communities to grow closer to home, there are abundant work opportunities for planners.

This course, only one of two accredited undergraduate planning courses in Victoria, equips students with a fundamental understanding of the forces that shape society and the environment in order to make informed decisions about the layout and design of cities and towns - as well as sustainable management of resources.

Students learn the history and theory of planning while also developing extensive practical skills in project managment, urban design, communication, negotiation and development. Students are offered opportunities to travel on a wide range of field trips both within Australia and internationally as part of their studies, learning best-practice planning first hand from a wide range of communities.

Graduates are recognised as qualified planners by the Planning Institute of Australia and the current shortage of qualified planners in Australia means students can look forward to excellent work prospects and starting salaries.
English Language Requirements
Successful completion of English for Further Studies Advanced Stage 5B certificate at undergraduate (EFS5 (60%) UG) level conducted by La Trobe Melbourne; for more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website.


IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0 with no individual band score less than 6.0;

TOEFL Paper-based Test - a minimum overall score of 550 with a score of 5 or more in the Test of Written English;

TOEFL Internet-based Test - a minimum overall score of 60 with a minimum for SLR 18; W 22;

La Trobe Melbourne Foundation Studies: 60 per cent final result in a course;

English as the language of instruction in tertiary studies may be accepted. Please note: English as the language of instruction in previous study will not be accepted as a basis of admission (English) for courses where the approved test score requirement is above an IELTS 6.5 with no band score lower than 6.0.

Pearson Test of English (Academic) (PTE): a minimum score of 57 with no communicative skill score less than 50.

Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE): a grade of B or higher.

Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE): a pass grade of C or higher;

or approved international equivalent.

Academic entry requirements
LTM - Foundation Studies - 70
Aust. Yr 12 (ATAR) 2012 (indicative only) - 64 Bendigo
International Baccalaureate - 24
GCE A Levels - 7
Hong Kong A Levels - 6
HKDSE - 3x Level 4
Sri Lankan A Levels - CCD
STPM - 7
MICSS (UEC) - 5.5
Canada Secondary School (or CPU) - 70
Norway Upper Secondary Certificate - 3.5
Sweden Slutbetyg - G
All Indian Sen SC (Best 5 Subjects) - 65
Vietnam (Year 12) - 8
Indonesia (SMA) - 7.5
GAC Cert. IV - GPA 2.6
GAOKAO - see: the website

If you do not meet these entry requirements you might be interested in La Trobe's Foundation Studies and Diploma Programs, which provide an alternative pathway to La Trobe's undergraduate program. For more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website.
Additional costs
Students undertake fieldwork trips that incur some minor costs.
Additional information
The Academic Skills Unit at Bendigo offers students the opportunity to improve their language and learning skills. In particular, students are provided with help in their writing of essays and reports and their understanding of critical and analytical texts. The unit also offers specialist assistance in English as a second language (ESL). For further information please view the website
Professional recognition
This course is accredited by the Planning Institute of Australia: one of only two accredited undergraduate planning courses in Victoria.
Full course details
Course structures and subject information for the following cours(es):
Urban, Rural and Environmental Planning Bendigo
2013 Diploma of Arts (075107B) Bendigo
Albury-Wodonga
Mildura
Shepparton
1 year Semester 1 (March) $21 350

Diploma of Arts continued…

Year
2013
Course description
This program offers an introduction to post-secondary study of humanities and social sciences with a wide choice of majors (depending on the campus of study). Students learn in a supportive environment, with structured support throughout their studies. Once students successfully complete the Diploma, students are eligible to enter the second year of La Trobe's Bachelor of Arts.
English Language Requirements
Successful completion of English for Further Studies Advanced Stage 5B certificate at undergraduate (EFS UG (60%) level conducted by La Trobe Melbourne; for more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website.

IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0 with no individual band score less than 6.0;

TOEFL Paper-based Test - a minimum overall score of 550 with a score of 5 or more in the Test of Written English;

TOEFL Internet-based Test - a minimum overall score of 60 with a minimum for SLR 18; W 22;

La Trobe Melbourne Foundation Studies: 60 per cent final result in a course;

English as the language of instruction in tertiary studies may be accepted. Please note: English as the language of instruction in previous study will not be accepted as a basis of admission (English) for courses where the approved test score requirement is above an IELTS 6.5 with no band score lower than 6.0.

Pearson Test of English (Academic) (PTE): a minimum score of 57 with no communicative skill score less than 50.

Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE): a grade of B or higher.

Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE): a pass grade of C or higher;

or approved international equivalent.
Academic entry requirements
LTM Foundation Studies - 70
Aust. Yr 12 (ATAR) 2012 (indicative only) - NA
International Baccalaureate - 24
GCE A Levels - 7
Hong Kong A Levels - 6
HKDSE - 3 x Level 4
Sri Lankan A Levels - CCC
STPM - 8
MICSS (UEC) - 5
Canada Secondary School (or CPU) - 65
Norway Upper Secondary Certificate - 3.5
Sweden Slutbetyg - G
All Indian Sen SC (Best 5 Subjects) - 60
Indonesia (SMA) - 7.5
Vietnam (Year 12) - 8
GAC Cert. IV - GPA 2.6
GAOKAO - see: the website

If you do not meet these entry requirements you might be interested in La Trobe's Foundation Studies and Diploma Programs, which provide an alternative pathway to La Trobe's undergraduate program. For more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website.
Special requirements
All applicants must provide a statement of purpose (400 to 500 words) outlining the reasons for wanting to study a Diploma of Arts.
Additional costs
Students choosing to study subjects in visual arts or graphic design may incur additional equipment costs. Students can purchase these items from any supplier; they remain students' personal property.

How to apply?

Enquire now about any course for international students or find out how to apply.

Fees and scholarships

Estimated fees for international students are indicated for each course above. Fees are indicative only and set at 120 credit points per course, unless otherwise stated, and may vary depending on the number of credit points in which students enrol. Some courses may vary in credit point load and fees will be adjusted accordingly.

There is also a range of scholarships available for international students to assist students.

Your study experience

Other ways into undergraduate study

Learn how you can plan a pathway into your preferred degree, including single subject entry. See also La Trobe University Access and Equity programs which support a variety of ways into undergraduate study for applicants who have experienced educational disadvantage.

Professional practice

The course includes site visits, field trips and assignments that are related to practical situations found in urban, rural and environmental planning. Students are required to participate in projects negotiated with workplaces such as local governments and to prepare material for public presentations. This experience is further developed with work experience placements in the third and fourth years.

Planning students visit Flinders Island

Overseas study opportunities

There are many opportunities for La Trobe students to study overseas. Students from overseas can come to La Trobe and do a short term Study Abroad program. Some short courses are also available to international students. Short courses are also available to international students. Visit International Students for more information.

Scholarships

Lead On Australia (Bendigo Bank) are offering financial assistance to students studying the Bachelor of Community Development at La Trobe University (Bendigo campus) for up to 2 years. Please read the scholarship summary for more information about eligibility and how to apply.

Student and graduate profiles

Students of the Faculty talk about their experience at La Trobe.

About the academic staff

You'll get to meet a large number of academics during your course, from tutors through to lecturers. You can view all the staff from the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences or focus on staff in Planning.

Planning events

Please see the Event Calendar for events that are related to this study option.

If you would like to see the latest events for this page come up automatically, please enable JavaScript.

Browse all events