Graduate Diploma Urban Planning Full Time

Graduate Diploma in Urban Planning and Environment

at RMIT University · Melbourne, Victoria

CRICOS course code

103227B

CRICOS provider code

00122A

This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students. Verify it yourself at cricos.education.gov.au before paying any fee.

Duration

1 year

Tuition (whole course)

A$39,840 total

Per year

A$39,840/yr

Intake

Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul)

About this program

The Graduate Diploma in Urban Planning and Environment at RMIT University introduces students to the complex issues shaping Australian cities and regions. Through a focus on both planning theory and the environmental impacts of urban growth, students engage with topics ranging from land use, urban design, and transport planning to sustainability, Indigenous perspectives on land, and planning law. All teaching reflects a strong connection to the needs of Australian urban communities, with Melbourne's unique urban features providing case studies, and local council input helping ground learning in current practice.

The course structure typically spans two semesters, made up of core units of study worth set credit points. Students gain experience by investigating live projects and scenarios faced by planning professionals in Melbourne and other Australian settings. Through workshops, tutorials, and project assessments, students develop analytical, research, and communication skills valued in planning roles. There's also a focus on the practical application of Australian planning policy and the regulatory framework, with an emphasis on community consultation and ethical decision-making.

This graduate diploma suits people wanting to start a career in urban and environmental planning as well as professionals seeking to gain Australian planning qualifications. It is commonly taken as a pathway to further study, such as a master's degree, or by international students who bring existing qualifications but seek grounding in Australian planning practice. In line with Australian university policy, international students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while studying and may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) once graduated. Always check the official RMIT course page and CRICOS register for current details on entry requirements, unit choices, and professional pathways.

Entry requirements

English: International applicants must evidence English proficiency. IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the common undergraduate and coursework-postgraduate standard, rising to 7.0–7.5 for teaching, nursing, medicine, law and social work. TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and the university’s own English programmes are accepted as equivalents; the Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa itself.

International students: Registered on CRICOS for international students. A Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this course supports a Student visa (subclass 500) application; Overseas Student Health Cover is required for the full duration.

Career outcomes

Urban Planner roles in local councils and government agencies
Environmental Planner with consultancies and regulatory bodies
Policy advisor positions in state or federal planning departments
Strategic planning positions with property developers
Research or advocacy roles in non-profit and community organisations

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Graduate Diploma in Urban Planning and Environment at RMIT University?

It typically takes 1 year, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$39,840 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Urban Planner roles in local councils and government agenciesEnvironmental Planner with consultancies and regulatory bodiesPolicy advisor positions in state or federal planning departmentsStrategic planning positions with property developersResearch or advocacy roles in non-profi...

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