Planning for Developing Countries – (M.Sc.)

The programme consists of a range of compulsory modules (120 credits) designed to meet the professional requirements of the RTPI. Knowledge and skills are developed through a series of lecture-based modules exploring planning systems around the world, professional ethics, planning processes and strategy making, stakeholders and collaborative planning and research skills. Three project modules - sustainable development, urban planning and housing and settlements - help students relate learning to their own country’s social, economic, political and environmental context. You also complete a dissertation (60 credits).

Modules typically comprise (credits): regulatory frameworks in developing countries (20); reflexive practitioner (10); stakeholders and participation (10); cities and change (10); evaluation, analysis and research (10); spatial strategies (20); sustainable development (20); and housing and settlements (20).

The learning environment is informal and friendly and the approach to teaching offers a mix of theoretical and practical modules. You will study alongside other international students and students from the UK. We place strong emphasis on team and individual project work, allowing you to put your learning into practice. To this end a field trip to a country in Asia, Africa or Latin America provides valuable practical project experience. The field trip is not included in the cost of the programme and costs around £800 – £900 for two weeks. Students are responsible for all field trip costs. In exceptional circumstances, if a student cannot attend the field trip, alternative work will be arranged.

To support international students to make the transition to UK Higher Education, a strong element of tutorial and seminar teaching runs throughout the programme.