International Planning and Sustainable Development: University of Westminster

Introduction

This course is designed for planning, architecture and other built environment professionals who need updating in current best practice in spatial planning, urban design and regeneration to improve career prospects in their country or enter international practice. It addresses in an inter-disciplinary manner, the growing problems of sustainable development facing cities and communities in a rapidly urbanising world.

The course offers the possibility of study in London and access to internationally-recognised experience of spatial planning for sustainable development and regeneration. It explores contemporary theories, public policy thinking and good practice in planning that spans both developed and developing world contexts

Course Content

Core modules:

• Dissertation/Major Project
• International Spatial Planning Practice
• Introduction to International Planning and Sustainable Development
• Sustainable Community Planning
• Urban Research Methods and Spatial Analysis

For the pathway award of MA International Planning and Sustainable Development (Spatial Development Planning) you must also take the Urban Design Skills double module.

Option modules:

• Conservation Policy and Practice
• Disaster Reconstruction and Development Practice
• International Perspectives on Urban Policy
• Public Space and the Public Realm
• Sustainability, Climate Change and the Built Environment
• Sustainable Communities and Regeneration
• Urban Regeneration

Options may be chosen from other postgraduate courses offered in the School.

Teaching and Assessment

Teachin and learning are organised to help you develop core competencies in spatial planning for sustainable development in the international context. Much of the teaching is centred on development planning projects at a variety of scales. A wide variety of teaching and assessment methods are used and contributions from visiting speakers and external practitioners are fully integrated in the modular format.

You can also study for an intermediate award of Postgraduate Diploma or Postgraduate Certificate.

Entry Requirements

• A good first degree in a relevant built environment or land management discipline from a higher education institute in the UK or EU country, or a comparable qualification from another country.
• Or, a good first degree in a relevant geography, social or environmental science subject from a higher education institute in the UK or EU country, or a comparable qualification from another country; and some relevant practical experience of working in a built environment discipline.
• Or, membership of one of a built environment professional body such as the Royal Town Planning Institute, Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors, Institutions of Civil and Municipal Engineers, Royal Institute of British Architects, or the Landscape Institute, or the local equivalent in another country.
• Or, a qualification giving exemption from one of the above.
• Where English is not the applicant’s first language, an IELTS score of 6.5 or equivalent, with a score of 6.5 in all elements.
• Those with an IELTS score of at least 6.0, or equivalent, can apply to undertake the 5-week Pre-Sessional English Course run by the University prior to the commencement of the Master’s degree.