Community Planning and Development

Community Planning and Development at La Trobe University is a comprehensive program designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively contribute to the creation and improvement of sustainable, inclusive, and resilient communities. This degree focuses on understanding the social, economic, environmental, and political factors that influence urban and regional development, preparing students to address complex planning challenges in diverse contexts. Throughout the course, students engage with contemporary issues such as urban growth management, environmental sustainability, heritage conservation, social equity, transportation planning, and community engagement strategies. The program emphasizes practical experience through industry placements, real-world projects, and collaboration with local government and community organizations, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for careers in planning, policy development, consultancy, and community activism. The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and innovative problem-solving, enabling students to develop strategic solutions that balance competing interests and foster positive social outcomes. Students also gain valuable skills in data analysis, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and communication, which are essential tools for community planners. La Trobe’s Community Planning and Development degree promotes a multidisciplinary approach, integrating insights from architecture, environmental science, sociology, and public administration to provide a holistic perspective on community enhancement. Graduates of this program are capable of working at various levels—from local and regional planning agencies to national and international organizations—making a tangible impact on improving the quality of life within communities. The program aims to produce socially responsible professionals committed to sustainable development, social justice, and active community participation. With a strong emphasis on both theory and practice, the degree prepares students to become leaders and innovators in the field of community planning and development, supporting the creation of vibrant, sustainable, and equitable environments for future generations.

Community Planning and Development at La Trobe University is a comprehensive degree program designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to address complex challenges in urban, rural, and regional communities. The program emphasizes sustainable development, social inclusion, and innovative planning practices to foster resilient and thriving communities. Throughout the course, students will gain a solid foundation in core concepts such as spatial analysis, environmental sustainability, social equity, policy formulation, and stakeholder engagement. The curriculum combines theoretical understanding with practical applications, encouraging students to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills through case studies, projects, and fieldwork. Students will explore the principles of urban and regional planning, community development, and governance systems, preparing them for leadership roles in various sectors including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and consultancy firms. The program also offers specialized elective subjects that allow students to focus on areas such as sustainable urban design, Indigenous planning, transportation planning, and advocacy. Additionally, there are opportunities for internships and collaborative projects with industry partners, providing real-world experience and valuable networking opportunities. graduates of the Community Planning and Development program will be well-equipped to contribute to the development of equitable, sustainable, and innovative communities. The program fosters a global perspective, encouraging students to consider diverse cultural and social contexts in their planning practices. With a strong focus on ethical decision-making and community engagement, graduates are prepared to influence policy, design inclusive environments, and lead community initiatives that make a positive and lasting impact. Whether pursuing a career in urban planning, community development, policy-making, or research, students will find this program to be a comprehensive pathway to making meaningful contributions to society.

• An approved Bachelor's level
• Applicants who don't use a qualification but who produce proof equivalent academic ability or appropriate professional experience may be admitted at the discretion of the course organizer
• NB: Fulfilling minimal requirements will not guarantee that an offer of an area
• Entry in to all La Trobe classes relies on competitive selection and there may be limited places available.

The financing of the Community Planning and Development program at La Trobe University typically involves a combination of government funding, student tuition fees, scholarships, and possibly other financial assistance options. As an Australian university, La Trobe University predominantly relies on domestic and international student tuition fees for the funding of its degree programs. International students enrolled in the Community Planning and Development program may be eligible to pay tuition fees outlined by the university's international student fee schedule, which varies annually and by program.

Domestic students can access various government-supported financial schemes, including Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP) and potentially HECS-HELP loans, which allow eligible students to defer part of their tuition fee costs until they are earning an income above a certain threshold. These government financial assistance options help to make higher education more accessible to Australian residents and permanent humanitarian visa holders.

La Trobe University also offers a range of scholarships aimed at supporting students financially. These scholarships may be based on academic achievement, financial need, or specific criteria such as country of origin or areas of interest. Examples include merit-based scholarships and equity scholarships targeted at students from disadvantaged backgrounds. Scholarship programs are designed to reduce the financial burden of tuition fees and associated study costs, thus encouraging a diverse student body.

Aside from government grants and scholarships, students may access external funding sources, including private loans, sponsorships, or employer-supported study schemes, depending on their individual circumstances. The university may also provide payment plans or financial counselling services to assist students in managing their tuition payments and other associated costs.

International students enrolled in the program typically bear the full cost of tuition unless specific scholarships or financial support schemes are available to them. The university's official fees and potential financial aid options are regularly updated on the La Trobe University website, ensuring that prospective students have access to current and accurate information about their financing options.

In summary, the financing structure supporting the Community Planning and Development program at La Trobe University comprises mainly tuition fees paid by students, supported by government subsidies and loan schemes for eligible domestic students, as well as a variety of scholarships and external funding opportunities. These combined sources aim to facilitate access to higher education and promote student success in this program.

Community Planning and Development at La Trobe University is a comprehensive program designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to address the complex challenges faced by communities and urban environments. This program emphasizes sustainable development, urban renewal, and social inclusion, providing students with a strong foundation in planning theory and practical application. Throughout the course, students engage with topics such as land use planning, environmental management, project development, and community engagement strategies. The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills, enabling graduates to work effectively with government agencies, private developers, community groups, and other stakeholders. The program also offers opportunities for practical experience through industry placements, enabling students to apply their learning in real-world settings. La Trobe’s community planning approach integrates principles of social equity and environmental sustainability to prepare students for careers focused on improving urban and regional environments. Graduates of this program are well-positioned for roles in urban planning firms, government departments, non-governmental organizations, and consultancy services. The program's interdisciplinary nature ensures that students gain a broad perspective on community development issues, promoting innovative and inclusive solutions. Additionally, the university provides modern facilities, experienced faculty, and strong industry connections to support student success. With a focus on research-informed teaching, the program stays aligned with contemporary issues and best practices in community planning and development. The program may also include opportunities for international study or projects, allowing students to gain a global perspective on community development challenges. Overall, La Trobe’s Community Planning and Development program aims to prepare graduates who are capable of making meaningful contributions to sustainable and equitable community environments, fostering positive change at local, regional, and national levels.