Community Planning and Development

Community Planning and Development at La Trobe University is a comprehensive program designed to equip students with the skills, knowledge, and practical experience necessary to address complex social, economic, and environmental challenges in urban and regional settings. This degree offers an interdisciplinary approach, integrating principles from urban planning, public policy, environmental sustainability, and community engagement to prepare graduates for impactful careers in creating sustainable and inclusive communities. Throughout the program, students will explore topics such as land use planning, community development, public consultation, environmental management, and urban design, gaining a deep understanding of how to develop and implement policies that promote social equity and environmental resilience. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning through case studies, group projects, and industry placements, providing students with real-world experience and professional networks. La Trobe University’s strong connections with local governments, urban development agencies, and community organizations offer students valuable opportunities for internships and collaborative projects that enhance employability. Graduates of this program are prepared to work in various roles across government departments, non-profit organizations, consulting firms, and community groups, contributing to sustainable urban growth and social welfare initiatives. The program also focuses on developing critical thinking, effective communication, and strategic problem-solving skills, ensuring students can lead community development projects and influence policy decisions. With a commitment to diversity and inclusion, the Community Planning and Development program aims to foster innovative leaders who are dedicated to shaping vibrant, resilient, and equitable communities. This degree is suitable for students passionate about making a positive impact on society through thoughtful planning and community engagement.

Community Planning and Development at La Trobe University is a comprehensive and innovative program designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge essential for creating sustainable, inclusive, and vibrant communities. This degree combines theory and practice to prepare graduates for roles in urban and regional planning, community development, policy analysis, and environmental management. Throughout the course, students explore various aspects of community planning, including land use, transportation, social justice, environmental sustainability, and local government processes.

The curriculum emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, integrating insights from geography, sociology, economics, environmental science, and political studies. Students engage with real-world issues through case studies, industry placements, and collaborative projects with local councils and community organizations. The program encourages critical thinking and strategic problem-solving, enabling graduates to design and implement effective community development initiatives that meet diverse needs.

Core subjects typically cover topics such as urban development, community engagement, planning law and governance, sustainable design, and project management. Elective units allow students to specialize further in areas like environmental planning, heritage conservation, or international development. Practical skills are fostered through workshops, simulations, and the use of planning software, ensuring students are workplace-ready upon graduation.

La Trobe University’s strong industry connections provide students with valuable internship opportunities and networking events, fostering professional growth and employment prospects. The program also emphasizes the importance of ethical and culturally sensitive planning practices, preparing students to work effectively in diverse communities.

Graduates of the Community Planning and Development program are well-positioned to pursue careers in local, state, or federal government agencies, non-governmental organizations, consultancy firms, and community groups. With a focus on sustainable development and social equity, the program aims to develop forward-thinking professionals capable of shaping resilient and inclusive communities that thrive in a rapidly changing world.

• 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 Community Planning and Development program at La Trobe University offers various financing options to support students throughout their studies. Tuition fees are set annually and vary depending on the specific course load and student status. Domestic students can access Commonwealth-supported places, which significantly reduce the cost of education through government subsidies, making higher education more accessible and affordable. International students are required to pay full tuition fees, which are detailed on the university’s official website and are payable per semester or year, depending on the study plan.

Additionally, students can explore financial assistance options such as scholarships, grants, and bursaries offered by La Trobe University. These scholarships often target outstanding academic achievement, regional students, Indigenous Australians, or those demonstrating financial need. The application process for scholarships typically involves submitting documentation and meeting specific eligibility criteria, with deadlines announced annually by the university.

Students may also consider external funding sources, including government loan programs such as HECS-HELP for eligible domestic students, which allows deferred payment of tuition fees until the student reaches a certain income threshold post-graduation. For international students, payment plans may be available through the university’s financial services, enabling installment payments to ease the financial burden.

Work while studying is another financial strategy, and La Trobe University encourages part-time employment opportunities both on and off-campus. Many students secure part-time work aligned with their career interests, which helps cover living expenses and reduces reliance on loans or savings.

For enrolled students, La Trobe University provides comprehensive financial advice and planning resources to help manage the costs associated with community planning and development studies. Students are advised to contact the university’s admissions or student finance offices for personalized information on fees, financial support, and payment options. Overall, the university strives to make education accessible through a combination of government support, scholarships, flexible payment arrangements, and student employment opportunities, ensuring students can focus on their academic and professional development without undue financial stress.

The Bachelor of Community Planning and Development at La Trobe University is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to prepare students for a range of careers within community planning, development, and related fields. This program focuses on fostering an understanding of sustainable development, urban planning, social planning, and policy making, equipping students with the skills essential to address contemporary challenges faced by communities and urban environments. The curriculum integrates theoretical knowledge with practical skills, ensuring graduates are capable of contributing effectively to planning processes, community engagement, and policy formulation. Students have opportunities to undertake real-world projects, internships, and industry placements that enhance their employability and professional readiness. The program emphasizes critical thinking, ethical considerations, and innovative approaches to problem-solving, aligning with current trends in urban and regional development. Throughout their studies, students explore topics such as environmental management, social equity, land use planning, and infrastructure development, gaining a multidisciplinary perspective. La Trobe University also offers supportive learning environments, experienced faculty, and resources that facilitate collaborative learning and research initiatives. Graduates from this program can pursue careers in government agencies, planning consultancies, non-profit organizations, and private sector companies involved in development projects. They may also continue their education through postgraduate studies in related fields. Overall, the program aims to produce well-rounded, socially responsible professionals prepared to make significant contributions to community development and sustainable urban growth locally, nationally, and internationally.