Community Planning and Development

Community Planning and Development at La Trobe University offers a comprehensive and multidisciplinary education designed to prepare students for impactful careers in shaping sustainable, inclusive, and resilient communities. This program combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, equipping graduates to address complex urban and regional challenges such as housing affordability, transportation, environmental sustainability, social inclusion, and economic development. Through a curriculum that integrates planning principles, policy analysis, community engagement, and spatial analysis, students develop a deep understanding of the social, economic, and environmental dimensions of community development. The program emphasizes the importance of participatory processes and ethical considerations in planning, ensuring that graduates are capable of working collaboratively with diverse stakeholders, including local governments, community organizations, and private sector entities. Students have opportunities for hands-on learning through industry placements, project work, and research activities, which foster real-world experience and professional connections. The curriculum is designed to be adaptive to current trends and emerging issues in community development, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for dynamic career environments. Careers pathways for graduates include roles in urban and regional planning agencies, community development organizations, consultancy firms, government departments, and non-profit sectors, among others. The program also encourages interdisciplinary collaboration, critical thinking, and innovative problem-solving, making graduates valuable assets in creating sustainable and thriving communities. With access to renowned faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and a strong network of industry partners, students are supported throughout their academic journey to become effective planners and development practitioners. Whether aspiring to influence policy, lead community projects, or conduct research, students will find their education at La Trobe University a solid foundation for making meaningful contributions to community wellbeing and development worldwide.

The Spatial Planning Flow Inside the Master of Community and Planning Development is Licensed by the Planning Institute of Australia (PIA); Please Consult with This Handbook for further details. Professional enrollment may need an application to the professional human body and may have additional or ongoing requirements beyond the conclusion of the amount. Please contact the relevant professional body for details.

• An approved Bachelor's degree or a licensed graduate eligibility (e.g. the Graduate degree in Community Planning and Development) and approved applicable job experience, or appropriate work experience and completion of a Graduate Certificate with a 70% average
• students may begin this course at next year, if done a licensed four-year under graduate degree with an average of at least 70% at all fourth year subjects
• NB: Meeting minimum prerequisites will not guarantee an offer of an area
• Entrance into all La Trobe classes is based on competitive selection and there could be limited places available.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The financing of the Community Planning and Development program at La Trobe University typically involves a combination of tuition fees paid by domestic and international students, government subsidies, scholarships, and financial aid options. Domestic students can access funding through the Commonwealth-supported Places (CSP), which significantly reduce the cost of education compared to full fee-paying places. These CSPs are subsidized by the Australian Government, making tertiary education more accessible and affordable for Australian citizens and permanent residents. International students, on the other hand, are required to pay full tuition fees, which vary depending on the mode of study and the level of the program.

La Trobe University offers a range of scholarships to support students financially. These include academic scholarships, equity scholarships for students from disadvantaged backgrounds, and specific scholarships for students enrolling in community-centered programs such as Community Planning and Development. Application processes for scholarships are competitive and based on academic merit, financial need, or a combination of both. Additionally, students may access external financial aid and loan options, including bank loans or government schemes, where applicable.

Students are also encouraged to seek part-time employment opportunities both on and off campus to help finance their studies. The university's location provides access to a range of employment opportunities in urban and regional community planning sectors, which can be beneficial for gaining practical experience as well as supporting living expenses. Student loans, including the Australian government's HELP scheme, allow eligible students to defer paying their tuition fees until they commence employment after graduation.

The overall cost of the program, including tuition, living expenses, textbooks, and other associated costs, varies depending on factors such as student residency status, mode of study, and personal circumstances. La Trobe University provides detailed advice and financial planning resources to help students understand the costs involved and to explore the most appropriate forms of financial support. The university's financial services team offers personalized guidance to assist students in managing their finances effectively throughout their course duration.

Community Planning and Development at La Trobe University provides students with an in-depth understanding of the principles and practices involved in creating sustainable, livable, and inclusive communities. The program combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, preparing graduates to address complex issues faced in urban, regional, and social planning environments. Students explore topics such as urban design, social policy, environmental management, and spatial planning, enabling them to develop comprehensive solutions for community development challenges. The curriculum emphasizes stakeholder engagement, ethical considerations, and innovative approaches to planning processes.

Throughout the course, students participate in real-world projects, case studies, and fieldwork, which foster hands-on experience and critical thinking. The program also offers opportunities for specialization within areas like urban design, environmental sustainability, and social planning, aligning with current industry demands. La Trobe University's strong links with industry partners, government agencies, and community organizations provide pathways for internships and employment after graduation.

Graduates of the Community Planning and Development program are equipped to work in various sectors, including local government, non-profit organizations, private consulting firms, and international development agencies. The program aims to produce well-rounded professionals capable of shaping resilient communities, promoting equitable development, and contributing to policy formulation at multiple levels of government. With a focus on sustainable development, social justice, and innovative planning methods, this degree prepares students for a dynamic career dedicated to improving the quality of life within diverse communities.