Development Planning

The MSc in Development Planning at the University of the Witwatersrand provides a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to understanding and addressing the complex challenges associated with urban and regional development in Africa and beyond. This programme is designed for students who are passionate about sustainable development, spatial planning, public policy, and socio-economic transformation. The curriculum offers a blend of theoretical frameworks and practical skills, equipping graduates to formulate, implement, and evaluate development plans that promote equitable growth, environmental sustainability, and social justice.

Students will engage with core concepts such as urban and regional planning, environmental management, policy analysis, and project management. The programme emphasizes the importance of participatory planning processes, stakeholder engagement, and evidence-based decision-making. Through a combination of lectures, workshops, case studies, and fieldwork, students develop critical analytical skills to assess development needs, design innovative solutions, and navigate the complexities of governance and institutional frameworks.

The programme encourages interdisciplinary collaboration and often involves partnerships with government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and private sector entities. Graduates of the MSc in Development Planning are prepared for careers in urban and regional planning, development consultancy, policy advisory roles, and research. They play vital roles in crafting strategies that aim to improve living conditions, reduce disparities, and foster resilience in communities facing rapid urbanization and climate change.

The Department of Urban and Regional Planning at Wits University is renowned for its research excellence and its commitment to addressing development challenges pertinent to Africa. Students benefit from expert faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and a vibrant academic environment that fosters innovation and social impact. This programme is ideal for those committed to making a meaningful difference in development policy and practice through informed planning and strategic intervention.

The MSc DP consists of coursework and research. The coursework focuses on planning theory and issues of governance, with particular attention paid to municipal planning. Learners are also able to select courses from a range of options within the School and outside of it. Where learners have covered the material dealt with in particular courses at a requisite level, they may be allowed to substitute those courses with others of relevance to development planning. The research report is a very important element of the degree, accounting for half the degree credits.

The courses offered by the School include the following:

• Philosophies, Theories and Methodologies of Development Planning 
• Municipal Planning and Finance  
• Research Report 

The above courses are compulsory, but students may take elective courses from other degrees, such as Master of Science in Construction and Management, Master of Built Environment, Masters in Urban Studies, Masters of Urban Design, Master of Public Administration, or any combination of existing units that Senate may approve. In addition, the unit, Specialised Topics in Planning, which deals with a range of theories and issues relevant to understanding specialised topics in the planning field may be taken as one of the electives. 

• A Bachelor of Science Honours in City/Town/Urban and Regional Planning (BSc Hons URP) with an average of at least 60%; or
• The Postgraduate Diploma in Planning (PG Dip) with an average of at least 60%.
• Certified copies of all your degree certificates and a full academic transcript covering all periods of registration. Include all details of courses undertaken and the marks obtained. Certified copies must bear the original Commissioner of Oaths’ stamp and signature. Any documentation not in English must be translated and sworn to by an authorised translator. Credit certificates are not acceptable. 
• Curriculum vitae. 
• An applicant to a postgraduate programme who holds a foreign qualification, is required to submit proof of evaluation of the qualification by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).
• Attach certified copies of all your programme certificates and a full transcript of your academic record, to your application form. If you have applied for Financial Aid, obtain a separate copy for their records;
• Include all details of courses undertaken and the marks obtained. Any documentation not in English must be translated and sworn to by an authorised translator.
• A pass in the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) with a score of at least 7.0. 
• A non-refundable application fee of R200 is required. 

The Master of Development Planning (MDP) program at the University of the Witwatersrand offers various financing options to support students throughout their studies. Tuition fees for the program vary depending on the student's residency status and whether they are considered international or local students. Generally, the fees are structured to be accessible to a diverse student body, with information on current rates available on the university’s official website. Students are encouraged to explore various financial aid opportunities, including scholarships, bursaries, and grants administered by the university or external organizations. The university offers merit-based scholarships for outstanding students, which are highly competitive and require a strong academic record. Bursaries are often awarded based on financial need and academic performance, and students are advised to submit their applications early to be considered. The university also provides information about student loans, including government-funded loan schemes and private financing options, which can be utilized to cover tuition fees and living expenses. International students are advised to seek additional funding sources, including international scholarships and sponsorship programs from their home countries. Additionally, students are encouraged to consider part-time work opportunities available through the university, which can help offset living costs while gaining practical experience. It is important to note that financing options and eligibility criteria may vary year by year, so prospective students should consult the official university portal for the most current information. Financial planning for the duration of the program is essential, and students should carefully review all funding opportunities and application procedures well in advance of the start of their studies. The university also offers financial counseling services to help students plan their budgets effectively and navigate the application process for various funding sources. In summary, while exact tuition fees and funding opportunities may fluctuate, the University of the Witwatersrand provides a comprehensive range of financial support mechanisms to assist students enrolled in the Development Planning program, ensuring that qualified candidates can access quality education regardless of their financial background.

Development Planning at the University of the Witwatersrand offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip students with the skills necessary for effective urban and regional planning. The program covers key areas such as sustainable development, environmental management, infrastructure planning, and socio-economic analysis. Students are exposed to a mixture of theoretical knowledge and practical application, preparing them for careers in government, private sector, non-governmental organizations, and international agencies involved in development initiatives. The course integrates contemporary issues like urbanization, climate change, and social inequality, encouraging students to develop innovative solutions for complex development challenges. Advanced modules include land use planning, spatial analysis, policy formulation, and project management, with opportunities for fieldwork and internships that connect academic learning to real-world contexts. The faculty consists of experienced professionals and researchers committed to fostering critical thinking, ethical practice, and community engagement. Graduates of the program are equipped to influence policy, design sustainable communities, and contribute to sustainable development goals at local, national, and global levels. The program emphasizes multidisciplinary approaches, integrating insights from economics, sociology, environmental sciences, and political studies, fostering holistic and inclusive development planning strategies. Students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities, collaborative projects, and seminars featuring industry experts, ensuring they stay abreast of latest trends and innovations in the field. Upon completion, graduates receive a recognized degree qualifying them for various roles in urban and regional development, planning consultancy, research, and academia. The program also encourages further postgraduate study and research, supporting ongoing professional development and lifelong learning in development planning.