Spatial Science (Honours) (Urban and Regional Planning)

The Bachelor of Spatial Science (Honours) with a specialization in Urban and Regional Planning at the University of Southern Queensland is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to equip students with the advanced knowledge and practical skills necessary for a successful career in planning and spatial analysis. This honours degree builds upon foundational studies in spatial science, geography, and urban planning, offering students an in-depth understanding of the spatial dimensions of human settlements and environmental systems. Throughout the program, students engage with a wide range of topics including geographic information systems (GIS), remote sensing, spatial data analysis, urban development, land use planning, environmental management, and sustainable development. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical frameworks and applied skills, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to address complex real-world challenges faced by urban and regional planners.

Students gain hands-on experience through practical placements, industry projects, and research opportunities, which foster critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. The program also focuses on developing competencies in data visualization, spatial modeling, and policy development, which are essential tools in contemporary planning practices. As part of the honours pathway, students undertake a substantial research project that allows them to explore a specific area of interest within urban and regional planning, contributing to the advancement of knowledge in the field. Graduates of this program are equipped for employment in various roles including urban planner, regional planner, geographic information analyst, environmental consultant, and development officer, working with government agencies, consulting firms, environmental organizations, and community groups.

The University of Southern Queensland's close links with industry and government bodies ensure that the program remains relevant to current sector needs, providing students with valuable networking opportunities and practical insights. The program is designed to be flexible, accommodating full-time and part-time study options, and features modern facilities and access to advanced spatial analysis software. Upon completion, graduates will possess a comprehensive understanding of spatial science principles, urban and regional planning processes, and sustainable development practices, positioning them for a successful career in shaping the sustainable and resilient communities of the future.

Program structure

Courses to be studiedUnits

Core Courses28 units

Plus 4 x Electives 4 units

Plus 5 x practice courses (0 units value)0

Total    32 units

Course codeCourse name

Year 1 courses:

SVY1102Surveying A

GIS1402Geographic Information Systems

URP1001Introduction to Urban and Regional Planning

ENG1101Introduction to Engineering Problem Solving

GIS1401Geographic Data Presentation

ENG1002Introduction to Engineering and Spatial Science Applications

LAW1101Introduction to Law 

CMG1001Introduction to Construction Management and the Built Environment 

Year 2 courses: 

ENV2201Land Studies 

ECO1000Economics 

PRL2002Community Consultation and Development 

URP2001Planning Structures and Statutory Planning 

URP2002Local Government Planning Practice and Technology 

SVY1110Introduction to Global Positioning System 

ENG2102Engineering Problem Solving and Analysis 

 One Elective - see Electives

Year 3 courses: 

SVY3202Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing

ENG4110Engineering Research Methodology

ECO2000The Macro-economy and Business 

STA3100Evaluating Information 

REN3302Sustainable Resource Use 

URP3201Sustainable Urban Design and Development 

 Two Electives - see Electives

Year 4 courses: 

SVY4309Practice Management for Spatial Scientists 

URP4203Urban and Regional Planning 

ENG4111Research Project Part 1 

URP4001Movement Network Planning 

SVY3200Land Administration 

GIS4407Web Based Geographic Information System 

ENG4112Research Project Part 2 

 One Elective - see Electives

Practice Courses: 

ENG3902Professional Practice 1 

ENG4903Professional Practice 2 

SVY1901Surveying and Spatial Science Practice 1 

SVY2902Surveying and Spatial Science Practice 2 

SVY2903Surveying and Spatial Science Practice 3 

Electives: 

ACC1101Accounting for Decision-Making

ANT1001Introductory Anthropology

CLI1110Weather and Climate 

AGR3304Soil Science 

CLI3301Climate and Environment Risk Assessment 

ECO3030Sustainable Economies 

POL3013Sustainability and Politics

MGT1000Organisational Behaviour 

ANT3006Indigenous Peoples in the Nation State

CLI3302Adaptation to Climate Change 

GIS3405Spatial Analysis and Modelling 

GIS3406Remote Sensing and Image Processing 

LAW2107Environmental Law 

PRL3003Public Sector and Public Service Communication 

SVY4304Land and Cadastral Law 

Entry requirements

• Subject pre-requisites: Year 12 English (4 SA) and Mathematics A (4 SA)

English Language Requirements

Domestic and international students from a non-English speaking background are required to satisfy English Language requirements. This program requires a minimum of IELTS 6.0 or equivalent.

If you do not meet the English language requirements you may apply to study a University-approved English language program.

OP/Rank

The 2015 OP/Rank for this program is: 11/77

International entry requirements

English Language Requirements

Domestic and international students from a non-English speaking background are required to satisfy English Language requirements. This program requires a minimum of IELTS 6.0 or equivalent.

If you do not meet the English language requirements you may apply to study a University-approved English language program.

Pre-requisites

Year 12 Senior Certificate or equivalent from a recognised institution. Find your country's level of qualificationand minimum entry requirements for this program.

• A-level Mathematics is recommended

The Spatial Science (Honours) (Urban and Regional Planning) program at the University of Southern Queensland offers various financing options for both domestic and international students. Domestic students primarily rely on government-funded schemes such as the Commonwealth supported places (CSP), which significantly reduce the tuition fees. These students may also be eligible for financial assistance through the Higher Education Loan Program (HELP), including the HECS-HELP and FEE-HELP schemes, which enable students to defer their tuition payments until they commence earning a sufficient income. International students are generally required to pay full tuition fees upfront or as per the payment plans offered by the university. The tuition fees for the program are set annually and tend to be higher for international students, reflecting the full cost recovery model.

Students may access scholarships and grants provided by the University of Southern Queensland based on academic merit, financial need, or specific criteria such as geographic location or future career plans. These scholarships help offset tuition costs and sometimes include stipend provisions for living expenses. Additionally, students are encouraged to explore external funding sources, including government subsidized loans or country-specific scholarships aimed at supporting international study.

Apart from government and institutional funding, students can consider part-time employment opportunities available on-campus or in the local community to support their living costs throughout their studies. The university provides career guidance and job placement services, which can assist students in finding suitable employment. International students, in particular, are permitted to work limited hours during semester periods under visa conditions, providing an additional income stream.

Financial planning for a program of this nature should also include considerations for living expenses, books, supplies, and insurance. The university's official website offers detailed estimations of approximate costs for attending the program annually, which helps prospective students prepare adequately. It is recommended that students contact the university’s financial aid office or international student support services for personalized advice and the latest information regarding available financing options, scholarships, and payment plans. Overall, the University of Southern Queensland aims to make spatial science education accessible through a combination of government support, scholarships, and flexible payment options, ensuring students can focus on their academic and career development without undue financial burden.

The Bachelor of Spatial Science (Honours) with a specialization in Urban and Regional Planning at the University of Southern Queensland is a comprehensive degree program designed to prepare students for advanced careers in spatial analysis, urban planning, and regional development. The program combines core principles of spatial science, including geographic information systems (GIS), remote sensing, cartography, and spatial data analysis, with specialized knowledge in urban and regional planning. It aims to equip students with the technical skills necessary to analyze complex spatial data, understand environmental and societal impacts, and develop sustainable planning solutions for urban and regional areas. The Honours year provides opportunities for research, independent study, and in-depth exploration of specific planning issues, encouraging analytical thinking and applied skills. Graduates from this program are well-prepared for roles in government agencies, consulting firms, environmental organizations, and urban development projects. The curriculum leverages cutting-edge technology and contemporary methodologies, ensuring students are proficient in using industry-standard software and tools. Throughout the program, students engage with real-world case studies, practical simulations, and fieldwork to solidify their understanding of spatial science and planning principles. The program also emphasizes the importance of ethical considerations, community engagement, and sustainable development practices, fostering responsible professionals capable of addressing pressing urban and regional challenges. The university’s strong industry links and academic partnerships facilitate networking and employment opportunities post-graduation. Graduates of the program are eligible to pursue further research or professional accreditation in urban and regional planning, contributing meaningfully to the development of resilient, inclusive, and innovative communities.