Urban and Environmental Planning / Science

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Urban and Environmental Planning at Griffith University is a comprehensive undergraduate degree designed to prepare students to address the complex challenges faced by modern cities and regions. This program provides a strong foundation in planning principles, environmental sustainability, land use, urban development, and policy formulation. Throughout their studies, students gain a deep understanding of how to develop sustainable, livable, and resilient communities through effective planning practices.

The curriculum integrates theoretical knowledge with practical skills, emphasizing hands-on experiences through case studies, project work, and industry placements. Students learn to analyze spatial data, conduct environmental assessments, and develop planning strategies that balance economic growth with environmental preservation. The program covers a wide range of topics including urban design, GIS (Geographic Information Systems), transportation planning, heritage conservation, and climate change adaptation.

Graduate students will be equipped to work in diverse sectors such as government agencies, consulting firms, non-profit organizations, and private companies focused on urban development and environmental management. The program fosters a multidisciplinary approach, encouraging students to collaborate across fields and develop innovative solutions for sustainable city planning.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Urban and Environmental Planning at Griffith University will be prepared to undertake roles that influence policy, design resilient infrastructure, and promote sustainable lifestyles. The program also provides a pathway to postgraduate studies in planning, environmental management, and related disciplines, enabling further specialization and career advancement.

This degree adheres to industry standards and is aligned with the requirements of professional planning bodies, ensuring graduates are well-positioned to pursue accreditation and employment opportunities within Australia and internationally. With a focus on practical skills, critical thinking, and ethical practice, the Bachelor of Urban and Environmental Planning at Griffith University aims to foster the next generation of urban planners committed to creating sustainable and inclusive communities for the future.

Griffith University grants credit and recognition of prior learning which may relate with prior formal instruction or previous casual and non-formal learning. To learn more, please visit the following website:https://www.griffith.edu.au/apply/credit-transfer Credit transferGriffith's advanced Credit Precedent Database allows you to learn which credit decisions are made before. All these precedents will provide you with an idea of what you can expect.https://app.griffith.edu.au/credit-precedent/credit_result.php? Ngpc=1512&-SortField=Linked%20Institutionpercent 20Name&-noresultserror=error.html&-search View credit precedents for this particular program

Program requirements for the Bachelor of Urban and Environmental Planning at Griffith University typically include completing a set number of core and elective courses, gaining practical experience through industry placements, and meeting academic performance standards. Applicants generally need to demonstrate Year 12 (or equivalent) education with a strong background in subjects such as mathematics, geography, or environmental studies. Undergraduate entry may also require English language proficiency, such as an IELTS score of at least 6.0 with no band less than 5.5.

Students are expected to enrol in foundational courses covering urban planning principles, environmental management, and sustainable development in the first year. As they progress, they select specialised electives in areas such as urban design, transportation planning, environmental legislation, and GIS (Geographic Information Systems). Mandatory courses often include urban policy, spatial analysis, land use planning, and community engagement. The program emphasizes practical skills through industry internships, which provide real-world experience and opportunities to apply theoretical knowledge.

To graduate, students are typically required to complete around 144 credit points over the duration of the program, including a capstone project where they demonstrate comprehensive understanding and problem-solving skills in urban and environmental planning scenarios. A minimum GPA may be specified for progression into advanced courses or honours programs. Students are encouraged to participate in workshops, field trips, and collaborative projects with industry partners to enhance their practical understanding. Language and communication skills are also developed throughout the program to prepare students for roles involving stakeholder engagement and policy development. Successful completion of all coursework, practical components, and assessments is necessary to receive the Bachelor of Urban and Environmental Planning degree from Griffith University.

The financing studies for the Urban and Environmental Planning / Science program at Griffith University encompass a comprehensive overview of the available funding options, scholarships, grants, and financial support mechanisms designed to assist students throughout their academic journey. Griffith University offers a range of financial aid opportunities aimed at both domestic and international students pursuing degrees in urban and environmental disciplines. Domestic students may benefit from government-funded programs such as the Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP), which reduces the overall tuition fee, or they can apply for various scholarships based on academic merit, financial need, or community involvement. International students are often required to pay full tuition, but they have access to a variety of merit-based scholarships that can significantly offset costs, including the Griffith Remarkable Scholarship and specific faculty awards.

In addition to scholarships, students can explore financial assistance through loan programs such as HECS-HELP and FEE-HELP for eligible Australian citizens, providing options to defer tuition fees and repay them through the taxation system. External funding sources, including industry sponsorships, research grants, and community development funds, are also available for students involved in research or practical projects related to urban and environmental planning. The university supports students in navigating their financial options by providing detailed guidance and dedicated financial aid services. Furthermore, part-time work opportunities within the university or nearby industries can help students manage their expenses while gaining practical experience relevant to their studies.

Griffith University also encourages early financial planning and advises students to carefully consider the total cost of attendance, including tuition, textbooks, living expenses, and insurance. The university's flexible study options and online coursework can help students balance work and study commitments effectively. International students often need to factor in visa-related costs and health insurance requirements, with various scholarships and bursaries available to ease these financial pressures. Overall, the financing landscape for students of the Urban and Environmental Planning / Science program at Griffith University is diverse and dynamic, with numerous resources aimed at making higher education accessible and affordable for deserving students.

The Bachelor of Urban & Environmental Planning at Griffith University is a comprehensive program designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to address the complex challenges of urban development and environmental sustainability. This program aims to prepare graduates for careers in planning, policy development, and environmental management by providing a solid foundation in spatial planning, land use, environmental assessment, and sustainable development principles. The curriculum integrates theoretical understanding with practical application, encouraging students to develop innovative solutions to real-world issues faced by cities and communities.

Students in this program have opportunities to engage in industry placements, workshops, and collaborative projects with local governments, environmental agencies, and planning consultancies. These experiences enhance their practical skills and professional networks, facilitating smoother transition into the workforce. The program covers a broad range of topics including urban design, transportation planning, environmental laws and policies, GIS and spatial analysis, climate change adaptation, and community engagement strategies. It emphasizes sustainable development practices that balance social, economic, and environmental considerations.

Graduates of the program are well-prepared for employment in urban planning departments, environmental consultancies, government agencies, and non-profit organizations focused on sustainable development initiatives. They may also pursue further studies in related fields such as environmental science, public policy, or urban design. The program is aligned with national and international standards for planning education, ensuring that graduates meet professional accreditation requirements, which can enhance their employment prospects globally. Overall, the Bachelor of Urban & Environmental Planning at Griffith University offers a dynamic learning environment that fosters critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and innovative problem-solving skills essential for shaping sustainable urban futures.