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Town and Regional Planning

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Ready to apply? You can apply for this course online now using the UCAS website. The deadline for UK students to apply for this course is 31 January 2024.

The deadline for international students is 30 June 2024.

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Use these details to apply for this course through UCAS:

  • University name: University of Liverpool
  • Course: Town and Regional Planning K400
  • Location: Main site
  • Start date: 23 September 2024

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Master of Town and Regional Planning

Master of Town and Regional Planning, MPlan, is an integrated master’s degree which combines undergraduate and postgraduate study into a single course.

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Course overview

The Town and Regional Planning MPlan programme is designed for those who wish to pursue a professional career in urban, regional and environmental planning. The MPlan offers two pathways with distinct specialisms in transforming cities and regions and spatial planning for environmental change.

Introduction

Attention is focused on approaches to planning for the urban environment in a rapidly changing world. An interdisciplinary approach to study provides learning opportunities that draw upon the expertise of academics in Planning as well as academics in the Departments of Geography, Sociology and Architecture.

With major changes occurring in how we address transport infrastructure, housing and green belt development studying a degree in Planning from the University of Liverpool provides the practical skills, as well as, the theoretical understanding required to balance the needs of urban and rural development.

You will develop a broad overview of how our towns, cities and regions have developed and have an opportunity to specialise in environmental or urban regeneration issues. With a pioneering approach to planning and regeneration, Liverpool is an ideal location in which to study town and regional planning. Over the past 30 years Liverpool has been transformed economically, socially and environment. Staff and students from Planning at the University of Liverpool have been part of these changes as they have been observing, reflecting and helping local planners, developers and communities to shape these changes. This makes Liverpool an ideal urban laboratory to study how our world is changing.

The Town and Regional Planning (MPlan) programme is designed to satisfy the professional accreditation requirements of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) and enables you to fast track into the planning profession. It is a combined programme that meets both spatial and specialist RTPI planning requirements.

You will have the opportunity, from year three onwards, to specialise in either Spatial planning and environmental change or Transforming cities and regions. The four year programme provides you with a more in-depth understanding of the practice-orientated nature of planning and its context than can be achieved in a one-year intensive masters programme.

Work experience opportunities

You will have the opportunity to work with real practitioners as we work with local and international experts on projects and field trips. You are also encouraged to undertake internships or placements with planning agencies throughout your programme.

A flexible approach

The Town and Regional Planning (MPlan) programme has been developed alongside our other planning programmes allowing you to transfer between programmes within the first two years should your interests or career aspirations change.

A number of the School’s degree programmes involve laboratory and field work. Fieldwork is carried out in various locations, ranging from inner city to coastal and mountainous environments. We consider applications from prospective disabled students on the same basis as all other students, and reasonable adjustments will be considered to address barriers to access.

What you'll learn

  • An awareness and appreciation of the current planning profession
  • A depth of knowledge and understanding of a particular aspect of the field of town and regional planning
  • The development of sound practice skills in the methods and techniques of planning
  • An understanding of the legal framework within which planning operates
  • An awareness and appreciation of planning practice in other European countries
  • The development of skills in analysis, synthesis, reasoned argument and communication
  • Knowledge of the theoretical underpinnings of planning
  • The development of research, teamwork and other professional skills of relevance to planning practice

Accreditation

The programme is accredited by the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) and Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (IEMA), providing combined spatial and specialist accreditation (dependent upon module selection in year three).

Accreditations in detail

Accreditations

The programme is accredited by the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) and Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (IEMA), providing combined spatial and specialist accreditation (dependent upon module selection in year three).

Course content

Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.

Year one

Your first year of study introduces you to planning issues and the circumstances in which they arise. It provides an understanding of how planning powers, agencies and policies work to overcome the challenges that face cities and communities. You will also improve your oral, written and visual communication skills and engage in group-based problem solving and practical work with a residential field trip so you can put your newfound skills into practice in a real-life setting.

You will take the following compulsory modules and select two choices from the optional modules detailed below.

Compulsory modules

Community Planning (ENVS102)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 2

Planning is about providing good quality places for people to live in. This is an issue at different scales, from the global through the national to the local, and the community level. This module focuses on the latter; it investigates the factors which affect the quality of places at the neighbourhood scale and the role played by communities. The module features a mixture of interactive learning styles, including lectures, seminars and workshops. In the second half of the module, a real-life project is introduced, building on the skills developed in this and other modules.

Contemporary Town Planning (ENVS152)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 2

The aim of this module is to extend your understanding of the form and operation of planning systems at the local level;
To provide practical experience of surveying, analysis and policy relevance for planning purposes;
To develop skills ingroup working, written and graphic presentation.

Ecology and Conservation (ENVS157)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 2

The zone of life on earth, or the ‘biosphere’, is a highly dynamic system responding to external pressures including changing human activities. The biosphere obeys a numbers of simple natural principles, but these often interact to create complex and sometimes unexpected responses. Using a wide range of examples we will explore these interactions between organisms and the environment. We will examine how species organise into communities, and how energy and other resources flow through ecosystems. We will explore how ecosystems respond to change, including gradual environmental shifts, sudden disturbance events and the effects of human activities. We will also learn how the key principles of ecology can be applied to conservation. We will assess the current state of the biosphere, and evaluate the major current threats. We will also look towards the future of ecosystems, including whether we can restore degraded habitats, and recreate “natural” landscapes.

Town and Country Planning: An Introduction (ENVS110)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

Town and Country Planning: An Introduction provides an overview of the history of the town planning movement in Britain, an overview of the current workings of the planning system, and the practical applications of planning thinking.

Understanding Place (ENVS105)

Credits: 15 / Semester: whole session

This year-long module is delivered through a mixture of lectures, seminars, practical exercises and tutorials. It provides students with the insight and skills to understand how places are planned through academic papers, policy reports and planning proposals. The module provides some of the core academic skills needed to write essays and reports for other modules. It also introduces the students to the documents used in planning practice. The module includes a field activity.

Urban and Environmental Economics (ENVS155)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

​The module prepares students with a grounding of contemporary planning issues as they pertain to urban and environmental economics.  The module is assessed by 50% coursework and 50% examination.

Optional modules

CONTEXT 1.1: HISTORY OF ARCHITECTURE (ARCH171)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

History of architecture survey course.

Human Geography Through Merseyside (ENVS162)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 2

The aim of the module is to introduce key areas of human geography through the lens of Liverpool and Merseyside. The module has a strong practical and field element and focuses on four aspects of the discipline: Population Geographies; Health and Economic Geographies; Social and Cultural Geographies; and Historical and Political Geographies. These aspects are explored through thematic blocks, each posing a research question about Liverpool and Merseyside. The module also aims to develop skills of data collection, analysis and interpretation and to enable you to link conceptual ideas with real word examples.​ ​

Living with Environmental Change (ENVS119)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

This module examines a number of global scale challenges facing humans on the planet earth related to climate and environmental change.

New Horizons in Human Geography (ENVS116)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 2

This module introduces new aspects of geographical thought to the First Year students which are unlikely to have been encountered via an A level geography syllabus. It also aims to enhance students’ understanding and awareness of complex global issues, focusing on two sub-disciplinary themes in human geography. Exact content will vary each year to reflect changes in the discipline, but broadly, one area will focus on understanding human population changes and geographical data (e.g. health or population geographies), whilst another will explore social, cultural and political approaches to geography (e.g. geopolitics, borders and nation-states).

Research Frontiers in Human Geography (ENVS161)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

Contemporary Human Geography is a diverse discipline which offers unique insights into many of the most pressing challenges facing the world in the 21st Century. Many of the issues that reach the headlines on a daily basis are inherently geographical and research within human geography makes important contributions to knowledge of a broad range of social, cultural, political, economic, environmental and development challenges. This module provides an introduction to cutting edge debates within contemporary human geography, highlighting the ways in which the discipline contributes to interdisciplinary knowledge production across the humanities and social sciences. Each week, module lectures will provide an introduction to a different sub-disciplinary field, which will be explored with the aid of specific worked examples which encourage students to apply the theoretical issues discussed to ‘real world’ issues. Assessment is by coursework (mid-term essay) and a written exam (end-of-term).

Global Challenges: Development, Inequality, Alternatives (ENVS144)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 2

This module has been crafted to appeal to students who would like to live in a better world and are interested in exploring and discussing critical approaches to inequality. It is designed to assist students in understanding the multiple and contested ways in which "global challenges" and "international development" are defined and studied. Indeed, a degree in either the environmental or social sciences is arguably incomplete if it has not paid critical attention to uneven processes of "development" over time and space, particularly if one is concerned with challenges related to global environmental change, inequality, and health. Similarly, a solid foundation in any field found within the environmental or social sciences must include a fulsome and nuanced analysis of the historical, political, and economic forces related to globalisation, not to mention be critically informed about what globalisation produces for differing communities, cultures, and ecosystems. This module provides precisely those two things: a comprehensive and critical understanding of challenges and inequalities related to "development" and the discourses surrounding it; and a breadth and depth of critical analyses related to the driving forces, processes, and products of globalisation. Students will also gain insight into how varying communities in different places are responding to development, globalisation, environmental injustices, and inequality through both resistance and building alternatives.

Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.

Our curriculum

The Liverpool Curriculum framework sets out our distinctive approach to education. Our teaching staff support our students to develop academic knowledge, skills, and understanding alongside our graduate attributes:

  • Digital fluency
  • Confidence
  • Global citizenship

Our curriculum is characterised by the three Liverpool Hallmarks:

  • Research-connected teaching
  • Active learning
  • Authentic assessment

All this is underpinned by our core value of inclusivity and commitment to providing a curriculum that is accessible to all students.

Course options

Studying with us means you can tailor your degree to suit you. Here's what is available on this course.

Global Opportunities

University of Liverpool students can choose from an exciting range of study placements at partner universities worldwide. Choose to spend a year at XJTLU in China or a year or semester at an institution of your choice.

What's available on this course?

Year in China

Immerse yourself in Chinese culture on an optional additional year at Xi'an Jiaotong Liverpool University in stunning Suzhou.

  • Learn Chinese
  • Study in a bustling world heritage city
  • Improve employment prospects
  • Study Chinese culture
  • 30 minutes from Shanghai
  • Learn new skills

Read more about Year at XJTLU, China

Language study

Every student at The University of Liverpool can study a language as part of, or alongside their degree. You can choose:

  • A dedicated languages degree
  • A language as a joint or major/ minor degree
  • Language modules (selected degrees)
  • Language classes alongside your studies

Read more about studying a language

Your experience

All of our programmes benefit from the expertise of our academic staff who are leading global discussions in spatial planning, planning economics, marine planning, and environmental assessment and management. This means you will benefit from research-led teaching, bringing the latest planning theory and practice into the classroom. Within the Department we also edit two respected peer-reviewed academic journals (Town Planning Review and Impact Assessment and Project Appraisal) and host the Centre for Sustainable and Resilient Cities and the Environmental Assessment and Management Centre. All of this means you can be confident that your learning is at the forefront of the discipline.

Virtual tour

Supporting your learning

From arrival to alumni, we’re with you all the way:

Careers and employability

Our Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) and Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (IEMA) accredited programmes ensure that you are fully qualified to enter this dynamic profession on graduation.

If you wish to continue your education beyond your undergraduate degree we also offer a range of postgraduate degrees, including our RTPI accredited Master of Civic Design.

We also offer a series of specialist postgraduate programmes including:

  • MSc Marine Planning and Management (RTPI accredited)
  • MSc Environmental Assessment and Management (IEMA accredited)
  • MA Town and Regional Planning.
  • Further PhD study.

Career paths taken by our recent graduates:

  • Planning and environmental consultants
  • Transport planning and urban regeneration
  • Economic development
  • Environmental management
  • GIS and data science specialists
  • Social housing.

Our recent graduates have found employment with the following:

  • Consultancy: Atkins, Arup, Indigo, Savills
  • Local Authority: Islington Borough Council, Lancashire County Council
  • Public bodies: Transport for London (TFL), Natural England, Environment Agency, National Parks Authorities
  • Non-governmental organisations: Liverpool Vision, Council for the Protection of Rural England, RSPB
  • Advocacy: Housing associations, social enterprise, economic development.

90% of geography and planning students are in work and/or further study 15 months after graduation.

Discover Uni, 2018-19.

Fees and funding

Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.

Tuition fees

UK fees (applies to Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland)
Full-time place, per year £9,250
Year abroad fee £1,385
International fees
Full-time place, per year £22,400
Year abroad fee £11,200
Fees stated are for the 2023-24 academic year and may rise for 2024-25.

Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching and assessment, operating facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support. Learn more about tuition fees, funding and student finance.

Additional costs

We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This may include a laptop, books, or stationery. Additional costs for this course could include field class and project costs.

Find out more about the additional study costs that may apply to this course.

Additional study costs

We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This may include a laptop, books, or stationery. Additional costs for this course could include field class and project costs.

Project/dissertation costs

The School of Environmental Sciences will provide a budget of up to £200 for field/lab-based projects. Desk-based projects receive no budget.

Field classes

Core costs for compulsory field classes are covered.

Year three optional field classes:

  • Option A: One-week residential field class in Europe (e.g. Paris). Students meet travel and subsistence costs
  • Option B: Two-week residential field class in China (Shanghai). Students meet full costs.

Find out more about additional study costs.

Scholarships and bursaries

We offer a range of scholarships and bursaries to help cover tuition fees and help with living expenses while at university.

Scholarships and bursaries you can apply for from the United Kingdom

Entry requirements

The qualifications and exam results you'll need to apply for this course.

My qualifications are from: United Kingdom.

Your qualification Requirements

About our typical entry requirements

A levels

ABB

Applicants with the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) are eligible for a reduction in grade requirements. For this course, the offer is BBB with A in the EPQ.

You may automatically qualify for reduced entry requirements through our contextual offers scheme.

T levels

T levels considered in a relevant subject.

Applicants should contact us by completing the enquiry form on our website to discuss specific requirements in the core components and the occupational specialism.

GCSE 4/C in English and 4/C in Mathematics
BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma

D*DD in relevant diploma.

International Baccalaureate

33 points, with no score less than 4.

Irish Leaving Certificate H1, H2, H2, H2, H3, H3
Scottish Higher/Advanced Higher

Not accepted with out Advanced Highers at grades ABB.

Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Accepted at grade B, including two A levels at AB.
Access Access - 45 Level 3 credits in graded units in a relevant Diploma, including 30 at Distinction and a further 15 with at least Merit.
International qualifications

Many countries have a different education system to that of the UK, meaning your qualifications may not meet our entry requirements. Completing your Foundation Certificate, such as that offered by the University of Liverpool International College, means you're guaranteed a place on your chosen course.

Contextual offers: reduced grade requirements

Based on your personal circumstances, you may automatically qualify for up to a two-grade reduction in the entry requirements needed for this course. When you apply, we consider a range of factors – such as where you live – to assess if you’re eligible for a grade reduction. You don’t have to make an application for a grade reduction – we’ll do all the work.

Find out more about how we make reduced grade offers.

About our entry requirements

Our entry requirements may change from time to time both according to national application trends and the availability of places at Liverpool for particular courses. We review our requirements before the start of the new UCAS cycle each year and publish any changes on our website so that applicants are aware of our typical entry requirements before they submit their application.

Recent changes to government policy which determine the number of students individual institutions may admit under the student number control also have a bearing on our entry requirements and acceptance levels, as this policy may result in us having fewer places than in previous years.

We believe in treating applicants as individuals, and in making offers that are appropriate to their personal circumstances and background. For this reason, we consider a range of factors in addition to predicted grades, widening participation factors amongst other evidence provided. Therefore the offer any individual applicant receives may differ slightly from the typical offer quoted in the prospectus and on the website.

Alternative entry requirements

  • If your qualification isn't listed here, or you're taking a combination of qualifications, contact us for advice
  • Aged 20+ and without formal qualifications? The one-year Go Higher diploma qualifies you to apply for University of Liverpool arts, humanities and social sciences programmes
  • Applications from mature students are welcome.

Changes to Town and Regional Planning MPlan

See what updates we've made to this course since it was published. We document changes to information such as course content, entry requirements and how you'll be taught.

7 June 2022: New course pages

New course pages launched.

7 December 2022: Accreditation information update

Accreditation section text changed from:

‘The programme is accredited by the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) and Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (IEMA) , providing combined spatial and specialist accreditation.’

to:

‘The programme is accredited by the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) and Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (IEMA), providing combined spatial and specialist accreditation (dependent upon module selection in year three)’