University College Cork

Overview

The Planning and Sustainable Development Graduate Diploma at University College Cork is designed to enhance your understanding of how various locations are planned and developed, emphasizing sustainability, policy formulation, and community-driven decision-making. This program provides an applied pathway into planning-related careers and can serve as a stepping stone for those wishing to pursue further accredited studies, contingent upon fulfilling entry requirements.

What you'll study

The program encompasses core modules that cover essential themes in planning and sustainable development, complemented by practical learning experiences. Assessments are crafted to evaluate both your comprehension of planning theories and your capability to implement them in real-world sustainability challenges.

• Place-making and design
• Community engagement and stakeholder participation
• Spatial planning across scales (neighborhood, city, and regional perspectives)
• Environmental awareness and sustainability considerations
• Urban development and planning for cities
• Legal and political foundations of planning
• International and comparative planning issues
• Applied planning competence for sustainable development

Assessment and capstone: Evaluation typically involves a mix of written assignments and practical tasks. The specific modules, assessment methods, and credit allocation may vary—refer to the program handbook or website for the most accurate information.

Applied outputs: You may be tasked with creating planning-related documents, such as policy analyses or scenario-based planning exercises, based on module specifications.

Entry requirements

Academic entry

• Applicants are required to possess a Second Class Honours primary degree (NFQ Level 8) or higher in a relevant field (such as social sciences, humanities, law, commerce, health, engineering, architecture, or similar disciplines).
• Admission is generally based on academic performance and may involve a written statement of interest, an interview, and consideration of pertinent experience if applicable.

English language requirements

• IELTS: minimum 6.5 overall
• TOEFL iBT: minimum 90 overall
• PTE Academic: minimum 63 overall
• Duolingo English Test: minimum 120 overall
• Oxford Test of English (OTE): minimum 140 overall

Important: Please verify the latest English language requirements and acceptable test dates on the program website prior to submitting your application.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Planning and Sustainable Development program are well-equipped for a range of careers in urban planning, environmental consultancy, policy development, and community engagement. The skills and knowledge gained during the course prepare students for impactful roles in fostering sustainable development and effective planning practices within various sectors.