Massey University

What you'll study

The programme provides concentrated study in core planning topics, combining theory and practical skills. Typical papers cover:

• Planning theory and practice – fundamentals of planning, statutory context and the role of planners in decision-making.
• Resource Management and environmental planning – principles of resource management, consenting processes and environmental impact assessment.
• Planning law and policy – the legal and policy frameworks that underpin land-use and development decisions.
• Technical skills for planners – applied skills such as spatial analysis, use of GIS in planning, and data interpretation for plan-making.
• Urban design and place-making – design considerations for public space, housing, transport and sustainable urban outcomes.
• Māori and indigenous planning perspectives – kaupapa Māori approaches to land use, partnership in planning and engagement with iwi and hapū.
• Research and professional practice – short research or project work that applies learning to a real planning problem or workplace issue.

The Graduate Certificate is structured for flexible study and can be taken part-time or in combination with professional commitments. Delivery commonly includes lectures, workshops, studio or field-based activities and an applied project or assignment.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelors degree in a relevant discipline (for example environmental science, geography, design, engineering, architecture, sociology or similar) or equivalent professional experience. Candidates without a degree but with substantial relevant work experience in planning, local government or resource management may be considered.

International applicants must meet Massey Universitys English language requirements. You will normally apply with an academic transcript, a CV outlining relevant work experience, and may be asked for a statement of purpose describing how the qualification fits your career goals.

Career prospects

Graduates use the Graduate Certificate to update skills for current roles or to move into planning-related careers. Common career paths include:

• Resource or district planner in local and regional councils
• Environmental planning or consenting officer
• Consultant in planning, environmental and resource management firms
• Urban design or development adviser in public and private sectors
• Transport planning and infrastructure strategy roles
• Advisory roles in iwi/hapū organisations, community development and NGOs
• Progression to further study such as the Graduate Diploma or Masters in Planning for those seeking professional accreditation or advanced technical training

Why study at Massey University

Masseys planning qualifications are taught by staff with a blend of academic research and practical experience in planning, resource management and urban design. The School has strong connections with local and regional councils, consultancy practices and iwi, which helps ensure teaching reflects current practice and provides networking opportunities.

Massey offers flexible delivery modes to suit working professionals, including blended and distance options, and emphasises applied projects and field-based learning. Students benefit from interdisciplinary links across environmental science, architecture, landscape and social sciences, preparing them to address complex planning challenges in Aotearoa New Zealand and beyond.