Lincoln University

What you'll study

The programme combines theoretical and applied learning across land-use planning, resource management, urban design and spatial analysis. Core topics typically include planning theory and history, planning law and policy, resource and environmental management, urban and regional design, and research methods. Practical skills are developed through modules in geographic information systems (GIS), spatial analysis, project management and stakeholder engagement.

• Planning theory and policy — frameworks for making and evaluating planning decisions and policies at local, regional and national levels.
• Resource management and sustainability — environmental assessment, sustainable land use, and integrating ecological considerations into planning.
• Urban and regional design — place-making, housing and transport integration, and design responses for urban growth and rural change.
• Spatial technologies — GIS, remote sensing and spatial data methods for planning analysis and decision support.
• Planning law and ethics — statutory systems and legal processes that govern land use and development.
• Research project or thesis — an independent research dissertation or applied practice project that addresses a real-world planning problem.

The programme can be taken with a stronger applied focus (project or practicum) or as a research pathway leading to further postgraduate study. Fieldwork, studio-based design projects and industry-linked assignments are commonly integrated into the curriculum.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelor's degree in planning, geography, environmental science, architecture, landscape architecture, surveying or a closely related discipline. A bachelor honours degree, postgraduate diploma or relevant professional experience may also be considered for entry where a first degree is in another subject.

• Academic background — a good undergraduate degree in a relevant field; applicants with substantial professional experience in planning or resource management may be eligible.
• Supporting materials — academic transcripts, a statement of purpose outlining study and career objectives, and where relevant a portfolio of design or planning work.
• English language — evidence of English proficiency is required for applicants whose prior study was not in English, in line with the university's standard postgraduate requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates from the Master of Planning pursue careers across local and central government, consultancy, iwi and community organisations, property and development firms, transport authorities, environmental NGOs and research institutions. Typical roles include:

• Urban, regional and resource planner in councils and regional authorities
• Environmental and resource management consultant
• Policy adviser or analyst in government agencies
• Urban designer or place-making practitioner
• Community engagement specialist and Māori/iwi planning advisor
• Researcher or PhD candidate in planning-related fields

The programme develops the technical, analytical and communication skills employers seek, including statutory knowledge, GIS capability, project management and stakeholder facilitation.

Why study at Lincoln University

Lincoln University has a strong reputation for applied environmental and land-use expertise, making it well suited to study planning in the context of rural–urban interactions and sustainable development. The campus offers hands-on learning, with small cohort sizes that enable close academic supervision and opportunities for field-based projects.

• Industry connections — established links with local authorities, consultancy firms and community organisations provide pathways for practical projects and placements.
• Interdisciplinary approach — access to expertise across agriculture, landscape, ecology and natural resources supports integrated planning perspectives.
• Skills and facilities — teaching that emphasises GIS, spatial analysis and design studios, supported by laboratory and computing resources.

Overall, the Master of Planning at Lincoln University prepares graduates to address contemporary planning challenges with applied skills, regional understanding and professional readiness.