If you are looking to enter this dynamic industry quickly, or if you are a professional in a related field looking to pivot, the Diploma of Town Planning at the University of New England (UNE) is your strategic fast-track. In just one year of full-time study (or part-time equivalent), you can gain the credentials needed to start making a real impact.
More than just an entry-level course
The Diploma of Town Planning is designed to be high impact. It isn’t just a standalone certificate; it is a “nested” qualification. This means that every unit you complete in the Diploma is the exact first year of our Planning Institute of Australia (PIA)-accredited Bachelor of Urban and Regional Planning degree.
This structure offers a low-risk, high-reward pathway. You can graduate in 12 months with a professional qualification, enter the workforce as a “para-planner” or assistant planner, and then – if you choose – transfer your credits directly into the Bachelor of Urban and Regional Planning. In fact, more than half of our Diploma graduates choose to progress into higher studies at UNE.
What you’ll learn: The core pillars of planning
The Diploma is designed with the support of industry experts, to ensure the content is relevant, modern and immediately applicable. In just eight units, you will develop:
- Foundational knowledge: A solid grounding in planning principles, land use and sustainable design.
- Legislative frameworks: A holistic understanding of the essential laws and policies that govern Australian development, and how to interpret them.
- Environmental and social context: An exploration of how planning decisions impact biodiversity and long-term community wellbeing.
Who is the Diploma for?
This course is increasingly popular for two main groups:
- Career starters: Those looking for a shorter commitment to becoming “job-ready” for assistant planner roles in local councils.
- Adjacent professionals: Architects, environmental scientists and construction professionals who want to professionalise their experience or pivot their career.
Like Armidale Regional Council Manager Development and Certification and former plumber Mick Clynch, 51, who enrolled in the Diploma of Town Planning at UNE to complement his building surveying certification and “fill a technical gap”. He found it so useful that he has now transitioned to the Bachelor degree.
“I was enjoying it, so thought I would do the Bachelor as part of my continuous professional development. With the diploma, I could apply what I was learning right away, and it was a great addition to my toolkit. It’s all planning knowledge that will help me to perform in my role, which is to help residents and the local economy to grow.”
Why choose UNE for your planning diploma?
As Australia’s leading provider of online education, UNE offers a unique study experience, featuring:
- Industry-leading flexibility: Our online platform is designed for busy people. Whether you are balancing a full-time job or a family, you can study from anywhere safely and conveniently.
- “Grow your own” support: Many councils use this Diploma to promote staff from cadetships into senior roles. Because our content is informed by industry experts, you are learning what the market actually needs.
- Regional expertise: As a university with deep regional roots, we understand the specific planning challenges of non-metropolitan areas – a major area of demand for new planners.
Coordinator of Urban and Regional Planning courses at UNE, Dr Nicolette Larder, explains:
“Councils are literally waiting for people to finish this Diploma so they can move them from cadetships into more senior roles. In just eight units, students gain the legal, environmental and strategic foundations to start making a real difference.”
Your planning career starts today
With the current nationwide shortage of planners, there has never been a better time to professionalise your skills. Whether you study fully online or on campus, UNE provides the perfect mix of practical skills and theoretical insights.
Ready to leap? Explore the Diploma of Town Planning at UNE and start your journey today
Common Questions About the Diploma of Town Planning
How long does it take to complete the Diploma of Town Planning? Full-time students can complete the course in one year. Part-time options are available to help you balance work and study.
Can I transition from the Diploma to a Bachelor degree? Yes. The Diploma is the “first year” of the Bachelor of Urban and Regional Planning. You can transition seamlessly with full credit for the units you’ve completed.
Is the Diploma of Town Planning available online? Yes, UNE is a leader in online education, and this Diploma can be completed 100% online from anywhere in Australia or worldwide.
What jobs can I get with a Diploma of Town Planning? Graduates often find work as assistant planners, para-planners or in planning support roles within local government and private consultancies.
