Graduate Diploma in Urban and Regional Planning (CRICOS course code 000437D) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by University of New England over 1 year 6 months (~80 weeks). This AQF Level 8 qualification is designed for graduates seeking to specialise in urban and regional planning, a field that shapes sustainable communities and environments in Australia. The course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), ensuring it meets rigorous quality standards for international students. Located in Armidale, NSW, the University of New England (UNE) offers a supportive regional study environment with access to world-class facilities. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this program is one of many that prepare students for rewarding careers in planning and development. Whether you aim to work in local government, private consultancy, or community development, this diploma provides the theoretical and practical foundations needed to succeed. HeadStart Academy (headstartacademy.com.au) presents this information as a free resource, sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), to help you make informed decisions about studying in Australia.
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The Graduate Diploma in Urban and Regional Planning falls under the field of education of Architecture and Building (04), specifically Urban Design and Regional Planning (040103). At the graduate diploma level (AQF Level 8), students typically engage with advanced concepts in land use planning, environmental sustainability, urban design principles, regional development strategies, planning law and policy, and community engagement. The curriculum is designed to equip graduates with the analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills required to address complex planning challenges. While specific syllabus details are set by the University of New England, the course generally covers both theoretical frameworks and practical applications, preparing students for professional roles or further postgraduate study. UNE's expertise in regional and rural planning provides a unique perspective on managing growth in diverse Australian contexts.
The course duration is 1 year 6 months (80 weeks) as listed on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (not dual or combined) and does not include any foundation studies. Students will need to maintain full-time enrolment to comply with Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions. The study mode is typically on-campus at the Armidale campus, though UNE offers flexible learning options; confirm with the provider. The duration may vary if credit transfers or prior learning are granted. International students should plan their accommodation, living, and study schedule carefully for this 18-month program.
The indicative tuition fee for the Graduate Diploma in Urban and Regional Planning is A$47,736. Non-tuition fees are estimated at A$5,000, bringing the estimated total to A$52,736. Please note that these fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Always visit www.une.edu.au for the latest information. In addition to course fees, international students must budget for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge. For example, in Armidale, typical weekly living costs (including rent, groceries, and transport) are around A$400–$600, but these are only indicative. UNE's tuition fees may be paid per trimester or per year; check the provider's website for payment plans and scholarship opportunities. Remember, the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act protects international students, including clear tuition fee refund policies.
International students must demonstrate English language proficiency, for which the indicative IELTS score is 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent) for this course level. However, entry requirements are set by the University of New England and may vary. Typically, for a graduate diploma, applicants must hold a relevant bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification. Foundation or pathway options are not listed for this course; however, UNE offers enabling courses and English language programs. Always refer to the provider's official entry requirements. For student visa purposes, you must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion and provide evidence of financial capacity.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component such as internships or placements. However, as an international student holding a Student visa (Subclass 500), you are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This can help you gain local experience and supplement your income. Always adhere to visa conditions and consult the Department of Home Affairs for the latest work rights.
The course is delivered at the University of New England campus in Armidale, NSW. Armidale is a vibrant regional city in the New England region of New South Wales, known for its education sector, with several registered providers. The city offers a lower cost of living compared to Sydney or Melbourne, with typical rent for a single room around A$200–$350 per week. Public transport includes buses, and the campus is accessible via the local network. UNE's Armidale campus provides modern facilities, libraries, and student support services. With a diverse student population, international students will find a welcoming community.
This course qualifies for the Student visa (Subclass 500). To apply, you must have a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from the University of New England. The visa requires proof of English proficiency, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status, sufficient funds to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC. As of April 2026, OSHC for a single student for 18 months is approximately A$700–$1,000. The visa application charge is currently A$710 (subject to change). Once granted, you can study full-time and work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term. Remember, all CRICOS-registered courses are covered by the ESOS Act, ensuring your rights. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice; consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Graduate Diploma in Urban and Regional Planning (000437D) at UNE: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy's database to filter by course level, field (Urban Design and Regional Planning), and city (Armidale). Verify that UNE (CRICOS 00003G) meets your preferences. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – Visit UNE's website (www.une.edu.au) to review entry requirements, English test scores (IELTS 5.5–6.0 or equivalent), and application deadlines. Submit your application with supporting documents. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – Once UNE offers you a place and you accept, you will receive a CoE. With the CoE, apply for the visa online via the Department of Home Affairs, including evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE statement.
Armidale offers a unique regional study experience. With a population of around 24,000, it is a smaller city known for its education, agriculture, and scenic beauty. The cost of living is lower than in major cities, making it budget-friendly for international students. There are several CRICOS-registered providers in the region, but UNE is the primary university. Public transport includes local buses, and the campus is walkable. If you prefer a quieter environment with a strong sense of community, Armidale could be ideal. Consider that part-time job opportunities may be more limited than in larger cities, but the work rights on your student visa allow up to 48 fortnightly hours during term. Always weigh personal preferences against academic and career goals.
Ready to advance your career in urban planning? Explore more courses on HeadStart Academy or contact the University of New England directly. Start your journey today.
Graduate Diploma in Urban and Regional Planning is a CRICOS-registered programme at University of New England. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.