Graduate Diploma in Urban Planning (CRICOS course code 025980G) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by The University of Queensland over 1 year. This AQF Level 8 qualification is designed for graduates seeking to develop expertise in urban design and regional planning, a field within Australia’s Architecture and Building sector. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets the standards required for international student enrolment under the ESOS Act. The University of Queensland (UQ) is a leading public university located in Brisbane, Queensland, consistently ranked among the world’s top 50. With Brisbane hosting over 80 CRICOS-registered providers offering hundreds of courses, studying here places you in one of Australia’s fastest-growing cities with a strong demand for urban planners. Whether you aim to shape sustainable cities or work in government policy, this program provides a pathway to advanced standing in UQ’s Master of Urban Development and Design.
This Graduate Diploma falls under the field of Architecture and Building, specifically Urban Design and Regional Planning (Field of Education code 040103). At AQF Level 8, students typically engage with advanced theoretical knowledge and practical skills in urban planning, land use, environmental sustainability, transport systems, and community engagement. The curriculum often includes subjects such as urban governance, planning law, spatial analysis, and design studios. Graduates are prepared for roles in local and state government planning departments, private consultancies, development firms, and community organisations. While this page does not contain the specific syllabus—contact UQ for current subjects—the course builds critical thinking and project management abilities relevant to urban environments.
According to the CRICOS register, the Graduate Diploma in Urban Planning runs for 1 year (52 weeks). The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification with no dual award or foundation study component. Full-time study is expected, though UQ may offer part-time options subject to visa conditions. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) must maintain a full-time enrolment load.
Tuition is A$43,194 per year, with non-tuition fees estimated at A$1,189 (including student services and amenities fees). The estimated total is A$44,383. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as of April 2026 and are indicative only; fees are set by the institution and subject to annual review. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (rent, food, transport), and the visa application charge. For current fees, always check UQ’s official website. Budgeting for Brisbane: weekly rent (shared) A$250–$350, groceries A$80–$120, and public transport (with student concession) A$30–$50.
Standard English language proficiency: IELTS overall score of 5.5–6.0 (or equivalent). Applicants typically need a completed bachelor’s degree in any discipline, though a background in planning, geography, or architecture may be advantageous. UQ may consider work experience or qualifications on a case-by-case basis. This course does not offer a foundation or pathway program directly; however, UQ provides pathway options through its Institute of Continuing & TESOL Education (ICTE). All international applicants must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for their student visa. Contact UQ for specific academic entry scores and English test equivalencies.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory internship or work placement. However, students may independently seek part-time work during their studies (up to 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks) under their Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions.
The Graduate Diploma in Urban Planning is delivered at UQ’s St Lucia Campus, located in the suburb of St Lucia, QLD 4067. St Lucia is approximately 7 km from Brisbane’s CBD, accessible by bus, ferry, and bicycle. Brisbane has a student population of over 180,000, with excellent public transport connections. Living costs in Brisbane are generally lower than Sydney and Melbourne, making it an attractive destination for international students.
International students enrolling in this CRICOS-registered course are eligible for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, sufficient financial capacity, and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of stay. Work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Dependents (Subclass 500 secondary applicants) have unlimited work rights if the student is studying a master’s degree or higher. All international students are protected by the ESOS Act. For visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow these three steps:
**1. Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy’s filters to find courses like this Graduate Diploma. Ensure the provider (UQ, CRICOS 00025B) and course (025980G) are officially listed. Verify your intended study level and location.
**2. Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Visit UQ’s website (www.uq.edu.au) to review specific entry requirements (academic transcripts, English test results, references). Submit an online application by the deadline (typically November for Semester 1, April for Semester 2). Pay the application fee if required.
**3. Receive your CoE and apply for your Student visa** – If UQ offers you a place, you will receive a Letter of Offer. Accept and pay the deposit to obtain your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Use the CoE to lodge a Subclass 500 visa application via ImmiAccount. Prepare supporting documents: GTE statement, financial evidence, OSHC policy (you can buy UQ’s recommended OSHC), and valid passport.
Ready to start your urban planning journey? Explore Graduate Diploma options in Queensland and apply to UQ today.
Graduate Diploma in Urban Planning is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of Queensland. 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.