Bachelor of Planning (CRICOS course code 060724M) is a Bachelor Degree delivered by Macquarie University (Macquarie) over 4 years. This program is designed for international students seeking to become professional urban and regional planners in Australia. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00002J), it meets Australian Government standards for international education. Macquarie University, located in Sydney, NSW, is a public research university known for its strong industry connections and focus on employability. This page provides essential information on course content, indicative fees, entry requirements, work-integrated learning, and student visa pathways. HeadStart Academy sources all data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), ensuring accuracy and trust. Whether you're planning to work in local government, private consulting, or community development, this degree offers a pathway to a rewarding career. Explore everything you need to know about studying Bachelor of Planning at Macquarie University.
Bachelor of Planning (CRICOS course code 060724M) is a Bachelor Degree (AQF Level 7) delivered by Macquarie University (Macquarie) over 4 years. The course falls under the field of education 040103 - Urban Design and Regional Planning, which is part of the Architecture and Building group. Graduates typically gain skills in land-use planning, environmental management, transport planning, and community engagement. This is a single qualification, not a dual degree, and is taught entirely in English. The course includes a mandatory work component of 6 weeks (150 hours), providing real-world experience. As a CRICOS-registered course, international students are protected under the ESOS Act 2000, ensuring quality standards and tuition protection. Macquarie University is a government-backed institution with a strong reputation for research and teaching. This degree is ideal for students who want to shape sustainable cities and regions.
The Bachelor of Planning covers the principles and practices of urban and regional planning. Students learn about land-use planning, environmental policy, transport systems, community development, and spatial analysis. The curriculum integrates theoretical knowledge with practical skills, including project management, data analysis, and stakeholder consultation. Graduates are prepared for roles such as urban planner, policy advisor, or environmental officer. The course emphasises sustainability, equity, and legal frameworks within Australian planning contexts. While specific modules are set by Macquarie University, the field of education ensures a broad understanding of how cities and regions function. International students benefit from exposure to Australian planning standards, which are globally recognised. This course also develops critical thinking and communication skills essential for professional practice.
The Bachelor of Planning is a 4-year (208 weeks) full-time program. It is taught in English and is a single qualification with no dual award. The standard study load is 3-4 subjects per semester, with two semesters per year. Macquarie University offers face-to-face delivery at its Wallumattagal Campus in North Ryde, Sydney. There is no online or part-time option for international students on a Student visa. The course structure includes lectures, tutorials, workshops, and fieldwork. Students should plan for 40 hours per week of study and class time. The duration meets the CRICOS requirement for AQF Level 7 degrees. Extended duration may be possible subject to visa conditions, but the standard 4 years is recommended for timely completion.
The indicative tuition fee for the Bachelor of Planning is A$194,000 for the entire 4-year program. Non-tuition fees are estimated at A$1,492, covering materials, excursions, and student services. The estimated total is A$195,492. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Macquarie University sets the final fees. International students must also budget for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which costs approximately A$600–A$800 per year for single cover, depending on the provider. Living expenses in Sydney are around A$21,000–A$27,000 per year, including rent (A$300–A$500 per week for shared accommodation), groceries, and transport. The Student visa (Subclass 500) application charge is A$710 (as at 2026). Always confirm current fees on Macquarie University's website (www.mq.edu.au). HeadStart Academy does not charge referral fees—this is a free resource.
International students typically need an IELTS score of 6.0–6.5 overall with no band below 5.5–6.0, or equivalent English test results (e.g., TOEFL, PTE). Academic requirements include completion of Year 12 or equivalent with strong grades, particularly in English and mathematics. Specific prerequisites may apply; check with Macquarie University. Foundation studies are not part of this course, but Macquarie University offers pathway programs for students who do not meet direct entry. The course may have limited places and competitive selection. Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission. Students must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for their Student visa. Always refer to the provider's official website for exact entry criteria.
The Bachelor of Planning includes a mandatory work-integrated learning component of 6 weeks, totaling 150 hours (25 hours per week). This typically involves an industry placement, internship, or project with a planning-related organisation. Students gain practical experience in real planning environments, applying classroom knowledge to land-use proposals, community consultations, or environmental assessments. The work component is supervised and assessed, contributing to course credit. Macquarie University assists students in finding suitable placements, though placements are not guaranteed. International students must ensure their visa conditions allow work—standard conditions permit 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This hands-on experience enhances employability and is a key feature of the degree.
This course is delivered at Macquarie University's main campus, the Wallumattagal Campus at North Ryde, in Sydney, New South Wales. The campus is located approximately 15 km northwest of the Sydney CBD, accessible via train (Macquarie University Station), bus, and car. Sydney is Australia's largest city, home to over 5 million people, with a diverse student population from over 180 countries. The city offers world-class amenities, cultural attractions, and job opportunities. Living costs in Sydney are higher than the national average, with indicative weekly rent for shared accommodation around A$350–A$500. There are over 30 CRICOS-registered providers in Sydney offering more than 8,000 courses. Public transport includes trains, buses, and ferries, with a student concession card available. Macquarie University's campus features modern facilities, libraries, and student support services.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study the Bachelor of Planning full-time in Australia. Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Macquarie University, evidence of English proficiency, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, sufficient funds for tuition and living costs, and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). OSHC is mandatory and covers medical and hospital costs. From 2024, the Student visa application charge is A$710. Student work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during course term and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays, subject to visa conditions. Dependants may accompany and have work rights. Upon graduation, students may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) to work in Australia. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; consult the Department of Home Affairs or a MARA-registered agent for advice.
Follow this 3-step guide to apply for the Bachelor of Planning at Macquarie University:
Use the official CRICOS register or HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Bachelor Degree), field (Urban Design and Regional Planning), and location (Sydney, NSW). Confirm that Macquarie University (CRICOS 00002J) offers the course and check its registration status. Compare multiple providers to find the best fit for your goals.
Prepare your application documents: academic transcripts, English test results, passport, and a personal statement. Submit an online application through Macquarie University's admissions portal. Note application deadlines (typically October for February intake, April for July intake). Pay the application fee if applicable. The university will assess your qualifications and may request additional information.
If accepted, Macquarie University will issue a CoE. Then apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) online via the Department of Home Affairs. Provide the CoE, OSHC evidence, financial capacity, GTE statement, and biometrics. Processing time averages 4–8 weeks. Once granted, you can travel to Australia and commence studies.
Sydney offers a vibrant multicultural environment with excellent educational resources. As Australia's financial and cultural hub, it provides numerous networking and employment opportunities for planning graduates. The city faces challenges like housing affordability and traffic congestion, which planners help address. For students, Sydney's student population exceeds 200,000, with many social and support services. Living costs are higher than Brisbane or Adelaide but comparable to Melbourne. Public transport is extensive, and the climate is temperate. Consider your budget and lifestyle preferences. Sydney's diverse communities make it welcoming for international students. HeadStart Academy provides location guides to help you decide.
Ready to start your planning career? Follow our 3-step application guide above or explore more courses at HeadStart Academy.
Bachelor of Planning is a CRICOS-registered programme at Macquarie University (Macquarie). 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.