Bachelor of Planning (Pathway to Master of Urban Management and Planning) (CRICOS course code 085662C) is a Bachelor Degree delivered by Western Sydney University over 3 years. This CRICOS-registered course combines foundational urban planning with a direct pathway to a master's degree, preparing graduates for leadership roles in urban management. As an international student, you will study at one of Australia's leading universities, with campuses in Parramatta and Penrith, NSW. All data on this page is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, ensuring accuracy for your study planning. Western Sydney University is CRICOS registered (00917K) and offers this course in urban design and regional planning, a field that shapes sustainable cities. Whether you aim to become a planner, policy maker, or urban analyst, this degree provides the skills and qualifications recognized globally.
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Bachelor of Planning (Pathway to Master of Urban Management and Planning) (CRICOS course code 085662C) is a Bachelor Degree delivered by Western Sydney University over 3 years. This undergraduate program falls under the field of Architecture and Building (04), specifically Urban Design and Regional Planning (040103). It is designed for students who wish to pursue a career in urban and regional planning, with a seamless progression to a master's level. The course is offered in English and leads to a single qualification. Western Sydney University is a government-funded institution with a strong reputation for urban studies, and its CRICOS registration (00917K) ensures quality and protection under the ESOS Act. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia offering more than 26,000 courses, this degree stands out for its integrated pathway and practical focus.
As a Bachelor of Planning student, you will engage with the principles of urban design, regional planning, and sustainable development. The curriculum covers spatial planning, environmental policy, community engagement, and urban economics. At the bachelor level, students develop critical thinking, analytical, and communication skills essential for planning roles. The pathway component introduces advanced topics in urban management, preparing you for further study. While specific subjects vary, graduates typically understand land use regulation, transport planning, and housing policy. This field is vital for Australian cities like Sydney, where urban growth and liveability are key concerns. The course equips you to address real-world challenges such as housing affordability, climate resilience, and infrastructure planning.
The course duration on the CRICOS register is 3 years, equivalent to 156 weeks of full-time study. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (not a dual award) and does not include foundation studies. Students are expected to attend classes on campus at the designated delivery locations. Western Sydney University does not offer this course online or in a part-time mode for international students due to student visa requirements. The standard study load ensures you meet the requirements of the Student visa (Subclass 500) for full-time enrolment.
The indicative tuition fee for the entire program is A$97,488, based on CRICOS register data as at April 2026. Non-tuition fees (such as administration, materials, or amenities) are estimated at A$900, bringing the estimated total to A$98,388. Please note: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (e.g., rent, groceries, transport), and the visa application charge are not included. For the most current fees, always confirm directly with Western Sydney University. Sydney's weekly living costs for international students typically range from A$500 to A$700, including accommodation (A$300–$500 for shared housing), food, and public transport. Use these figures as a guide only.
International students must meet English language proficiency: IELTS overall band score of 6.0–6.5, with no band below 5.5–6.0 (depending on the provider's specific test score). Prior qualifications equivalent to Australian Year 12 are expected. Western Sydney University may also consider foundation or pathway programs if you do not meet direct entry. Check the university's admissions page for detailed academic and English requirements. Meeting the minimum does not guarantee admission; the institution assesses each application holistically.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. While no work placement is required, students enrolled full-time are eligible to work under their student visa: up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Work rights are subject to visa conditions and must not compromise study progress.
Western Sydney University delivers this course at two campuses: - Parramatta Campus – located in Parramatta, a major commercial and education hub in Western Sydney. Parramatta has excellent public transport links (trains, buses, light rail) and a vibrant student community. Living costs in Parramatta are slightly lower than central Sydney, with rents averaging A$300–$450 per week for shared accommodation. - Penrith Campus (Kingswood, NSW) – situated in the outer western suburbs, this campus offers a suburban, green environment. Penrith has a growing student population and affordable housing (A$250–$400 per week). Both campuses are well-connected by train to Sydney CBD. The University has multiple campuses; these two are the primary locations for this program.
To study this course, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criterion, sufficient financial capacity (tuition + living costs + OSHC), and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Dependents may accompany you under certain conditions. Always consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent (MARA) for personalised advice. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent and does not provide immigration advice.
Follow these three steps to enrol in Bachelor of Planning (Pathway to Master of Urban Management and Planning) at Western Sydney University: 1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use the CRICOS register to verify course and provider details. Filter by course level, field (Architecture and Building), and city (Sydney/Parramatta). Compare this course with others. 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Prepare your academic transcripts, English test scores (IELTS or equivalent), and any required documents. Check application deadlines on Western Sydney University's website. Some courses may require a portfolio or interview. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – Once accepted, you'll receive a CoE from the university. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) online. Include OSHC cover and evidence of financial capacity. Visa processing times vary; apply early.
Sydney is Australia's largest city and a global hub for education, with over 50,000 international students at Western Sydney University alone. The city offers a multicultural environment, strong job market in planning sectors, and world-class transport. However, cost of living is high – average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Parramatta is around A$450 per week. If you prefer a quieter setting, Penrith offers lower costs. Both campuses have libraries, study spaces, and student support services. Sydney's public transport network (Opal card) makes commuting easy. Consider your budget, climate preference, and career goals. The field of urban planning is in demand across Australia, with growth projected in regional and metropolitan planning roles.
Start your journey to shape Australia's urban future. Explore more courses at Western Sydney University or check your Student visa eligibility today.
Bachelor of Planning (Pathway to Master of Urban Management and Planning) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Western Sydney University. 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.