Master of City Planning (CRICOS course code 088355A) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 2 years. This program, offered at UNSW's Kensington campus in Sydney, equips students with advanced skills in urban and regional planning. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider CRICOS 00098G), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. UNSW is a leading public university known for its strong industry connections and research output in architecture and built environment. Whether you aim to work in government, private consultancy, or community development, this degree provides a pathway to professional planning roles in Australia and globally. All information below is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026).
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Master of City Planning (CRICOS course code 088355A) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 2 years. It falls under the field of education: 04 - Architecture and Building → 0401 - Architecture and Urban Environment → 040103 - Urban Design and Regional Planning. This AQF Level 9 program is designed to develop expertise in urban policy, spatial planning, and sustainable development. UNSW, a Group of Eight university, is consistently ranked among the top universities globally for architecture and built environment. The course is delivered entirely in English and does not include a mandatory work component. As a CRICOS-registered provider (00098G), UNSW is authorised to enrol international students. The indicative tuition fee is A$95,500, with non-tuition fees of A$2,000, making an estimated total of A$97,500. Note that overseas student health cover (OSHC), living costs, and visa application charges are not included. Always confirm current fees with UNSW directly.
This program covers the theory and practice of city and regional planning. Students explore urban design, land use planning, transport infrastructure, environmental policy, and community engagement. Graduates typically develop skills in spatial analysis, policy development, stakeholder consultation, and project management. While exact curriculum details vary each year, the course aims to produce planners capable of addressing complex urban challenges such as housing affordability, climate resilience, and equitable development. Field trips and studio-based projects are common, allowing students to apply planning principles to real-world sites in Sydney. UNSW's location in Kensington provides access to a vibrant metropolitan area with diverse planning contexts, from inner-city renewal to greenfield development in Western Sydney.
The course duration is 2 years (104 weeks on the CRICOS register). It is delivered full-time, on-campus at UNSW Kensington. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (no dual award) and does not include a foundation studies component. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions. The academic year typically runs from February to November, with intake options in Semester 1 and Semester 2. Students should check UNSW's academic calendar for exact start dates.
Tuition fees for Master of City Planning are indicative only, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. The tuition component is A$95,500 for the full program (2 years). Non-tuition fees (such as student services and amenities fees) are approximately A$2,000. Estimated total cost: A$97,500. This does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for international students, nor does it cover living expenses, textbooks, or the student visa application charge (currently A$1,600). Living costs in Sydney are higher than the national average: indicative weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment near campus is around A$600–800, groceries A$80–120, and public transport A$40–50. For the most accurate and up-to-date fees, visit the UNSW website or contact their international admissions office.
Entry requirements are set by UNSW and may vary by intake. As general guidance, international students typically need an IELTS overall score of 6.5 to 7.0 (with no band below 6.0), or equivalent English language test results. Applicants should hold a recognised bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in a related field such as planning, architecture, geography, or environmental science. Work experience may be considered. Some students may be eligible for pathway or foundation programs if they do not meet direct entry requirements – check with UNSW's UNSW College or Global Pathways. Always verify specific requirements on the UNSW website before applying.
Master of City Planning does not include a mandatory work component. However, students may undertake voluntary internships or industry placements to gain practical experience. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during the academic term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This work right allows students to supplement their income while studying.
This course is delivered at The University of New South Wales — Kensington, NSW. The Kensington campus is located approximately 5 km southeast of Sydney's central business district, near the suburbs of Randwick and Kingsford. Public transport options include buses and light rail. Sydney has a large international student population (over 150,000) and hosts more than 200 CRICOS-registered providers. Living costs in Sydney are higher than the Australian average, but the city offers diverse cultural experiences and strong employment prospects for graduates.
To study this course in Australia, international students require a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, sufficient financial capacity, and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. Student work rights: up to 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. You must also meet English language requirements. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; we recommend consulting a MARA-registered agent or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised advice. All institutions listed are CRICOS-registered, ensuring compliance with the ESOS Act and consumer protections.
Follow these three steps to apply for Master of City Planning at The University of New South Wales (UNSW):
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to compare courses and providers. Confirm that UNSW (CRICOS 00098G) is the right fit for your goals.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check UNSW's entry requirements, English language tests (IELTS 6.5-7.0), and application deadlines. Submit your application through the UNSW Apply Online portal or via an authorised agent.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa: Once UNSW issues your CoE, use it to lodge a Student visa (Subclass 500) application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC, sufficient funds, and a valid GTE statement.
New South Wales (NSW) is Australia's most populous state, home to Sydney, Newcastle, and Wollongong. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers nationwide, NSW alone hosts hundreds of institutions offering courses across all levels. Studying in NSW gives you access to a dynamic job market, particularly in professional services, finance, and technology. For city planning students, Sydney offers a living laboratory of urban challenges: housing affordability, transport congestion, and environmental sustainability. The state has a strong public transport network connecting campuses to major centres. However, the cost of living is higher than in other states. Consider your budget and career goals when choosing NSW as your study destination.
Ready to plan your future? Explore UNSW's Master of City Planning on the official CRICOS register and start your application today.
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Master of City Planning is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of New South Wales (UNSW). 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.