Graduate Diploma in City Planning UNSW

Graduate Diploma in City Planning (CRICOS 088356M)

Graduate Diploma in City Planning (CRICOS course code 088356M) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 1 year. This program equips you with the skills to shape sustainable urban environments, covering policy, design, and community engagement. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00098G), it meets the Australian Government's quality standards for international students. Whether you're planning to work in local government, private consultancy, or development, this Graduate Diploma offers a strong foundation in urban and regional planning. All data on this page is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) — your trusted guide to studying in Australia.

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Data sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026)
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Course overview

Graduate Diploma in City Planning (CRICOS course code 088356M) is a Graduate Diploma (AQF Level 8) delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 1 year (52 weeks). This course falls under the field of Architecture and Building, specialising in Urban Design and Regional Planning. It is designed for students who want to deepen their understanding of city planning principles, including land use, transport, and environmental sustainability. As a CRICOS-registered qualification, it is available to international students and provides a pathway to further study or professional practice. UNSW is a government university located in Kensington, NSW, and is one of Australia's leading research institutions.

What you'll study

Students in the Graduate Diploma in City Planning explore the theoretical and practical aspects of urban development. The curriculum typically covers topics such as urban design, planning law, environmental assessment, and community participation. Graduates learn to analyse complex urban issues, develop planning strategies, and communicate effectively with stakeholders. While specific subjects are set by the university, the focus is on creating liveable, sustainable cities that balance economic, social, and environmental needs. This qualification prepares you for roles in urban planning, policy development, and project management within the public and private sectors.

Duration and study mode

The Graduate Diploma in City Planning is a 1-year program, with a duration of 52 weeks as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification — no dual or combined awards are offered. Full-time study is expected, though part-time options may be available for domestic students (international students must maintain full-time enrolment per visa conditions). The program is delivered on-campus at UNSW's Kensington campus.

Fees (indicative – set by The University of New South Wales (UNSW))

The indicative tuition fee for the Graduate Diploma in City Planning is A$46,500. Non-tuition fees (e.g., student services, materials) are approximately A$1,000, bringing the estimated total to A$47,500. Please note: These fees are indicative, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, and are subject to change. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge are not included. For the most current fee information, always refer to the provider's website at www.unsw.edu.au.

Entry requirements (general guidance)

International applicants typically need an IELTS score of 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent), along with a recognised bachelor's degree in a related field (e.g., architecture, geography, urban studies). Some students may enter via a Graduate Certificate or with relevant work experience. Foundation or pathway programs may be available if you do not meet direct entry requirements — check with UNSW for options. Meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as places are competitive. Always confirm specific prerequisites with the provider before applying.

Work component

No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, students may pursue voluntary internships or part-time work on a student visa (up to 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks) to gain practical experience.

Delivery locations

This course is delivered at The University of New South Wales – Kensington, NSW. Kensington is a vibrant suburb in Sydney's eastern suburbs, close to the city centre and renowned for its cultural diversity and student atmosphere. Sydney is home to over 150 CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student population. Public transport connects the campus via light rail and buses. Living costs in Sydney are among Australia's highest, with indicative weekly expenses around A$600–A$900 for rent, groceries, and transport.

Is Sydney right for you?

Sydney offers world-class education, stunning beaches, and a multicultural environment. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers nationally, you'll find unmatched course variety. Consider your lifestyle preferences, budget, and career goals. Sydney's strong job market in construction, planning, and government makes it ideal for city planning graduates. However, cost of living is significant — budget carefully. Use HeadStart Academy to compare courses across Australia and find the right fit.

Student visa

International students enrolling in this Graduate Diploma need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, financial capacity to cover tuition and living costs (at least A$29,710 per year for living expenses plus airfares and dependents), and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). Student work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (conditions apply). All CRICOS-registered courses are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring your rights as a consumer. For visa advice, consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs.

How to apply

Follow these three steps to apply for the Graduate Diploma in City Planning at UNSW:

1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level (Graduate Diploma), field (Urban Design and Regional Planning), and location (Sydney). Confirm UNSW (CRICOS 00098G) is registered.

2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – Visit UNSW's website, check entry requirements and English test scores, and submit your application before the deadline. Provide academic transcripts and a personal statement if needed.

3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa – Once accepted, UNSW issues a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) via the Department of Home Affairs. Arrange OSHC and demonstrate financial capacity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Explore more Graduate Diploma courses in NSW or contact UNSW directly for personalised advice.

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Source-backed course facts

Graduate Diploma in 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.

CRICOS register extract

Course
Graduate Diploma in City Planning
CRICOS course code
088356M
Provider
The University of New South Wales (UNSW) (00098G)
Course level
Graduate Diploma
Field of education
04 - Architecture and Building
Duration
52 weeks
Tuition (indicative)
A$46,500
Estimated total (indicative)
A$47,500
Delivery locations
Kensington
Work component
No

This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.

Important notes for international students

  • Tuition and living-cost figures on this site are indicative only — confirm current fees with the provider before you accept an offer.
  • HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent and does not provide immigration advice. For Student visa (Subclass 500) rules, OSHC and financial capacity, verify with the Department of Home Affairs or a registered MARA agent.
  • Only CRICOS-registered providers may enrol overseas students. Always check the CRICOS course and provider codes on your offer and Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).

Related pages

Frequently Asked Questions

The indicative tuition fee is A$46,500, with non-tuition fees around A$1,000, totalling approximately A$47,500. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Additional costs include OSHC, living expenses, and the visa application charge. Confirm current fees directly with UNSW.
The course duration is 1 year (52 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. It is a full-time program, and international students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with visa conditions.
Applicants typically need an IELTS score of 5.5-6.0 overall and a recognised bachelor's degree in a related field (e.g., architecture, geography, urban studies). Meeting these minimums does not guarantee admission — check with UNSW for specific prerequisites and alternative pathways.
This course is delivered at UNSW's Kensington campus in Sydney, NSW. Kensington is a well-connected suburb with light rail and bus access to the city centre. Sydney boasts a high concentration of CRICOS-registered providers and a thriving international student community.
CRICOS lists estimated total fees of A$47,500 for Graduate Diploma in City Planning (tuition A$46,500). Figures are indicative as at the April 2026 register snapshot — confirm current fees with The University of New South Wales (UNSW) before applying.
The CRICOS course code is 088356M, offered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) (provider code 00098G). Use these codes when checking your offer and CoE.