The Master of Urban Planning / Master of Urban Design (CRICOS course code 105519G) is a dual postgraduate degree offered by The University of Melbourne (UniMelb). This program combines the fields of urban planning and urban design, equipping students with the skills to shape sustainable, liveable cities. Delivered over 3 years (156 weeks) in English, this coursework-based master's degree is registered on the CRICOS register (provider CRICOS 00116K), ensuring international students can enrol with confidence. Whether you aim to work in government, private practice, or community development, this degree provides a comprehensive foundation in both strategic planning and design thinking. As a dual qualification, you graduate with two master's degrees – Master of Urban Planning and Master of Urban Design – enhancing your career prospects. The University of Melbourne is a Group of Eight institution consistently ranked among the world's top universities, located in Parkville, Victoria. In this guide, we break down the course fees, entry requirements, delivery locations, and student visa information to help you make an informed decision. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this program is one of the leading choices for students passionate about urban environments. HeadStart Academy is a free resource to help you navigate your study journey.
Master of Urban Planning / Master of Urban Design (CRICOS course code 105519G) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) over 3 years. This AQF Level 9 qualification is designed for students seeking advanced knowledge and professional skills in urban planning and urban design. The course is classified under Field of Education 040103 - Urban Design and Regional Planning, part of the Architecture and Building discipline. As a dual qualification, it allows graduates to address complex urban challenges from both a planning policy and a design perspective.
At AQF Level 9, students develop advanced theoretical and practical knowledge in urban planning and urban design. Typical learning outcomes include strategic planning, urban analysis, design studio work, policy development, and research methods. The field of Urban Design and Regional Planning covers topics such as land use planning, transport planning, environmental sustainability, community engagement, and urban morphology. Graduates gain skills to work in both public and private sectors, contributing to the creation of equitable and resilient cities.
The program runs for 3 years (156 weeks on the CRICOS register) and is delivered in English. It is a dual qualification, meaning you will receive two separate master's degrees upon completion: Master of Urban Planning and Master of Urban Design. This structure allows you to integrate both disciplines seamlessly. There is no mandatory work component included in the course, though students may seek internships independently.
Fees for international students are set by The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) and are subject to change. The indicative tuition fee for the full program is A$188,644, with non-tuition fees of A$150, making an estimated total of A$188,794. Please note that this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. For the most current fee information, visit the official University of Melbourne website.
International students typically need an IELTS score of 6.5-7.0 overall (with no band below 6.0-6.5) or equivalent English proficiency test results. Applicants should hold a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as architecture, planning, geography, environmental studies, or civil engineering. Some prior study in urban design or planning is advantageous. Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission, as places are competitive. Foundation or pathway options are not offered for this course; refer to The University of Melbourne's website for specific prerequisites and selection criteria.
According to the CRICOS register, this course has no mandatory work component. While the program does not include a formal internship or placement, students may choose to engage in voluntary work or part-time employment during their studies, subject to their student visa conditions.
The Master of Urban Planning / Master of Urban Design is delivered at The University of Melbourne's Parkville campus in Victoria. Parkville is a vibrant inner-city suburb with easy access to Melbourne's central business district via tram, train, and bus. Melbourne is home to over 200 CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student population. Indicative living costs in Melbourne include weekly rent A$200-400, groceries A$80-150, and public transport A$30-50. Studying in Victoria offers exposure to a dynamic urban environment, with numerous opportunities for networking and professional development.
International students must obtain a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course in Australia. This visa allows you to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during academic terms and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to current visa conditions). You will need to meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay, and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. The Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act protects your rights as an international student, including access to complaint and refund processes.
Applying for this course involves three key steps:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Confirm that The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) is CRICOS-registered (00116K) and that the course code 105519G is current.
2. **Apply directly to The University of Melbourne** – Prepare your academic transcripts, English language test results (e.g., IELTS), and any required documents. Check the application deadlines for international students on the university's website. Submit your application online or through an authorized agent.
3. **Receive your CoE and apply for your Student visa** – If accepted, you will receive a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Then apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; for visa advice, consult a registered MARA agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au.
Melbourne is consistently ranked as one of the world's most liveable cities, offering a rich study environment for urban planning and design students. The city's diverse architecture, extensive public transport network, and ongoing urban renewal projects provide real-world learning opportunities. With over 200 CRICOS-registered providers in Victoria, you'll join a large community of international students. The cost of living is manageable with careful budgeting, and part-time work options help support your studies. Studying at a Group of Eight university like UniMelb also opens doors to global career networks.
Ready to take the next step? Explore your study options at HeadStart Academy.
View the full The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) profile →
Master of Urban Planning / Master of Urban Design is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of Melbourne (UniMelb). 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.