Education

Welcome to Planning at Queen’s University Belfast

We offer four degree programmes (three at postgraduate level) and are recognised as one of the leading Planning schools within the UK and Ireland.  In terms of student satisfaction we are ranked fifth in The Times Good University Guide 2009.  The most recent University Subject Review noted that Planning provides “an excellent learning environment for its students”.  Our graduates are also highly sought after in the workplace.

The undergraduate degree (BSc Environmental Planning) is a three-year programme which provides a strong multidisciplinary training. It is accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors and, if followed by one-year of postgraduate study in Planning, is accredited by the Royal Town Planning Institute.  The degree is therefore highly relevant to those wishing to pursue a career in Planning and we pride ourselves in possessing strong links with professional bodies and local practitioners.   In addition the BSc Environmental Planning represents a versatile first degree with the skills acquired equally suited to other career options. 

Our one-year MSc Spatial Regeneration and MSc Urban and Rural Design are popular postgraduate choices for graduates from the BSc Environmental Planning.  The MSc Environmental Planning is more commonly taken by students possessing a non-Planning first degree.  All of our MSc degrees are accredited by the Royal Town Planning Institute and Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors. 

The learning experience provided by Planning at QUB is characterised by variety.  We combine the traditional teaching environment of lectures and seminars with hands-on and practical activities including local and European field studies, ‘real-life’ planning projects, and practitioner involvement.  We have dedicated studio space which facilitates groupwork, creative thinking and practice-based projects.

We operate both an adviser of studies and personal tutor system which enables us to offer academic, pastoral, personal development and career support and guidance.  A student run Planning Society provides a lively social environment.

Those interested in studying Planning at QUB are welcome to visit and meet staff during one of the University’s Open Days, Applicant Days or at another arranged time.

Below are some quotes from current and recent students –

“The course itself is very interesting and the subject has many different aspects to it that are all enjoyable”
(National Student Survey).

 “I thoroughly enjoyed the Erasmus opportunity”
(National Student Survey).

“I like that there is coursework on my course.  It is not all exams”
(First and Second Year Experience Survey).

“Elms village [Halls of Residence] is a brilliant place to live. … It is friendly, I enjoy the craic”
(First and Second Year Experience Survey).

“Lectures cover topics which are of relevance.  There are very good lecturers in our Department who are extremely helpful” (National Students Survey).

For more information pleas contact the Director of Education.