Masters in Spatial Planning and Development (full and part-time)
This Masters programme prepares you for a career in urban planning and development in both the private and public sector.
At a glance
- Accredited by the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) and the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS)
- Undertake an in-depth European field visit
- Shape and consider development proposals, plans and policies
- Undertake community consultations and present reports to clients and decision makers
- Focus on planning as it engages with economic and property development processes
- Level
- Masters
- Subject area(s)
- Real Estate & Planning
- Award
- MSc
- Duration
- 12 months full-time, 24 months part-time
- Attendance
- Full-time , Part-time
- Programme Director
-
Dr Christopher Maidment
Overview
This Masters programme will prepare you for a career in urban planning and development. You will be required to shape and consider development proposals and devise or interpret plans and policies. Also, negotiate and regulate development schemes, undertake community consultations, develop evidence and present reports to clients and decision-makers.
Our academic strengths lie in planning and development and real estate markets and investment. This programme will develop your specialist knowledge and skills in planning and development. The MSc Spatial Planning and Development is accredited by the Royal Town Planning Institute and the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors.
The programme focuses on planning as it engages with economic and property development processes at all levels. From the site, the neighbourhood, to local, national and international. You will be able to concentrate on particular aspects of development planning to suit your interests and career aspirations. For example, this may include strategic, economic, environment, regeneration or countryside. You will have the opportunity to undertake in-depth study, within a framework that emphasises integration. You well also apply your learning to another country through the European field study.
The MSc Spatial Planning and Development course is recognised in the UK and more widely, to be one of the foremost planning programmes. You will develop spatial planning competencies, become market-aware planners and be prepared for the orchestration and negotiation of development schemes. The programme’s blend of analytical rigour and practicality has a strong appeal to employers in the private and public sectors. Many graduates of this programme, and its forerunners, have progressed to senior positions in the real estate and planning sector.
This programme is available on a full-time or part-time basis.
Real Estate & Planning
Our School is the largest in the UK for teaching and research in real estate and planning. Established in 1968 at the University of Reading, we are the only major UK real estate and planning centre to be located within a business school. Being part of the Henley Business School reflects our close and longstanding collaborative relationship with industry.
We have a worldwide reputation for excellence in both teaching and research and we are consistently highly ranked in all major league tables. We undertake internationally recognised, leading edge research into real estate, planning and land. We offer a comprehensive range of courses, all of which are accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). Our planning courses are also fully accredited by the Royal Town Planning Institute.
Our programmes are held in high regard by leading employers. Many of whom come to us each year to recruit our graduates. We are proud of our outstanding employment record. More than 95% of our students enter graduate-level jobs within 6-months of leaving us.
Compulsory Modules
- Cities, Regions and Strategic Governance - 20 credits
- Development Planning Projects - 30 credits
- Planning Theory, Politics and Practice - 20 credits
- Real Estate Economics - 20 credits
- Real Estate Development and Planning Law - 20 credits
- Spatial Planning Dissertation - 30 credits
- Urban Design and Sustainability - 20 credits
Plus elective modules from a range that may include: Comparative International Planning Studies, Countryside Planning and Policy, Sustainability and Real Estate, Regeneration, Land, Property Rights and Housing Markets and Policy
Compulsory Modules
| Optional modules | Credits |
|---|---|
Urban Design and Sustainability (REMP16)This module aims toprovide students with an understanding of the nature, role and contemporary relevance of sustainable urban design and development. It aims to promote awareness of, and sensitivity to urban design, and strategic and local planning issues with implications for natural resource management and the distribution of environmental assets.
Academic authors
Dr Richard Nunes
|
20 [10 ECTS credits] |
Real Estate Economics (REMFRE)This module aims to provide students with a solid foundation in real estate economics in order to provide insights into the application of economic principles and models in respect of property and land use. Both commercial and residential real estate markets will be considered, as well as the effects of public policy on these markets.
Academic authors
Dr Mark Dobson
|
20 [10 ECTS credits] |
Planning Theory, Politics and Practice (REMP02)This module aims to develop the student’s understanding of the philosophical ideas and theoretical debates that influence planning intervention. It explores how theory can be used to analyse issues and problems relevant to planning practice. The module provides a historic overview of town planning and examines the rationales for, and against, intervention and the social, cultural, political and economic factors that underpin them.
Academic authors
Professor Gavin Parker
|
20 [10 ECTS credits] |
Real Estate Development and Planning Law (REMP30)This module will enable students to enhance their conceptual understanding of key elements of the real estate development process, fundamentals of planning law, as well as their practical understanding of the principles and practice of real estate development viability assessment. Students will develop their knowledge of the complex nature of real estate development, and how this complexity is influenced, managed and modelled by the different individuals, organisations and institutions involved, thereby resulting in diverse development outcomes. Academic authors
Dr Edward Shepherd
|
20 [10 ECTS credits] |
Cities, Regions and Strategic Governance (REMP32)This module prepares students for planning and development leadership roles. During this module, students will critically analyze the ways in which strategic planning in the UK has developed. This will include studying the concepts upon which it has been based, and the ways in which strategies have been prepared and restructured in relation to their operating environment. Students will gain understanding of the conceptual and practical challenges faced in applying the principles of strategic planning. The module will conclude by considering possible futures for strategic planning. Academic authors
Professor Kathy Pain
|
20 [10 ECTS credits] |
Development Planning Projects (REMP31)This module provides a practical yet reflective set of skills based projects of varying lengths and foci. The module integrates a range of knowledge and skills important for practicing planners and puts them into practice through group study, reports, presentations and role-play. Some of the project work takes place around field visits, whilst other tasks focus on planning and development processes (e.g. deliberating over planning proposals, visioning, contesting proposals, policy formulation, site planning and/or project funding). The module integrates practical skills with concepts and creative thinking abilities. Academic authors
Dr Christopher Maidment
|
30 [15 ECTS credits] |
Spatial Planning Dissertation (REMDISS30)The module aims to build a solid foundation in the economics of property to provide an insight into the application of economic principles and models to property and land use. |
30 [15 ECTS credits] |
Elective Modules
| Optional modules | Credits |
|---|---|
Comparative International Planning Studies (REMP19)This module aims to compare planning practices and systems worldwide and draw lessons from such comparisons. Understanding the different contexts, techniques and impacts of planning deepens awareness of differences in planning cultures. Students will gain an appreciation of the ways in which planning is accomplished and the advantages and problems associated with each system set in its political, economic and social context.
Academic authors
Professor Angelique Chettiparamb
|
20 [10 ECTS credits] |
Sustainability and Real Estate (REMF55)This module focuses on the development of a conceptual understanding of sustainability and its applications in real estate. The focus is on the adoption of sustainability in the property industry throughout real estate life cycles, including how the concept is relevant and manifests itself at various life cycle stages, i.e. development, design, construction, operation, refurbishment and retrofitting. The module also focuses on drivers and barriers for the adoption of sustainable practices in the property industry, which includes the business case for sustainability. Academic authors
Dr Jorn van de Wetering
|
20 [10 ECTS credits] |
Regeneration (REMP08)This module provides both a sophisticated theoretical understanding and overview of key challenges and trends in the delivery of urban regeneration and planning. It focusses on the relationship between the economic, social and political forces shaping urban regeneration policy and practice. Students will be expected to engage with relevant literatures and theoretical concepts in a critical way. A key focus of the module is to allow students to explore the assumptions, models, policies and practices of urban regeneration. Academic authors
Dr Emma Street
|
20 [10 ECTS credits] |
Countryside Planning and Policy (REMP14)This module aims to examine current countryside issues and policies, with an emphasis on planning in England and Wales. The context for the module is the changing economic and social drivers in the countryside. The module links with other modules in enabling students to understand the UK planning system but placing standard institutional arrangements and structures in a rural context. Academic authors
Professor Gavin Parker
|
20 [10 ECTS credits] |
Heritage and Development (REMF59)Historic buildings and sites are a major part of the built environment. Many will be hundreds of years old, but there are also more modern buildings considered as heritage. The construction industry’s work is evenly split between new-build and work to existing buildings, some of which will have some statutory protection, such as being listed. This module introduces students to concepts and practices in conservation of the historic environment, both in the UK and internationally, and explains the roles of the actors involved. The underlying philosophies of conservation, their history and how heritage is managed through legal frameworks and policy form an important component. The module also considers matters relating to real estate processes and the shaping of both urban and rural environments. In so doing it covers aspects of architectural and landscape history, and practical building conservation. Examples and case studies are used throughout. Academic authors
Henry Russell
|
20 [10 ECTS credits] |
The module or course content descriptions set out on this page are correct for those being taught in the current academic year. Modules or course content marked as optional are indicative and may be subject to change.
Our Real Estate & Planning postgraduate programmes are designed and delivered by internationally-renowned experts, with a wealth of academic and professional experience. All of our programmes are regularly updated to maintain their relevance in a rapidly changing industry.
Our programmes adhere to the highest academic and professional standards, with lectures given by academic members of staff and visiting speakers from senior positions in relevant professions. They are well supported by leading industry organisations who provide our students with valuable professional insight and feedback.
All our Masters programmes feature a mix of core and optional modules, allowing you to tailor your degree towards your individual interests and career ambitions. Teaching methods will vary depending on your chosen programme; they include lectures, workshops, tutorials, individual and group assignments, case studies and site visits. All our full-time postgraduate programmes include a residential study tour.
Our research is internationally renowned as academically rigorous and policy relevant. It has a major influence on our programmes and is fully integrated into our teaching. As a postgraduate student you will have access to this cutting-edge research, a vital resource that will keep you at the forefront of the latest thinking.
We aim to create a stimulating academic environment; you will be encouraged to develop individual interests and general skills as a basis for a career in the property industry, a related field or for further study.
2021 entry
| Full-time | Part-time |
|---|---|
| £9,900 | £5,450 per year |
Deposit refunds
Full deposit refunds are now available to offer-holders who are unable to travel to the UK as a result of a travel ban or immigration restrictions, either in their country of origin or by the UK government.
UK/Home Postgraduate Loans
Loans of up to £11,222 are available to eligible students studying for postgraduate Masters courses from the 2021-22 Academic year. In general, students need to be domiciled in England.
You can apply for a loan through the UK Government website. You can read more about the scheme on the Student Loans Company website or on these two UK Government sites: Introduction of loans for postgraduate students and Government response to the Consultation on Support for Postgraduate Study.
Current scholarships
| Entry requirement | Criteria |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate degree | Minimum 2:1 or the equivalent from an Internationally recognised university |
| Degree discipline | Any discipline |
English Language Requirements
Studying in a second language can be challenging. If your English language ability is below the minimum requirement, we may ask for evidence of proficiency. Alternatively, we may ask you to attend an English language course before you begin your studies with us.
| Requirement | Criteria |
|---|---|
| IELTS | 6.5 with no component below 6.0 in any sub-skills |
| IELTS with pre-sessional English | 6.5 with no component below 5.5 in each of the four sub-skills |
For information on other English language qualifications, please visit our English requirement equivalent page.
If you require specific advice on your qualification please contact admissions directly by e-mail or telephone on +44 118-378-5289.
Pre-sessional English language programme
UK visa requirements
If you are not a national of the European Union (EU), you may need to obtain a UK visa. This visa will allow to live and study in the UK. See the UK Border Agency website. Contact the University's International Office with any questions: intoff@reading.ac.uk.
New Graduate Route
From the summer of 2021, the UK's new Graduate Route post-study work visa allows you to apply to stay in the UK for up to two years after you graduate, with the opportunity to undertake skilled work. Visit the University website for the latest information.
How can Henley Careers work with you?
We have an award-winning careers team that will support you through your postgraduate studies and four years after graduation.
Here is how Henley Careers can help you:
- Careers Consultant appointments: Our Careers Consultant are here to help and support you with any careers related concern that you might have. Whether it’s CV advice, practicing for an interview, providing feedback if applications aren't successful or support planning your career goals. We are here to help empower you to progress in your career.
- Events: Henley Careers organise numerous events aimed to help you build your confidence, develop the skills employers are looking for. Additionally, network with employers and expand your industry knowledge.
- Alumni support: You can continue to book one-to-one appointments with your Careers Consultant and use our online resources. For up to four years after graduating we’re here to help and support in your career.
- Career Smart: Get a head start in securing a graduate job by taking part in our online course, Career Smart. You can expect to learn about the graduate recruitment cycle in the UK. As well as where to look and how to start applying to jobs, and the different roles available to you.
For more information please see our Careers page.
Continuing your career
With the MSc Spatial Planning and Development programme you'll benefit from its strong connections to industry and across the profession generally. Many successful graduates have been highly sought after by both private and public sector employers, including planning consultancies, development companies, local planning authorities and large multidisciplinary property firms.
The University has an excellent reputation with the planning profession in both the private and public sectors. Our postgraduates tend to be sought after by employers and many find employment before graduating.
Our alumni association, The Reading Real Estate Foundation (RREF), organise career development and recruitment events for real estate students throughout the year. These include an evening lectures series with key industry speakers and an annual Careers Fair. To support your career development and interpersonal skills, you will also be assigned an industry mentor through the RREF mentoring scheme. Our innovative mentoring programme pairs your with professionals in the industry, both in the UK and overseas.
We have a professional Careers Development Advisor, Jane Batchelor, who helps our students with every aspect of the career development process, including identifying work placement, internships and permanent career opportunities.
Typical examples of recent employment found by our graduates are with planning consultancies such as: Nathaniel Lichfield Associates, Terence O'Rourke Partnership, RPS, DTZPieda. The bigger surveying firms with planning and development departments also recruit our students, for example: Drivers Jonas, Gerald Eve, GVA Grimley.
In the public sector there are varied options at the local, regional and national levels: government offices and departments, regional agencies and local planning authorities. The range and diversity of jobs and careers offered under the mantle of 'planning' is really very wide and stimulating. We will be happy to advise you in finding work experience and talk to you about your employment options during your time with us.
The MSc Spatial Planning and Development is accredited by the RICS and the RTPI.
Apply for 2021 entry now
Apply online now through the University of Reading’s online application service.
The online application service allows you to complete your application information, attach electronic copies of your academic transcripts, certificates and other supporting information. It also provides a facility for an email request to be sent to your referees. This enables the referees to send your supporting references directly to us.
When to apply
We operate a rolling admissions system and it is recommended that you apply early to secure your place. There is no specific deadline and applications will be considered until the programme is full. However, to allow us time to process your application we recommend that you apply by the following dates:
| UK/Home applicants | International applicants |
|---|---|
| 1 August | 1 June |
After you apply
You will receive a confirmation email when we receive your application form. Your application is then reviewed by a member of staff. If successful, you will receive a formal offer letter outlining any necessary entry criteria you will need to meet. You'll then be asked to confirm your acceptance of this offer.
If you require a Certificate of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) for your visa, details will be sent by email once all conditions of the offer have been met.
Throughout the admissions process we will keep you updated with key information via email. We also provide opportunities to interact with faculty and staff online.
Find us on Facebook and keep up-to-date with news and events at Henley or ask us a question. In addition, you can speak to a current student, our students are always happy to share their Henley experience.
Our students and alumni are always keen to share their Henley experience. Whether you are a prospective applicant or already applied to a Masters programme at Henley Business School. You can ask questions to a current student by clicking the “Chat to our students” button below.
When contacting one of our students, please introduce yourself and the Masters programme you have applied for.
Speak to a current student
Contact us
For more information, you may also contact the programme director, Dr Chris Maidment by email at c.s.maidment@henley.reading.ac.uk or by phone +44 (0) 118 378 6590.
If you have any questions, please contact us by email at postgraduate@henley.ac.uk or by phone on +44 (0)118 378 7593.
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