Designed for graduates with previous limited knowledge in this field, this master's course will provide you with knowledge of various aspects of town and regional planning.
Introduction
There are three pathways available for the programme so you can choose which area you’d like to specialise in; whether it be spatial planning, urban design or spatial modelling.
Regardless of which pathway you choose, you’ll be able to develop specialised knowledge of the field through a range of optional modules that cover a wide range of subjects relevant to town and regional planning.
You will build the knowledge and skills which you will need as a town and regional planning professional; not only the practical skills prized by employers in the industry but also the values and ethical considerations needed for sustainable and conscientious planning.
Who is this course for?
This programme is best suited for you if you plan to practise outside of the UK as it isn’t accredited by the Royal Town Planning Institution. If you’re looking for an accredited course, take a look at our Town and Regional Planning MCD.
What you'll learn
A critical appreciation of challenges facing modern society in terms of the need to reconcile economic growth and development with protecting and conserving the environment
An understanding of the diversity of planned interventions at a variety of spatial scales, which are designed to produce effective and implementable solutions to policy dilemmas
A range of analytical skills and techniques that are designed to develop appropriate and implementable solutions to a range of complex problems
You’ll get the opportunity to apply their knowledge, skills and understanding to the achievement of feasible solutions to real-life problems
The ability to appreciate the need to adopt strong professional values and ethics, recognise the diversity of interests that planning serves
You’ll also have an opportunity to begin to explore ideas, perspectives and debates in one specialised area of planning.
Accreditation
This programme is not accredited – if you are looking for a programme accredited by the Royal Town Planning Institution see Town and Regional Planning MCD.
Course content
Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.
Spatial planning
Compulsory modules
Theory, Power and Ethics (ENVS432)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
The focus of this module is on the institutional perspective on planning across different spatial scales and the different strands of theories that are relevant to the understanding of the role and purposes of planning.
Trends, Outcomes and Impacts (ENVS469)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
The modern planner must be conversant with statistics and mapping. To achieve this, this module aims to provide students with a coherent guide to the variety of methods and techniques employed in analysing contemporary spatial planning issues. It provides a discussion of statistical analysis, and the ability to produce detailed mapping. In doing so, the aim is to furnish you with the critical thinking skills to understand the benefits of statistics in the work of a planner, and to use this to good effect. The module is delivered through lectures and a series of practical workshops and assessed through technical exercise and a group project report.
Making Plans (ENVS427)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
This module provides a knowledge base of spatial planning disciplines by understanding key historical evolution of plan-making approaches, being conversant with methods and techniques used in the preparation and implementation of spatial plans and policies, and last but not least, demonstrating critical thinking capacities of reviewing a contemporary plan-making practice through a close theory-practice axis.
Dissertation MCD/MA/MSc Planning (ENVS491)
Credits: 60 /
Semester: summer
The module supports students in the development, researching and execution of an independent piece of research under the supervision of an academic member of staff.
Spatial Planning and Design Project (ENVS467)
Credits: 30 /
Semester: semester 2
The module provides an opportunity for students to apply knowledge gained in other aspects of their studies to a plan-making exercise. In this project-based module, students will work with a client on the development of a strategy for the improvement of a selected area. Student will work in groups on a project brief that will allow them to address issues that are both relevant for the local client and reflect relevant planning debates (e.g. on urban sustainability, climate change, etc.)
Optional modules
Making Places (ENVS439)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
The focus of this module is on introducing and exploring the processes and issues involved in the making and remaking of urban places. It will provide the skills and techniques to analyse and understand place quality and characteristics from different viewpoints, and to understand the transition from design to its implementation. The module will be based on assessments that encourage students to critically read a ‘real-world’ project both as a set of drawings and as an as-built scheme, and used to discuss viability/development economics.
Environmental Assessment of Policies, Plans, Programmes and Projects (ENVS529)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
Environmental Assessment is applied throughout the world in the preparation of policies, plans, programmes and projects several 10s of 1,000s of times each year. Whilst specific requirements differ between different countries, underlying conceptual and procedural ideas are similar in all contexts. This module introduces the environmental assessment process and applied methods and techniques as practiced both, nationally and internationally.
Spatial Planning Challenges (ENVS411)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
This module provides students with an understanding of the conflicts facing planners in trying to deliver sustainable development. It introduces students to the range of social, economic and environmental issues that face contemporary society. It outlines the role of spatial planning in managing development pressures while protecting the built and natural environment, and it explores different planning responses to address and reconcile these competing interests.
Applied Geographic Information Science (ENVS609)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
This module introduces how the tools of GIS can be used to create digital representations of the world and, through a framework of Geographic Information Science, reviews the potential problems and pitfalls of doing so. The module is delivered through lectures supplemented by practical labs that develop familiarity and skills in the application of GIS.
Environmental Planning and Management Project (ENVS560)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
This is a client-led module, which is based upon the execution of a mini-project that is carried out in groups by students. The project allows the students to apply their knowledge of Environmental Assessment and Management (EAM) in practice and gain experience of being engaged with a real life client. This module essentially delivers authentic assessment. The project experience offered within the module helps in developing skills of analysis, interpretation and policy prescription within the context of EAM. They are well grounded in the Department’s own research activities and draw upon established links with a number of local authorities and other public bodies.
Green Infrastructure Planning (ENVS545)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
Green Infrastructure planning is essential in supporting the UN Sustainable Development Goals, especially in the global context of climate change. The module introduces the field of Green Infrastructure and green space planning by addressing its principles, values, utility, and its multiscale implementation within environmental planning from theoretical and practical perspectives through a series of lectures and guest talks. Students will understand the interconnection between greening and human beings with support from a series of qualitative and quantitative methods and learn to critically assess what methods are appropriate for the evaluation GI development. Students will undertake tasks that mirror real-world professional practices, which helps them to learn and practically use the skills they may require to evaluate the role and multiple benefits of Green Infrastructure in real-world planning scenarios. Assessment is through an essay and a project poster.
Implementing and Managing Change (ENVS459)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
How do planners implement and manage change? This module provides you with an understanding of the statutory and practical basis of planning and the challenges and issues planners face in mediating, regulating and managing change. It provides an understanding of the planner as a professional practitioner and the responsibilities this entails. It also equips students with the skills and practices necessary to implement and manage change in an effective manner and with attention to the variety of stakeholders involved. The module is delivered through interactive lectures and guest talks. It is assessed through a report reflecting on the development process and a theory-focused essay.
Spatial Planning and Design Project (ENVS467)
Credits: 30 /
Semester: semester 2
The module provides an opportunity for students to apply knowledge gained in other aspects of their studies to a plan-making exercise. In this project-based module, students will work with a client on the development of a strategy for the improvement of a selected area. Student will work in groups on a project brief that will allow them to address issues that are both relevant for the local client and reflect relevant planning debates (e.g. on urban sustainability, climate change, etc.)
Any optional modules listed above are illustrative only and may vary from year to year. Modules may be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved and staff availability. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed.
Urban design
Compulsory modules
Theory, Power and Ethics (ENVS432)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
The focus of this module is on the institutional perspective on planning across different spatial scales and the different strands of theories that are relevant to the understanding of the role and purposes of planning.
Urban Design: Principles and Practice (ENVS420)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
This is a seminar-based module, which aims at promoting an understanding of the forces that shape the built environment and the role played by design professionals. It will help you as future designers to understand that the city is a complex and dynamic system. It will also stimulate your active thinking and positive responses to various phenomena. The module will be delivered through illustrated lectures, debates, site visits, tutorials and a design day (design charrette). Topics are based around current challenges for urbanism such as building tall, developing appropriate and effective design guidance, and designing for communities in the light of financial viability and climate change. You will be introduced to key theories and design skills and have the opportunity to engage first hand with professionals from the field of planning and urban design. Assessment for this module is comprised of an essay, a case study presentation and the design day output.
Urban Design Studio (ENVS463)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
This is a studio- and client-based module which usually supports a local community group or a Community Interest Company within the Liverpool area. It is delivered through formal introductions to project and work stages by means of traditional lectures, as well as guided site visits, weekly design tutorials and skills sessions on drawing and modelling. You will develop a self-paced work ethic, interpret a design brief and propose a sustainable design solution following a rigorous, process-lead design through group discussions and by responding to critical feedback. Further work usually consists of an area appraisal and contextual studies, a design framework or strategy and a site design. At the end of this module, you will be able to formulate a design vision, objectives and a strategy, present an urban design proposal graphically and verbally and demonstrate planning and design of development plots, buildings and open spaces.
Dissertation MCD/MA/MSc Planning (ENVS491)
Credits: 60 /
Semester: summer
The module supports students in the development, researching and execution of an independent piece of research under the supervision of an academic member of staff.
Spatial Planning and Design Project (ENVS467)
Credits: 30 /
Semester: semester 2
The module provides an opportunity for students to apply knowledge gained in other aspects of their studies to a plan-making exercise. In this project-based module, students will work with a client on the development of a strategy for the improvement of a selected area. Student will work in groups on a project brief that will allow them to address issues that are both relevant for the local client and reflect relevant planning debates (e.g. on urban sustainability, climate change, etc.)
Optional modules
Environmental Assessment of Policies, Plans, Programmes and Projects (ENVS529)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
Environmental Assessment is applied throughout the world in the preparation of policies, plans, programmes and projects several 10s of 1,000s of times each year. Whilst specific requirements differ between different countries, underlying conceptual and procedural ideas are similar in all contexts. This module introduces the environmental assessment process and applied methods and techniques as practiced both, nationally and internationally.
Spatial Planning Challenges (ENVS411)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
This module provides students with an understanding of the conflicts facing planners in trying to deliver sustainable development. It introduces students to the range of social, economic and environmental issues that face contemporary society. It outlines the role of spatial planning in managing development pressures while protecting the built and natural environment, and it explores different planning responses to address and reconcile these competing interests.
Trends, Outcomes and Impacts (ENVS469)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
The modern planner must be conversant with statistics and mapping. To achieve this, this module aims to provide students with a coherent guide to the variety of methods and techniques employed in analysing contemporary spatial planning issues. It provides a discussion of statistical analysis, and the ability to produce detailed mapping. In doing so, the aim is to furnish you with the critical thinking skills to understand the benefits of statistics in the work of a planner, and to use this to good effect. The module is delivered through lectures and a series of practical workshops and assessed through technical exercise and a group project report.
Environmental Planning and Management Project (ENVS560)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
This is a client-led module, which is based upon the execution of a mini-project that is carried out in groups by students. The project allows the students to apply their knowledge of Environmental Assessment and Management (EAM) in practice and gain experience of being engaged with a real life client. This module essentially delivers authentic assessment. The project experience offered within the module helps in developing skills of analysis, interpretation and policy prescription within the context of EAM. They are well grounded in the Department’s own research activities and draw upon established links with a number of local authorities and other public bodies.
Green Infrastructure Planning (ENVS545)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
Green Infrastructure planning is essential in supporting the UN Sustainable Development Goals, especially in the global context of climate change. The module introduces the field of Green Infrastructure and green space planning by addressing its principles, values, utility, and its multiscale implementation within environmental planning from theoretical and practical perspectives through a series of lectures and guest talks. Students will understand the interconnection between greening and human beings with support from a series of qualitative and quantitative methods and learn to critically assess what methods are appropriate for the evaluation GI development. Students will undertake tasks that mirror real-world professional practices, which helps them to learn and practically use the skills they may require to evaluate the role and multiple benefits of Green Infrastructure in real-world planning scenarios. Assessment is through an essay and a project poster.
Implementing and Managing Change (ENVS459)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
How do planners implement and manage change? This module provides you with an understanding of the statutory and practical basis of planning and the challenges and issues planners face in mediating, regulating and managing change. It provides an understanding of the planner as a professional practitioner and the responsibilities this entails. It also equips students with the skills and practices necessary to implement and manage change in an effective manner and with attention to the variety of stakeholders involved. The module is delivered through interactive lectures and guest talks. It is assessed through a report reflecting on the development process and a theory-focused essay.
Any optional modules listed above are illustrative only and may vary from year to year. Modules may be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved and staff availability. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed.
How you'll learn
You’ll learn through a combination of teaching, learning and assessment methods in line with the varied nature of the programme.
You’ll attend lectures, seminars and tutorials and take part in practical sessions, such as project work and field visits. You are encouraged to take a proactive approach to their learning.
You will plan and organise your studies both on an individual basis and working in groups, take an active role in seminars, class discussions, library and IT studies and make practice contacts and site visits associated with coursework submissions.
How you're assessed
You’ll be assessed through a combination of coursework, such as essays, reports, seminar presentations and examinations. Essays, reports, seminars and discussion papers enable you to explore particular components of the course in-depth and present coherent arguments using a range of writing styles, suitable for different audiences.
Seminar presentations provide opportunities for you to develop and demonstrate your ability in presenting and defending your arguments. Group projects enable you to demonstrate, through verbal presentations, written reports or design work, your ability to work as part of a team to resolve large and complex problems. Examinations test knowledge, understanding and critical reflection on a range of materials covered in a module.
You will also take part in a final project based on a topic associated with your specialism. You’ll work independently to develop and demonstrate research skills and apply knowledge to a specific research problem. You’ll be specifically assessed on your initial presentation, your research outline, and your dissertation.
Liverpool Hallmarks
We have a distinctive approach to education, the Liverpool Curriculum Framework, which focuses on research-connected teaching, active learning, and authentic assessment to ensure our students graduate as digitally fluent and confident global citizens.
Course options
Studying with us means you can tailor your degree to suit you. Here's what is available on this course.
The Department of Geography and Planning is home to the world’s first planning school. We are a centre of excellence for innovative and influential research and scholarship and are a leading provider of high-quality professional education. We have excellent academic staff who are actively engaged with research and professional practice. This is reflected in the fact we edit two international journals: Town Planning Review and Journal of Environmental Assessment Policy and Management.
Many students have found that the programme enables them to specialise in areas of planning where there is a steady demand for graduates, as well as providing them with a UK perspective on planning practice.
Fees and funding
Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.
Tuition fees
UK fees (applies to Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland)
Full-time place, per year
£12,500
Part-time place, per year
£6,250
International fees
Full-time place, per year
£24,100
Part-time place, per year
£12,050
Fees stated are for the 2025-26 academic year.
Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching and assessment, operating facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support.
If you're a UK national, or have settled status in the UK, you may be eligible to apply for a Postgraduate Loan worth up to £12,167 to help with course fees and living costs. Learn more about fees and funding.
Additional costs
We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This could include buying a laptop, books, or stationery.
We accept a 2:2 honours degree from a UK university, or an equivalent academic qualification from a similar non-UK institution.
This degree can be in any subject discipline.
Non-graduates with very extensive professional experience and/or other prior qualifications may also be considered.
International qualifications
If you hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent, but don’t meet our entry requirements, you could be eligible for a Pre-Master’s course. This is offered on campus at the University of Liverpool International College, in partnership with Kaplan International Pathways. It’s a specialist preparation course for postgraduate study, and when you pass the Pre-Master’s at the required level with good attendance, you’re guaranteed entry to a University of Liverpool master’s degree.
International applicants who do not meet the minimum required standard of English language can complete one of our Pre-Sessional English courses to achieve the required level.
English language qualification
Requirements
IELTS
6.5 overall, with no component below 6.0
TOEFL iBT
88 overall, with minimum scores of listening 19, writing 19, reading 19 and speaking 20. TOEFL Home Edition not accepted.
Duolingo English Test
120 overall, with no component below 105
Pearson PTE Academic
61 overall, with no component below 59
LanguageCert Academic
70 overall, with no skill below 65
PSI Skills for English
B2 Pass with Merit in all bands
INDIA Standard XII
National Curriculum (CBSE/ISC) - 75% and above in English. Accepted State Boards - 80% and above in English.
WAEC
C6 or above
PRE-SESSIONAL ENGLISH
Do you need to complete a Pre-Sessional English course to meet the English language requirements for this course?
The length of Pre-Sessional English course you’ll need to take depends on your current level of English language ability.
Liverpool bursts with diversity and creativity which makes it ideal for you to undertake your postgraduate studies and access various opportunities for you and your family.
To fully immerse yourself in the university experience living in halls will keep you close to campus where you can always meet new people. Find your home away from home.
Discover what expenses are covered by the cost of your tuition fees and other finance-related information you may need regarding your studies at Liverpool.
Contact us
Have a question about this course or studying with us? Our dedicated enquiries team can help.
