How to become Town planner
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
University
You can study for a degree or a postgraduate qualification accredited by The Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI).
Subjects include:
- planning, environment and development
- city and regional planning
- geography and planning
- urban planning and property development
You can do postgraduate qualification in planning if you have a degree in an unrelated subject.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
- a degree in any subject for a postgraduate course
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Apprenticeship
You could apply to do a Chartered Town Planner Level 7 Degree Apprenticeship.
This can take around 5 years to complete and is a mix of on-the-job training and study at university. Contact apprenticeship training providers for details.
Entry requirements
Most people following this route have:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a degree apprenticeship
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Work
You could start as a town planning assistant with an organisation and take further training while you work.
You'll need the backing of your employer and you'll combine practical experience with part-time or distance learning study towards an accredited planning qualification.
Volunteering
You'll find it useful to get as much work experience as possible. This will give you a better understanding of the career, and the contacts you make may help you to find paid work.
You can search for companies listed by The Royal Town Planning Institute or contact your local council to ask about opportunities.
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Professional and industry bodies
You could join The Royal Town Planning Institute for networking, events and professional development training opportunities.
Further information
You can find out more about careers in town planning from The Royal Town Planning Institute.