How to become
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- applying directly
University
You can do a degree accredited by The Royal Town Planning Institute before applying for a job as an assistant.
Subjects include:
- planning, environment and development
- city and regional planning
- urban planning and property development
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
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College
You can take a college course to learn some of the skills needed for the job, which may help when applying for a trainee position.
Courses include:
- construction and the built environment
- civil engineering for technicians
- T Level in Design, Surveying and Planning for Construction
Entry requirements
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T Level
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Apprenticeship
You can apply for a place on a Town Planning Assistant Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship.
This typically takes around 2 years to complete and is a mix of on-the-job training and off-site study.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
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Direct Application
You can apply directly for a trainee position. You'll need a minimum of GCSEs in maths, English and ICT, along with A levels or equivalent in subjects like:
- geography
- environmental studies
- business studies
- economics
You may have an advantage if you have experience in:
- administration
- computer-aided design (CAD)
- construction
- surveying
Some employers may ask for a degree qualification.
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Professional and industry bodies
You could join the 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.