Town and Regional Planning

This MSc in Town and Regional Planning equips you with advanced skills in spatial planning, land-use policy, and sustainable urban and rural development. You explore Ireland's planning legislation, development management processes, and strategic planning frameworks, alongside environmental assessment and housing policy. Practical work includes studio projects where you prepare development plans, assess planning applications, and engage with real planning authorities. You may undertake a professional placement with a local authority, planning consultancy, or An Coimisiún Pleanála. A typical week combines lectures, policy workshops, GIS mapping sessions, and collaborative studio critiques, with significant independent research feeding into a dissertation or major planning project.

Entry to this IPI-accredited postgraduate programme typically requires an NFQ Level 8 Honours Bachelor degree (minimum 2.2, preferably 2.1) in a cognate discipline such as architecture, geography, law, engineering, or environmental science. Applicants with a degree in an unrelated field may be considered if they can demonstrate relevant professional experience in planning or the built environment. There is no specific Leaving Certificate requirement at postgraduate level, though a strong undergraduate academic record is expected. Mature applicants with substantial professional experience in local government, construction, or environmental sectors may apply through a portfolio and interview route. International English-language requirements (IELTS or equivalent) apply to non-native speakers.

The outlook for planning graduates in Ireland is strong, driven by the national housing crisis, large-scale infrastructure delivery, and the implementation of the National Planning Framework. Local authorities and An Coimisiún Pleanála face ongoing recruitment pressure, and IPI accreditation makes you eligible for full membership of the Irish Planning Institute, enhancing your professional standing. Starting salaries in local authority grades typically range from approximately €40,000 to €50,000 gross per annum, with senior and principal planner roles commanding €65,000–€85,000 or more. Private-sector and specialist consultancy roles can offer competitive packages above these public-sector scales.