PgCert Planning and Development at Queen's University Belfast

Programme overview

The PgCert Planning and Development builds expertise in key aspects of planning theory, policy and practice, with a focus on professional planning skills. The 60 CATS can be completed full-time in one semester or accumulated flexibly over up to two years, and the qualification can be upgraded to the RTPI- and RICS-accredited MSc Planning and Development. 20 full-time and 20 part-time places are available.

Faculty: Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences | Department: School of Natural and Built Environment | Duration: 1 year full-time; 2 years part-time (60 CATS, completed in one semester full-time or accumulated over up to two years) | Intake: September 2027 (academic year 2027/28) | Study mode: full-time / part-time | Location: Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom

What you will study

All modules are optional: Introduction to Planning Theory and Practice, Planning Skills and Ethics, Design in the Built Environment, International Planning Studies, Property Development, Professional Practice Project in Environmental Planning (20 credits), GIS and Spatial Analysis (20 credits), Community Planning and Regeneration, Planning and Environmental Governance and Planning Law and Practice. A bespoke top-up version uses Introduction to Planning Theory and Practice, Planning Skills and Ethics, Professional Practice Project, Community Planning and Regeneration and Planning Law and Practice, and combined with MSc City Planning & Design makes students eligible for RTPI accreditation.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Normally a 2.2 honours degree or equivalent in any discipline. Applicants not meeting this but with appropriate acceptable experience are considered case by case, with a supplementary form submitted with the application. Apply ideally no later than 30 June 2027; a deposit is required to secure a place. International applicants: IELTS 6.0 overall with at least 5.5 in each component (taken within the last 2 years) or equivalent.

Domestic applicants: GBP 3,083 a year (2027/28). Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland rate Source

International applicants: GBP 8,133 a year (2027/28). International and EU Other rate Source

Intake: September 2027

Duration: 1 year full-time; 2 years part-time (60 CATS, completed in one semester full-time or accumulated ove

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