Duration
Full-time: 1 year
Part-time: Varies
Next start date
2024 Late Year Term – 1 December
2025 Semester One – 3 March
Available locations
City
Points
120
Programme type
Postgraduate
Research options available

Programme overview

The Master of Urban Planning (MUrbPlan) encourages advanced exploration and critical analysis of a significant planning issue. Suitable for people with a New Zealand qualification in planning or urban planning, the MUrbPlan is a research-based programme in which you can investigate issues in the design, technology, history, equity and diversity, policy or practice of planning.

Programme structure

You can choose to present your research either as a thesis of approximately 35,000–40,000 words, or as a substantial research portfolio alongside advanced coursework. You can immerse yourself in our supportive research environment, engaging in discourse and debate with School staff and students engaged in similar critical analysis in the field.

Research masters

  • Thesis: 120 points

OR

  • Research portfolio: 90 points
  • Elective courses: 30 points

You'll also need to meet other requirements, including time limits and total points limits. See Postgraduate enrolment.

For all official programme information, including regulations about entry, enrolment, fees, examinations, and requirements for degrees, diplomas and certificates, see the University Calendar.

2024 entry requirements

My highest qualification is from:

Programme requirements

Minimum programme requirements

Minimum requirements listed here are the likely grades required and do not guarantee entry. We assess each application individually and applicants may require a higher grade to be offered a place.

  • Study option
    Research 120 points
    Grade required
    GPA Grade Point Average 5.0

    Bachelor of Urban Planning (Hons) or Bachelor of Planning

Further programme requirements

Research 120 points

You must have completed a Bachelor of Urban Planning (Honours) or Bachelor of Planning degree with a GPA of 5.0 in your final year of study.

Programme requirements

Minimum programme requirements

Minimum requirements listed here are the likely grades required and do not guarantee entry. We assess each application individually and applicants may require a higher grade to be offered a place.

  • Study option
    Research 120 points
    Grade required
    GPE Grade Point Equivalent 5.0

    An undergraduate degree in urban planning or planning

  • Qualification
    IELTS Academic International English Language Testing System
    Score required
    6.5

Further programme requirements

Research 120 points

You must have completed at least an undergraduate degree from a recognised university (or similar institution) in urban planning, planning or related field, such as town planning, urban planning, and planning.

You will need a GPE of 5.0 in your final year of study.

For all official programme information, including regulations about entry, enrolment, fees, examinations, and requirements for degrees, diplomas and certificates, see the University Calendar.

How much does a Master of Planning cost per year?

2024 fees

Domestic students
NZ$8,505.60*
International students
NZ$43,243*

Fees are set in advance of each calendar year and will be updated on this website. Fees are inclusive of 15% GST, but do not include the Student Services Fee, course books, travel and health insurance, or living costs. Amounts shown are indicative only. In addition to the tuition fees, there is a Student Services Fee of $8.88 per point, estimated at $1,065.60 for full-time study (120 points). Fees will be confirmed upon completion of enrolment into courses.

*Please note: amounts shown are indicative and estimates only.

Find out about financial support information

Scholarships and awards

Find out about the scholarships you may be eligible for.

Student loans and allowances

Are you a New Zealand citizen or resident? You could be eligible for a student loan or allowance.

Cost of living

Get an idea of how much accommodation and general living in Auckland will cost.

For all official programme information, including regulations about entry, enrolment, fees, examinations, and requirements for degrees, diplomas and certificates, see the University Calendar.

Key dates

Subject to supervisor availability, a 1 December start is available. Please contact the faculty for this information. 

Please note: We will consider late applications if places are still available. International students should start the application process as early as possible to allow sufficient time to apply for a visa.

Application closing dates

Semester One 2025
8 December 2024
Semester Two 2025
4 July 2025
Late Year Semester 2024
11 November 2024
Late Year Semester 2025
11 November 2025

Start dates

Here are the start dates for the programme.

Other important dates

See important dates for the academic year, including orientation, enrolment, study breaks, exams, and graduation.

For all official programme information, including regulations about entry, enrolment, fees, examinations, and requirements for degrees, diplomas and certificates, see the University Calendar.

We welcome any questions you may have about this programme. Contact our postgraduate adviser:

Postgraduate Adviser
Dr Timothy Welch
Email: t.welch@auckland.ac.nz

For all official programme information, including regulations about entry, enrolment, fees, examinations, and requirements for degrees, diplomas and certificates, see the University Calendar.

Where could this programme take you?

An MUrbPlan will prepare you for a research career. You may choose to pursue doctoral study or academia, or contribute as a specialist in research reports, planning consultation processes and developments.

Jobs related to this programme

  • Academic
  • Consultant
  • Researcher

Student career planning service

Once you become a student at the University, you can get help with planning and developing your career from Career Development and Employability Services.

Do you need help?

AskAuckland

Your online help and support centre. Search our frequently asked questions.

Can’t find the answer in AskAuckland?

Our student support team is here to help. Use our online contact form.

Need to speak to someone?

You can phone us directly.

Auckland
923 5025
Outside Auckland
0800 61 62 63
International
+64 9 373 7513