BSc Urban Planning & Development

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 80% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.

English language proficiency:

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
• TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 90.
• PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 69.
• Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.

Cardiff University offers a range of scholarships to support international students pursuing undergraduate studies. These scholarships are designed to attract high-achieving students from around the world, easing the financial burden and recognizing academic excellence. 

Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship: Cardiff University’s Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship is a merit-based award that provides partial funding for exceptional international undergraduate and postgraduate students. This scholarship rewards high academic achievement and study, making it ideal for students with strong academic backgrounds.

Chevening Scholarship: Offered in collaboration with the UK government, the prestigious Chevening Scholarship is available to international students who demonstrate leadership potential and academic excellence. The award covers tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, and other allowances, supporting future leaders and influencers in various fields.

British Council GREAT Scholarships: Cardiff University partners with the British Council to offer the GREAT Scholarships for students from specific countries, including China, India, Malaysia, and Thailand. These scholarships provide financial assistance for tuition fees and are intended to encourage bright students to pursue postgraduate studies in the UK.

Subject-Specific Scholarships: Certain academic departments at Cardiff University offer additional scholarships tailored to specific fields of study, such as engineering, business, and life sciences. These scholarships provide partial funding and are aimed at attracting talented students to specific programs.

International Foundation Programme Scholarships: For international students who need to complete a foundation year before beginning an undergraduate degree, Cardiff University offers scholarships to cover part of the foundation year tuition fees. This scholarship supports students in their transition to full-time degree programs at the university.

Financial Aid and External Scholarships: In addition to Cardiff University scholarships, students can explore external funding options such as loans, grants, and scholarships provided by their home countries or private organizations. The university’s financial aid office offers guidance to help students find external financial support.

Graduates of the BSc in Urban Planning & Development from Cardiff University have a wide range of career opportunities in both the public and private sectors, addressing the growing demand for professionals who can design, plan, and manage urban spaces. The knowledge and skills acquired during the program prepare students for impactful roles in urban development, infrastructure planning, sustainability, and policy making.

Urban Planner: One of the most common career paths, urban planners work in local government, urban development agencies, or private consultancies. They are responsible for creating and implementing land-use plans, zoning regulations, and development policies that guide the growth of cities and communities. Urban planners ensure that cities are developed sustainably while balancing the needs of housing, transportation, and environmental protection.

Urban Designer: Urban designers focus on the physical design of urban spaces, including streets, public spaces, and housing developments. Their role is to improve the aesthetic and functional aspects of urban environments, ensuring they are accessible, livable, and visually appealing. Urban designers may work alongside architects, landscape architects, and urban planners to create cohesive urban landscapes.

Transportation Planner: Transportation planners specialize in the design and implementation of transportation systems within urban areas. They work to improve mobility, reduce congestion, and create sustainable transport networks that are integrated with land use and urban planning. This role often involves working with local authorities, transportation agencies, and public policy organizations.

Sustainability Consultant: As cities strive to meet sustainability goals, there is an increasing demand for professionals who can assess the environmental impact of urban developments. Sustainability consultants help developers, local authorities, and businesses implement sustainable practices in urban planning, focusing on energy efficiency, waste reduction, green spaces, and low-carbon infrastructure.

Housing Officer/Development Manager: Housing officers work in the public or private sector to plan, manage, and develop housing projects, ensuring that they meet the needs of local communities and comply with planning regulations. Housing development managers oversee the entire process of housing project development, from securing land to managing construction and financing.

Environmental Planner: Environmental planners focus on the integration of environmental concerns into urban planning and development. They evaluate the environmental impact of projects, including air quality, water management, waste, and biodiversity, and work to ensure that development is environmentally responsible and sustainable.

Regeneration Specialist: Urban regeneration specialists work on the revitalization of deteriorating or underdeveloped areas. They work on strategies to redevelop these areas by improving infrastructure, housing, and community amenities, while ensuring that the social, cultural, and economic aspects of the area are enhanced.

Real Estate Development Manager: Real estate development managers work within the private sector to oversee the planning, development, and construction of new properties or the redevelopment of existing ones. They manage the financial, legal, and practical aspects of urban development projects, coordinating with architects, contractors, local authorities, and investors.

Planning Policy Advisor: In this role, professionals work within government departments, think tanks, or urban policy organizations, advising on planning and development policy. They research and analyze policy options, contribute to the formulation of planning laws and regulations, and help shape urban development strategies at the national or local government level.

Consultant in Urban Affairs: Graduates may also work as consultants, providing expert advice on urban development projects, policy analysis, and city planning strategies. Consultants often collaborate with both government bodies and private companies, helping them navigate the complexities of urban development, regulatory compliance, and community engagement.

International Development Officer: With a global perspective on urban planning, graduates can work for international organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), or development agencies. These professionals focus on urban planning and development in emerging markets or developing countries, where rapid urbanization presents both challenges and opportunities for growth.