- Duration
- Full-time: 1 year
- Part-time: Varies
- Next start date
- 2025 Semester One – 3 March
- 2025 Semester Two – 21 July
- 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.
2025 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 optionResearch 120 pointsGrade requiredGPA 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) with a GPA of 5.0 in 60 points above Stage III.
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 optionResearch 120 pointsGrade requiredGPE Grade Point Equivalent 5.0
An undergraduate degree in urban planning or planning
-
QualificationIELTS Academic International English Language Testing SystemScore required6.5
No bands less than 6.0
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.
How much does a Master of Planning cost per year?
2025 fees
- Domestic students
- NZ$9,015.60*
- International students
- NZ$44,972*
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 $9.24 per point, estimated at $1,108.80 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.
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.
| Semester One | Starts – 26 February |
|---|---|
| Ends – 24 June | |
| Semester Two | Starts – 15 July |
| Ends – 11 November | |
| Late Year Term | Starts – 1 December |
| Ends – 1 March |
| Semester One | Starts – 3 March |
|---|---|
| Ends – 30 June | |
| Semester Two | Starts – 21 July |
| Ends – 17 November | |
| Late Year Term | Starts – 1 December |
| Ends – 1 March |
Other important dates
See important dates for the academic year, including orientation, enrolment, study breaks, exams, and graduation.
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
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?
Can’t find the answer in AskAuckland?
Need to speak to someone?
You can phone us directly.
- Auckland
- 923 5025
- Outside Auckland
- 0800 61 62 63
- International
- +64 9 373 7513