Stage 1: Provides introduction to the key issues, processes and professional skills required for planning practice; includes projects that promote group working, design skills and use of specialist software; students are introduced to a wide range of planning activity, the key political and administrative structures and contemporary issues facing the planning profession.

Stage 2: Provides more detailed theoretical appreciation of planning, with modules examining economics, sustainable development and planning theory; includes 2 projects, 1 that develops skills in spatial planning policy, the other that promotes understanding of the development control process; students also have opportunity to further develop skills in design issues and are introduced to the social aspects of planning activity.

Stage 3: Promotes a greater understanding of planning practice in a variety of political and cultural contexts.