This course develops an innovative approach to planning grounded in theory and lively academic debate, and focused on the skills and competencies required for employment in the area. You base your studies on real life issues and case studies and the course allows you to develop your own interests and specialist areas of study. This course is accredited by the Royal Town Planning Institute and the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors. The course provides you with key knowledge and skills for a planning or planning-related career. It covers topics and issues such as: planning theory, principles and practice; planning policy and policy evaluation; the English and wider approaches to planning; planning law; economic development; the development process and viability appraisal; climate change and environmental issues and protection; design issues including urban design and sustainable design; social equity and cohesion; professional management skills including presentation and project management. The course has been running for over 25 years attracting students from a range of backgrounds including: graduates from a range of subjects such as geography, arts, social sciences and design looking for a professional qualification; practitioners in planning and the wider built environment field who are looking to develop their career; people looking for a change of career direction; international students from Europe, America and beyond. There are exit points within this award to allow you to complete with a postgraduate certificate, diploma or an MSc.