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Woodhouse Lane,
LS1 3HE
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Course overview
-
L27 -
Distance Learning -
Part-Time -
3 Years -
25 Jan 2027
Accredited by the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI), this flexible, Joint Distance Learning Consortium (JDLC) course will focus on all stages of urban and rural planning, including:
- Urban design
- Plan-making and policy
- Planning law and decision making
- Planning and place histories
- The development process
- Development viability and finance
- Implementation and delivery
- Stakeholder participation and politics
As part of your course, you'll:
- Gain a critical awareness of the social, economic, political, and regulatory nature of planning
- Evaluate development strategies and assess the challenges of planned interventions, sustainability, and climate change
- Specialise in an area of personal interest through an Open University option module
You'll be encouraged to develop links with practitioners via student membership of the RTPI and develop your skills and knowledge through research seminars and professional conferences.
Industry expertise
The MSc Urban & Rural Planning (JDLC) course brings together diverse expertise from three different universities around the UK, including industry professionals. Your teaching team will ensure you get the best in urban and rural planning education.
Professional recognition
The course will put you on the first step of the ladder to becoming a Chartered Planner. Once you have completed the programme - and gained a minimum of two years' structured and mentored relevant experience - you'll be able to apply to become a member of the RTPI.
Sharing ideas
You'll take part in online seminars and present your own ideas for discussion by your peers. This will enable you to reflect critically upon the issues exchanged and arising.
Why study the MSc Urban & Rural Planning course at Leeds Beckett University?
- Industry experienced expert teaching team
- International focus on real-life projects
- Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) accredited course
- Option to specialise in your final year
- Flexible part-time distance study, through our Virtual Learning Environment
Everything you need to know
Discover all there is to know about the course, from entry requirements and fees to exploring the school you’ll be joining - we’ve got it covered.
Entry requirements
Applicants should meet one of the following criteria:
Graduates:
- Have at least a second class honours degree in the cognate subjects such as Geography, Urban Studies, Architecture, Surveying, Environmental Science, Environmental Sustainably, or Housing and Real Estate Management
- Have at least a second class honours degree in a non-cognate subject plus at least one year of professional practice in Urban/Environmental Planning related work environment
- Have at least a second class honours degree in a non-cognate subject plus one 60 credit Open University module (Environment: sharing a dynamic planet DST206)
- Non-graduates will normally be required to complete some study with the Open University before starting on the MSc. This will consist of up to 240 credits, depending upon your academic and professional background. Applicants with significant relevant experience from the work environment may be considered without formal qualifications
- You should describe your experience in detail in your application and provide relevant supporting documentation including your CV
Non-Graduates:
All applications should be supported by a reference, either academic or professional; you can download our reference template for completion
All applicants should satisfy our University English language requirements.
Entry requirements
Applicants should meet one of the following criteria:
Graduates:
- Have at least a second class honours degree in the cognate subjects such as Geography, Urban Studies, Architecture, Surveying, Environmental Science, Environmental Sustainably, or Housing and Real Estate Management
- Have at least a second class honours degree in a non-cognate subject plus at least one year of professional practice in Urban/Environmental Planning related work environment
- Have at least a second class honours degree in a non-cognate subject plus one 60 credit Open University module (Environment: sharing a dynamic planet DST206)
- Non-graduates will normally be required to complete some study with the Open University before starting on the MSc. This will consist of up to 240 credits, depending upon your academic and professional background. Applicants with significant relevant experience from the work environment may be considered without formal qualifications
- You should describe your experience in detail in your application and provide relevant supporting documentation including your CV
Non-Graduates:
All applications should be supported by a reference, either academic or professional; you can download our reference template for completion
All applicants should satisfy our University English language requirements.
IELTS
IELTS 6.0 with no skills below 5.5, or an equivalent qualification. The University provides excellent support for any applicant who may be required to undertake additional English language courses.
Selection Criteria
We may use selection criteria based on your personal attributes; experience and/or commitment to the area of study. This information will be derived from your personal statement and reference and will only be used if you have met the general entry requirements.
Independent study is a crucial part of learning at university and you will be required to undertake many hours of self-directed research and reading, and preparation and writing of assessments. Your course is delivered through a number of modules, which will help you to plan your time and establish a study routine. Outside of your lectures, workshops and tutorials, a range of support is available to assist with your independent study. Our subject-specific librarians will be on hand to direct you to the specialist learning and study-skill resources. You’ll also be assigned an academic advisor to give you tailored feedback and support.
Modules, teaching and learning
Distance learning
We understand that full-time study does not suit everyone. That’s why we offer courses which give you the opportunity to decide where, when and how you can get involved in learning. Studying a distance learning course offers the convenience and flexibility to make education work for you. Whether you’d like to fit your studies around childcare, develop your skills while working or, quite simply, want to learn from the comfort of your own home, we can help you gain a qualification at a time and pace that suits your lifestyle.
Like our students on campus, you’ll have the same excellent teaching and learning resources, however you’ll find these online instead of a lecture theatre. Not only are all the modules taught online, but you’ll also have access to an online community and more than 140,000 books and journals in our online library.
Technical requirements for distance learning study are detailed in the full guide. Visit our distance learning website for more information.
Overall workload
Each module on our distance learning courses is individually designed to maximise your learning so study requirements will vary. As a general guideline, you’ll need to allocate around 10 hours per week to complete each module, plus a further five hours for additional reading and assignments. However, this may vary depending on the module. Teaching and learning will be delivered using a range of interactive resources. This typically includes audio and video content, group discussions, reflective exercises, quizzes, online reading and much more. All these resources are delivered through our Virtual Learning Environment and can be accessed at a time and place that suits you.
What you'll learn
This module explores planning as both an activity, and a regulatory system, tracing its historical evolution from ancient times to the modern era. Beginning with early forms of state intervention in the the built and natural environment – including examples from Mesopotamia, Egypt, and the Roman Empire – you'll examine the origins of planning concepts, both practical and aesthetic. The module then moves though the development of formal regulatory systems, focusing primarily on Britain and Europe after the Industrial Revolution, where changes in urban form prompted new approaches to planning. Throughout, planning is discussed as a series of responses to the perceived challenges of urban, and later rural development.
Spatial planning at a local scale plays a crucial role in stimulating development, supporting economic activity, delivering sustainable communities, and protecting natural environments. People will always need housing, schools, shops, workplaces, and leisure spaces – and local planning is all about ensuring these essential elements are provided in the right amount, quality, and location. This module explores the complex and ongoing challenges of local planning practice. You'll critically reflect on these issues, engage with current guidance and policy, and develop a thorough understanding of the key dilemmas facing local planners today.
This module takes a comparative approach to planning cultures across different countries, with a focus on European Union member states. You'll explore the characteristics of various national planning systems and examine the conceptual and procedural challenges involved in comparing planning practices across diverse cultural contexts. Through guided reading and case study analysis, you'll engage with recent research and learn how to critically assess developments in international planning systems using a range of academic and online sources.
Study the processes used to develop land and property. You'll build a robust understanding of development finance in the context of the process of development and gain the skills necessary to make planning work. A core aspect of how plans are implemented lies in the relationship between policy and action. You'll further explore this link, looking at where the policy/action relationship occurs, how it’s managed in organisations, and how related decisions are made.
This module offers a specialist focus on the ideas, debates, and perspectives that set the wider context of planning practice. You'll choose a thematic area - such as environmental decision-making, project management, managing change, or strategy-making - and develop substantial expertise in that field. This final-year module supports you in aligning your academic work with your personal and professional interests, laying the groundwork for future career development and lifelong learning.
Develop an understanding of sustainable and urban design principles with new and existing places. This module equips you with the skills to analyse and plan high-quality places and spaces using core urban design theory and principles. You'll critically debate and apply the socio-economic, historical, environmental, and governance context that shapes the design and use of buildings and structures. By the end of the module, you'll be able to contribute in a meaningful and confident way to design-centred debates and discussions.
This module examines the theories, processes, and outcomes of spatial planning beyond the local scale. It explores strategic planning at national, regional, macro-regional, and city-regional levels, with particular attention to major infrastructure projects within these settings. Using case studies from a variety of sectors across the UK and internationally, you'll evaluate best-practice approaches and the techniques adopted by planning teams. These examples also highlight the common challenges faced in strategic planning – including the need to balance local interests with broader national or regional priorities.
This module examines the implementation of urban and rural planning as a key aspect of public policy. Drawing on broader public policy frameworks, it explores different perspectives on how planning decisions are delivered in practice. You'll begin by investigating traditional and contemporary theories of policy implementation, followed by a focused exploration of delivery challenges within the property development process. Topics include the stages of development, the role of contracts, the function of development teams, and the importance of planning obligations and cost recovery options.
This module focuses on the design and implementation of planning research. You'll develop the skills to carry out both academic and professional research work, and to critically appraise the work of others. Emphasis is placed on a social science approach to formulating research questions, analysing problems, and selecting appropriate methodologies.
Your dissertation is an independent, in-depth research project that enables you to apply and extend the knowledge, skills, and understanding developed throughout the course. You'll design, manage, and produce a substantial piece of individual research at master’s level, drawing on both academic and practical experience. The module provides structured support to help you plan and manage your work over an extended period, culminating in the completion of your dissertation.
Fees and funding
The tuition fee for students entering in 2026/27 is £4160 in Year 1, £4160 in Year 2 and £2080 in Year 3.
The tuition fee for students entering in 2026/27 is £4580 in Year 1, £4580 in Year 2 and £2290 in Year 3.
Fees and funding
The tuition fee for students entering in 2026/27 is £4160 in Year 1, £4160 in Year 2 and £2080 in Year 3.Open University Specialism module in year 3 - you will need to pay £1,735 directly to the Open University. (Fee as of June 2023 and is subject to change. Please check with the Open University for the latest cost.)
Additional course costs
Tuition Fees
Your tuition fees cover the cost of registration, tuition, academic supervision, assessments and examinations.
The following are also included in the cost of your course:
- 24/7 Library and student IT support
- Free wifi via eduroam
- Skills workshops and resources
- Library membership, giving access to more than 500,000 printed, multimedia and digital resources
- Access to software, including five free copies of Microsoft Office 365 to install on your PC,laptop and MAC, and access to free high-end software via the Leeds Beckett remote app
- Loan of high-end media equipment to support your studies
In many cases, costs associated with your course will be included in your course fee. However, in some cases there are ‘essential’ additional costs (those that you will be required to meet in addition to your course fee), and/or ‘optional’ additional costs (costs that are not required, but that you might choose to pay). We have included those essential or optional additional costs that relate to your course, below.
Essential Costs
- Open University Specialism Module: you'll need to pay £1840 directly to the Open University. This cost is accurate for students with a permanent address in England for academic year 2025/26 and is subject to increase annually. Please check with the Open University for specific modules and latest cost. This fee will vary for international students depending on your permanent address/domicile.
- You’ll need access to a computer, the internet, and any necessary course software. Visit the course Teaching & Learning 'Modules, Workload & More' section for more details.
Other study-related expenses to consider: materials that you will need to complete your course such as books (whilst the library provides access to readings recommended for your modules, you may wish to purchase your own copies of some books); you can also make suggestions for books to be added to Library stock; placement costs (these may include travel expenses and living costs); student visas (international students only); printing, photocopying and stationery (you may need to pay for multiple copies of your dissertation or final project to be printed and bound); events associated with your course such as field trips; study abroad opportunities (travel costs and accommodation, visas and immunisations). Other costs could include academic conferences (travel costs) and professional-body membership (where applicable). The costs you will need to cover for graduation will include gown hire and guest tickets, and optional extras such as professional photography.
As well as your mobile phone, you will also need access to a desktop computer and/or laptop to complete assignments and access university online services such as MyBeckett, your virtual learning environment. You can book and borrow AV equipment through the media equipment service accessed online via the student hub and located in the library at each campus. Equipment includes: 360 Cameras, iPads, GoPros, MacBooks, portable data projectors, portable projection screens, flipchart stands, remote presenters, digital cameras and camcorders, SLR cameras, speakers, microphones, headphones, headsets, tripods, digital audio recorders and PC/laptops (a laptop loans service is provided on campus in the library on both campuses). Student laptops are also available from the laptop lockers located in the libraries.
This list is not exhaustive, costs are approximate and will vary depending on the choices you make during your course. Any rental, travel or living costs are also in addition to your course fees. If you choose to study via distance learning, you may not be able to access all of the facilities listed if you are not able to visit us on campus.
The tuition fee for students entering in 2026/27 is £4580 in Year 1, £4580 in Year 2 and £2290 in Year 3.Open University Specialism module in year 3 - you will need to pay £1,735 directly to the Open University. (Fee as of June 2023 and is subject to change. Please check with the Open University for the latest cost.)
Additional course costs
Tuition Fees
Your tuition fees cover the cost of registration, tuition, academic supervision, assessments and examinations.
The following are also included in the cost of your course:
- 24/7 Library and student IT support
- Free wifi via eduroam
- Skills workshops and resources
- Library membership, giving access to more than 500,000 printed, multimedia and digital resources
- Access to software, including five free copies of Microsoft Office 365 to install on your PC,laptop and MAC, and access to free high-end software via the Leeds Beckett remote app
- Loan of high-end media equipment to support your studies
In many cases, costs associated with your course will be included in your course fee. However, in some cases there are ‘essential’ additional costs (those that you will be required to meet in addition to your course fee), and/or ‘optional’ additional costs (costs that are not required, but that you might choose to pay). We have included those essential or optional additional costs that relate to your course, below.
Essential Costs
- Open University Specialism Module: you'll need to pay £1840 directly to the Open University. This cost is accurate for students with a permanent address in England for academic year 2025/26 and is subject to increase annually. Please check with the Open University for specific modules and latest cost. This fee will vary for international students depending on your permanent address/domicile.
- You’ll need access to a computer, the internet, and any necessary course software. Visit the course Teaching & Learning 'Modules, Workload & More' section for more details.
Other study-related expenses to consider: materials that you will need to complete your course such as books (whilst the library provides access to readings recommended for your modules, you may wish to purchase your own copies of some books); you can also make suggestions for books to be added to Library stock; placement costs (these may include travel expenses and living costs); student visas (international students only); printing, photocopying and stationery (you may need to pay for multiple copies of your dissertation or final project to be printed and bound); events associated with your course such as field trips; study abroad opportunities (travel costs and accommodation, visas and immunisations). Other costs could include academic conferences (travel costs) and professional-body membership (where applicable). The costs you will need to cover for graduation will include gown hire and guest tickets, and optional extras such as professional photography.
As well as your mobile phone, you will also need access to a desktop computer and/or laptop to complete assignments and access university online services such as MyBeckett, your virtual learning environment. You can book and borrow AV equipment through the media equipment service accessed online via the student hub and located in the library at each campus. Equipment includes: 360 Cameras, iPads, GoPros, MacBooks, portable data projectors, portable projection screens, flipchart stands, remote presenters, digital cameras and camcorders, SLR cameras, speakers, microphones, headphones, headsets, tripods, digital audio recorders and PC/laptops (a laptop loans service is provided on campus in the library on both campuses). Student laptops are also available from the laptop lockers located in the libraries.
This list is not exhaustive, costs are approximate and will vary depending on the choices you make during your course. Any rental, travel or living costs are also in addition to your course fees. If you choose to study via distance learning, you may not be able to access all of the facilities listed if you are not able to visit us on campus.
Funding support for your studies
Discover more about our range of postgraduate funding options including a Master's Loan of up to £13,206, and our 20% alumni discount*
*Terms apply
Career prospects
There’s a lot to consider when choosing a course. Take a look at the team you’ll be working with, employability statistics and career prospects to help make up your mind.
Career Prospects
MSc Urban and Rural Planning prepares you for work as a planner in a range of sectors, including local or central government and private practice. You could gain employment in planning, development, construction management, urban design, local or regional council planning departments, or charities and community planning initiatives.
- Planning and urban design consultant
- Town planner
- Environmental consultant
- Real estate consultant
Dr Quintin Bradley
Senior Lecturer / School of Built Environment, Engineering and Computing
Dr Quintin Bradley is a Senior Lecturer in Planning and Housing at Leeds Beckett University, and leads research into community engagement in planning with a particular focus on issues of housing supply and housing policy.
Beckett Careers Team
Our careers service is not just there for undergraduates, we support our postgraduate taught and research students too.
Your postgraduate degree will boost your CV and help you stand out from the crowd. Whether you're just starting out on your chosen career path, changing careers or moving to the next level, we can provide you with expert advice and resources to help you take the next steps to achieving your goals.
Student life
At Leeds Beckett your experience is important to us, find out more about what to expect from your time on this course and life at uni.
what is distance learning?
A great option for flexible learning
Very simply, to study by distance learning means you don't have to be based in Leeds to take one of our courses. Wherever you are and whatever you want to study, it's a great option for flexible learning.
When you choose one of our distance learning courses, you can do just that – study at a distance, at a pace that suits you.
Like our students on campus, you will have the same excellent teaching and learning resources, however you'll find these online instead of in a lecture theatre. Not only are the modules taught online but you will also have access to an online community and more than 140,000 books and journals in our online library.
Our extensive list of distance learning courses means that whether you are from the UK or further afield, changing your career path or looking for that promotion, we have a course that suits your needs.
Thinking of staying at home for your studies?
It’s a great option for lots of our local students
