What Degrees Are RTPI Accredited?
12 Mar, 20241-2 minutes
In this blog, you will learn:
- What the RTPI is.
- Which degrees are RTPI accredited.
- Why an RTPI accreditation is important.
- Where the latest planning jobs are and how to apply for them.
The Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) describe themselves as ‘a leading membership organisation and a Chartered Institute responsible for maintaining professional standards and accrediting world class planning courses nationally and internationally.’
For aspiring Planners looking for a suitable degree to equip them with the skills and experience required to succeed in the field, embarking on an RTPI accredited degree is of utmost importance.
In our latest blog, we’re discovering what degrees are RTPI accredited and why this accreditation is so important.
What is the RTPI?
The RTPI stands for the Royal Town Planning Institute which is a professional institute in the United Kingdom, responsible for promoting and advancing the science and art of town planning for the benefit of the public.
Founded in 1914, the RTPI was granted a royal charter in 1959 and currently has over 27,000 members across 88 different countries.
The RTPI serves as a representative body for Planners and sets the standards that must be adhered to within the planning profession.
The institute also provides education and training whilst shaping policies and practices related to rural development, the built environment and the sustainability of projects.
What degrees are RTPI accredited?
The Royal Town Planning Institute accredits a number of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees across planning related disciplines.
Degrees accredited by the RTPI typically cover topics like urban design, environmental planning, land use planning and transportation planning.
Planning recruitment specialist, Joel Khambay, says “Accreditation from the RTPI ensures that the program of study meets the standards issued by the institute and will equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to pursue a career in planning.”
It’s important to regularly check the RTPI website for up to date information, as accreditation requirements and eligible degrees can change over time.
Some of the most commonly accredited degrees by the RTPI are currently:
- Bachelor of Science (BSc) or Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Town Planning.
- Bachelor of Planning (BPlan).
- Bachelor of Urban and Regional Planning (BURP).
- Master of Planning (MPlan).
- Master of Science (MSc) in Spatial Planning or Urban Planning.
Bachelor of Science (BSc) or Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Town Planning
A Bachelor of Science (BSc) or Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Town Planning is an undergraduate degree program, focusing on the study of urban and regional planning.
The specific study topics of this degree often include urban design and architecture, housing policy and affordable housing, land use regulation and zoning, and economic development and regeneration; however the specific curriculum can vary depending on the institute offering the program.
Once completed, a student who has graduated with a Bachelor of Science (BSc) or Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Town Planning, might choose to pursue a career within a government agency, non-profit organisation or private sector firm.
Bachelor of Planning (BPlan)
Whilst undertaking a Bachelor of Planning, also known as a BPlan, students are taught about the principles and theories of planning, as well as the practical skills.
Practical skills taught throughout a Bachelor of Planning degree include data analysis, Geographic Information Systems applications and participatory planning processes.
Joel Khambay explains, “Throughout a Bachelor of Planning program, students might also have the opportunity to take part in an internship, project-based learning or gain exposure to planning practices in a real-world setting.”
Bachelor of Urban and Regional Planning (BURP)
A Bachelor of Urban and Regional Planning (BURP) is an undergraduate degree program designed to equip its students with a comprehensive understanding of the principles, theories and practices of planning in urban and regional contexts.
Throughout a Bachelor of Urban and Regional Planning, students are provided with an in-depth insight into the complex interactions between social, economic, environmental and spatial factors that shape the built environment and influence the planning process.
Master of Planning (MPlan)
A Master of Planning, known as MPlan, is a postgraduate degree program, designed to provide students with advanced education and training in the field of urban and regional planning.
An MPlan program typically builds on the foundations introduced during an undergraduate degree and gives a more in-depth insight into specialised areas of planning practice.
The common components of a Master of Planning include advanced coursework, internship experiences and a research component that can be undertaken either individually or as a team and is used to investigate planning issues.
Master of Science (MSc) in Spatial Planning or Urban Planning
A Master of Science (MSc) in Spatial Planning or Urban Planning, is a postgraduate degree program designed to provide specialised education and training in the field of spatial planning.
This postgraduate program typically offers a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical skills to prepare students for a career in planning.
The curriculum for an MSc in Spatial Planning or Urban Planning program can cover a variety of topics related to urban development, environmental sustainability and transportation planning.
Why is an RTPI accreditation important?
Accreditation from the Royal Town Planning Institute is important for a number of different reasons.
First and foremost, RTPI accreditation shows that a planning program has met the rigorous standards set by the institute. Graduating from an accredited program is an important way for a student to enhance their credibility.
RTPI members are required to partake in Continuous Professional Development (CPD) activities in order to maintain their professional competence. Those who have graduated from an accredited course are usually well-equipped to fulfil CPD requirements and stay up to date with developments within the planning profession.
Discover the latest RTPI planning jobs
As planning recruitment specialists, we have a fantastic track record of connecting qualified and experienced RTPI Planners with local authorities and private sector organisations across the United Kingdom.
Looking for your next planning role? Discover and apply for your next position by uploading your CV to our website.
Alternatively, our Senior Consultant, Joel Khambay, is on hand to help you take the next step in your career. Get in touch with him today to discover more!
Who is Spencer Clarke Group
Since 2017 we have been committed to finding clients outstanding individuals for their team and helping candidates secure a fulfilling job position. We have a wealth of expertise across eleven different specialisms and we are on hand to assist with every stage of the recruitment process.
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