Master of Regional Planning by Research
Drive change for regions of the future via research. The planning profession demands real-world solutions for the constantly changing environment we live in. Conduct research that advances the way town planners approach complex issues, and provide insights into the evolving needs of diverse communities and regions, in Australia and globally.
In this program you will:
- Complete one required research course and an original thesis on a topic of your choice, from coastal management to water allocation and planning, urban planning, design issues, dispute resolution, and more
- Develop advanced skills in research design, analysis and written communication
- Advance the way town planners approach complex issues, and contribute to future planning practice
Location
CRICOS code
Duration
Full-time or equivalent part-time Only a full-time option is available to international students on a Student visa. Online programs are not available to Student visa holders.Indicative fees
Indicative 2025 fees (A$)
Annual fee- Delivery mode
-
- Blended Learning
- Duration
- 2 years 2 years
- CRICOS code
- 070697D
- UniSC program code
- AR863
- Program coordinator
A Higher Degree by Research (HDR) is a supervised research program that requires undertaking original research, resulting in a thesis, or a thesis and exegesis.
During the Master by Research program, Master by Research candidates are required to achieve several milestones that relate to their research training.
Milestones are program requirements and periodic assessments of candidature progression. Milestones are distributed throughout HDR candidature providing structure and mechanism for regular review and feedback on progress towards both the research project and attainment of the University’s Research Graduate Attributes.
In addition to HDR program milestones, some candidates may also have:
- project milestones (such as external progress reports to third party funding providers) that they are required to contribute to; and
- scholarship conditions as specified in their scholarship conditions document
- Coursework (discuss with your proposed supervisor prior to applying)
Information on HDR milestones is available in the UniSC Higher Degree by Research Candidature Progression - Guidelines.
To be eligible for admission to a research Master degree, an applicant must hold:
(a) a Bachelor degree (AQF Level 7) with a Grade Point Average of 5.0 or higher on a seven point scale from a recognised higher education institution; or
(b) a Bachelor Honours degree (AQF Level 8) Class IIB from a recognised higher education institution; or
(c) a record of qualifications and/or professional research experience deemed to be equivalent to the standard of (a) or (b) as may be approved by the Research Degrees Committee, or the Chairperson acting on behalf of the Committee.
The prior study must be in an area of study relevant to the discipline area of the Master degree. If the prior study has not included an appropriate preparation in research methodology, the candidate will be required to undertake an appropriate research methodology course, as specified by the relevant Head of School, as part of their candidature.
The admission requirements for a specific Master degree may include additional requirements, such as a Bachelor degree in the relevant discipline, professional registration, a specified number of years of professional practice, or other requirements indicative of a suitable preparation to undertake a research program at Master level. Additional requirements should be discussed with your proposed supervision team prior to applying.
Refer also to the University’s English language requirements.
Admission is subject to availability of appropriate supervision and facilities.
English language requirements
- Annual tuition fee (A$, 2025)
- A$29,600
Domestic higher degree by research applicants are assessed for a fee-offset scholarship as part the program admission assessment process.
If successful, this information will be included in the Description of Candidature which is provided with the Offer of Admission.
The maximum period of a fee-offset scholarship for full-time candidates is four years for Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) students and two years for Master by Research candidates (part time equivalent).
After this time candidates will be liable for fees.
For information on how higher degree by research student fees are calculated, including the Student Services and Amenities Fee, visit the Higher Degree by Research Student Fee Calculation Information page.
International student fee information is available on the Tuition fees and other costs page. For information on how higher degree by research student fees are calculated, including the Student Services and Amenities Fee, visit the Higher Degree by Research Student Fee Calculation Information page. Visit the HDR scholarships page for information on available scholarships.
Estimated total tuition fees are based on 2023 rates and the minimum number of courses required within the programs standard duration.
Annual tuition fees are based on 2023 rates and the equivalent full-time student load as per the recommended study sequence in the relevant program.
Actual fees payable are based on the actual enrolment load in a teaching period (excluding Study Abroad and Postgraduate Qualifying Pathway).
All prices quoted are in Australian Dollars (A$).
HDR students can commence their Masters at any time
No matter what kind of future you’re looking for, you can find it at UniSC. Our programs offer the choice and flexibility you need to get started on any career goal.
Visit How to apply for simple steps to submit your international student application and start your UniSC experience today.
Need help with submitting your application?
UniSC has appointed representatives to assist you with submitting your application and provide information about the steps you need to complete to begin your studies. You can contact a UniSC Representative in your area.
Any questions? Contact us.
Applications can be submitted at any time.
Visit the How to apply page for information on preparing and submitting your application.
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Our Student Central team can help.
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