City Planning & Environmental Policy (RCS1)

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Next Intake TBA

Course Overview

The Bachelor of City Planning & Environmental Policy at University College Dublin equips you with essential analytical skills and critical thinking abilities to address complex challenges in the built and natural environments. This four-year undergraduate degree is designed for students passionate about shaping sustainable and equitable urban futures, providing the foundational knowledge required for a successful career as a professional planner. You will explore key concepts in land use, environmental economics, urban design, and environmental policy, preparing you to contribute meaningfully to contemporary planning issues.

You will study this programme full-time on campus over four years, engaging with a curriculum that balances theoretical understanding with practical application through studio projects and research methods. The syllabus includes core modules such as Introduction to City Planning, Environmental Change & Policy, and GIS, alongside opportunities to specialise. You will graduate with a UCD Bachelors Degree, ready to pursue diverse career paths in local government, private sector consultancies, or governmental bodies, addressing critical areas like infrastructure development and renewable energy policy.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This program explores the intricate relationship between urban development and environmental sustainability. Students will delve into core concepts of land use, environmental economics, and city planning history, alongside practical studios and research methods. The curriculum progresses to examine environmental policy, smart cities, community development, and regional planning, culminating in advanced studies of environmental management, climate policy, and sustainable community design.

1 Stage 1 Core Modules

Land Use and the Environment
Environmental Economics
Understanding Landscape I
Introduction to City Planning
History of City Planning
Research methods
Environment Change & Policy
Urban Design
Planning and Development Studio
Inequality and Social Justice in Irish Society

2 Stage 1 Options

Economics and Sustainability
People, Places, Regions

3 Stage 2 Core Modules

Case Studies Environmental Pol
Introduction to GIS
Smart Cities
Socio-Spatial Dynamics
Community Development and Planning
Local Planning Studio
Urban & Regional Economics
Rural Change, Dev.& Plan.

4 Stage 2 Options

History & Theory of the Designed Environment III - Survey Course 2
Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals
Cities in a Global World

5 Stage 3 Core Modules

Environmental Management
Climate Policy and Politics
Transport, Environment & Sustainability
Placemaking: Urban and Rural Design
Planning, Society and Diversity
Rural & Landscape Planning
Regional Innovation
Planning Law
Healthy and Sust. Communities

6 Stage 3 Options

Environmental Assessment
Social Policy, Social Justice and the Environment

7 Stage 4 Core Modules

Environmental Management
Climate Policy and Politics
Transport, Environment & Sustainability
Placemaking: Urban and Rural Design
Planning, Society and Diversity
Rural & Landscape Planning
Regional Innovation
Planning Law
Healthy and Sust. Communities

8 Stage 4 Options

Environmental Assessment
Social Policy, Social Justice and the Environment

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 26,585.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 26,585.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 26,585.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 26,585.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 106,343.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 349.00 - USD 849.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,930.00 - USD 5,613.00
Transport USD 842.00 - USD 1,965.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,404.00 - USD 2,105.00
Estimated Total USD 6,176.00 - USD 9,683.00

Living cost estimates are based on Belfield campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

99%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Adult & Continuing EducationAgricultural Research & DevelopmentAgricultural Technology & Precision FarmingAgrochemical & Seed IndustryCorporate Training & DevelopmentCrop Production & FarmingEarly Childhood & Primary EducationEducation Policy & AdministrationFisheries & AquacultureLivestock & Animal Husbandry

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Department of Agriculture and Rural development, Northern Ireland Government

Dublin City University

Maynooth University

RPS

Teagasc

Trinity College Dublin

University College Dublin

Why Study City Planning & Environmental Policy (RCS1) at University College Dublin

What makes this program stand out

Top 20 in UK For Computer Science

Exeter's Computer Science department consistently ranks among the top 20 in the UK for both teaching quality and research output.

Fast Offers Quick turnaround

Exeter typically responds to applications within 2-3 weeks, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Flexible Intakes September start

Primary intake in September with January start available for some pathways through the INTO foundation program.

Accredited Industry recognized

Accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, meeting requirements for Chartered IT Professional (CITP) status.

Life at University College Dublin in Ireland

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about City Planning & Environmental Policy (RCS1) at University College Dublin

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and 40 hours during breaks. No separate work permit is needed, but full-time enrollment in a program is required.

What English language score do I need for this course?

For English proficiency, students can submit scores from tests like Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE. Specific score requirements vary by test, so be sure to check the details for your preferred assessment.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Job titles include Urban Planner, Environmental Consultant, Planning Policy Officer, Transport Planner, and Project Manager.

What will I actually study in this course?

This degree equips students with strong analytical skills and critical thinking about the built and natural environment. Graduates typically pursue careers as professional planners, engaging with city councils and private sector consultancies.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The City Planning & Environmental Policy program begins in September. Ensure you're ready to join in at that time!
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