Mode of Study

Part-time

Start Date

19th Aug 2025, 31 weeks

Day(s):

Tuesday, Thursday

Time:

13:30 - 16:00

Location

City Campus

Cost

£ 0

Overview

This is a school college partnership course for students in S4-6.

If you're driven to make a real impact on communities and passionate about how our towns and cities evolve, this course is the ideal starting point. Discover how planning shapes everything from parks and schools to housing developments and transport networks.

Guided by expert tutors, you’ll explore real case studies, master digital mapping tools, and develop the critical thinking skills that planners use every day. Whether you're aiming for a career in local government, architecture, environmental sustainability, or community development, this course equips you with the skills, confidence, and insight to take your first step.

Thanks to City of Glasgow College’s strong industry partnerships and connections with local authorities, you’ll also benefit from guest lectures, career insights, and professional guidance to start your future in planning.

Attendance Pattern

Tuesday and Thursday (1.30pm – 4pm).

Entry requirements

Minimum entry requirements

This course would suit applicants with a strong interest in geography, design, social studies, construction, or public services. Students should have good communication skills and a willingness to participate in discussions, case studies, and project work. You must be working at SCQF Level 5 or above. 

What you study

Introduction to Planning Systems

This unit introduces students to the purpose and structure of town planning in Scotland. Students will explore how planning decisions are made and who is involved at national and local levels.
 
Land Use and Zoning

Students will learn how land is classified and managed through zoning. They will examine different types of land use and their role in shaping towns and cities.
 
Reading and Understanding the Local Development Plan (LDP)

This unit focuses on developing skills to read and understand Local Development Plans, includinginterpreting policy maps and written statements.
 
Public Consultation and Community Engagement

Students will explore the importance of engaging communities in planning decisions. They will learn different methods for gathering community feedback.
 
Sustainable Development and Environmental Considerations

Students will be introduced to sustainable planning practices, environmental protection, and climate resilience in the built environment.
 
Urban Design and Place-Making

This unit examines how good urban design improves quality of life. Students will learn about principles such as walkability, green space, and community identity.
 
Introduction to Digital Tools in Planning (GIS and Mapping)

Students will gain basic skills in using digital tools, such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS), to support planning tasks.
 
Planning Application and Assessment Process

This unit covers the planning application process, from submission through to decision. Students will explore how applications are assessed against policies and community feedback.
 
Final Project: Plan Your Own Town

This capstone project allows students to bring together knowledge from all units to create a development plan for a fictional town or regeneration area.

After the course

Careers

• Entry-level roles within planning departments in local authorities.
• Assistant roles with planning consultancies, housing associations, or construction firms.
• This course also develops valuable transferable skills such as communication, critical thinking, project management, and digital literacy, supporting success in a range of careers linked to the built environment. 

Continuing Study 

• HNC or HND in Urban or Environmental Planning, Architectural Technology, or related fields. 
• NC courses in Built Environment, Construction, or Geography.

Modern Apprenticeships 

• Apprenticeship opportunities with local councils in Planning, Building Standards, or related roles.

University Routes

• Direct entry into undergraduate degree programmes such as Town Planning, Urban Studies, Environmental Management, or Geography.