Built environments play a significant role in how we function as groups of people – suburbs, towns, cities, societies. Additionally, there is growing concern about how we respond to the natural environments within which all human activity takes place.
Land and land use decisions have cultural, social, legal, economic and ecosystem implications and this BSc degree offers a broad perspective on these issues.
While it may be noticeable if our built environments are poorly designed, through studying this degree, you will recognise the attributes of excellence in planning and urban development.
Why study Land Planning and Development?
Land planning, land administration and the process of land subdivision have significant impacts on the layout and function of human and natural landscapes. These activities influence the way land is used, patterns of residential development and assessments of the economic potential of land. For some, land also has an important cultural value.
This degree provides an excellent foundation for those wanting a career in planning, land development and resource management, especially in relation to the subdivision and administration of land. It differs from other New Zealand planning degrees in that it emphasises engineering design and land administration, from Pākehā and Māori perspectives, as well as covering essential aspects of New Zealand legislation that relate to land development. It encompasses the practical aspects of planning and planning law.
What will I study?
100-level
If you wish to complete the BSc in Land Planning and Development, you must take the following papers:
200-level papers include civil engineering, urban design, geographic information systems, land administration, land tenure and planning.
300-level
Papers at 300-level and above include Resource Management Act processes and offers experience in designing residential subdivisions in concept and detailed layout phases.
Students can add papers from other degree programmes (such as Geography, Economics or Surveying) to complement their programme of study.
How will I study?
Land Planning and Development is a practical course as well as an academic one. You will have lectures, tutorials and workshops using computer software and Computer Aided Draughting packages, and Geographic Information Systems data gathering and analysis (including communicating spatial information).
You will also undertake engineering labs, infrastructure inspections, site visits to view landscape and construction examples and a one week hands on field course at the end of the academic year.
Combining Landing Planning and Development with other areas of study
The Land Planning and Development major lends itself to combining with Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Geography, Business / Management, Environment and Society or Environmental Management. These compatible subjects are available as minors within the Science degree structure, allowing you to pursue a coherent line of study through to an advanced level, within the three- year degree.
You could also combine Land Planning and Development with a second major e.g., Geography or Geographic Information Systems, if you have a passion for a second area of endeavour.
Graduate Qualifications
Our graduate qualifications are crafted to transition students from foundational studies to advanced, specialised knowledge.
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