Urban And Environmental Planning (With Foundation Year) BA
London South Bank University, United Kingdom
Urban and Environmental Planning (With Foundation Year) BA (Hons)
London South Bank University
Urban and Environmental Planning
Program Overview: Urban and Environmental Planning (With Foundation Year)
The Urban and Environmental Planning (With Foundation Year) BA at London South Bank University is designed for students who want to shape the future of cities and communities but may not yet meet the standard entry requirements for a degree course. The foundation year provides essential preparation in technology, communication, numeracy, and project-based learning, setting you up for success across the three subsequent years of the full planning degree.
Throughout this program, you will explore how geography, society, and sustainability intersect in town planning. You will study key issues such as urban design and regeneration, environmental management and climate change, housing, transport, and the history of planning in the UK and across Europe.
LSBU is the second oldest planning school in the UK, having delivered professionally accredited planning courses for over 50 years. The degree is accredited by the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI), meaning graduates are eligible to begin the pathway toward becoming chartered planners in a profession experiencing a national shortage of qualified professionals.
Key Program Highlights
- Accredited by the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI), the leading professional body for spatial planning in the UK and internationally.
- Study in the heart of London, one of the most dynamic and constantly evolving cities in the world, with access to real planning projects and site visits.
- Compulsory work experience module in Year 2, giving you practical industry exposure and enhancing your employability before graduation.
- LSBU is the second oldest planning school in the UK, with alumni including three past Presidents of the RTPI and many senior professionals in the field.
Curriculum and Modules
The program spans four years, beginning with a foundation year that builds core academic skills before progressing into specialist planning modules. The curriculum blends theoretical knowledge with practical application, including fieldwork, site visits, and a compulsory work experience placement.
An introductory module that explores the relationship between technology and the built and natural environment, establishing foundational knowledge for your planning studies.
Focuses on the creative aspects of spatial planning and the principle that good planning and good design are inseparable. Students are introduced to urban design as a process of place-making and learn to visually communicate ideas through plans and other media.
Provides an introduction to how the planning system and planning practices have evolved in the UK, with critical consideration of the key attributes of the system since the Town and Country Planning Act 1947.
Explores the importance of place and the challenges involved in regenerating urban and rural environments facing issues of decline and restructuring, with a focus on local-scale interventions and strategies.
Investigates the role, nature, benefits, and disadvantages of evidence-based planning and policy making. Equips students with appropriate research techniques, methodologies, and the ability to write a research proposal.
Dissertation (Year 3)
Double moduleA substantial independent research project spanning both semesters of the final year, allowing you to investigate a planning topic of your choice in depth and demonstrate your analytical and research capabilities.
Additional Specialist Modules
Admission Requirements
The foundation year pathway is specifically designed for students who do not meet the standard entry requirements for the three-year BA but have the experience, maturity, and determination to pursue a career in planning. All applications are handled through Uni4Edu, who will guide you through the entire process.
Academic Requirements
- Foundation Year EntryApplicants who do not meet standard degree entry requirements but can demonstrate relevant experience, maturity, and motivation are encouraged to apply.
- GCSE RequirementsEnglish and Maths qualifications are typically required. Contact Uni4Edu for specific grade requirements.
- Mature StudentsPrevious skills, knowledge, or experience gained outside formal education will be considered during the application review.
- International QualificationsOverseas qualifications equivalent to UK entry standards are accepted. Contact Uni4Edu for equivalency guidance.
- Age RequirementApplicants must be 18 years or older at the start of the program.
English Language Requirements
- IELTSOverall score of 6.0, with a minimum of 5.5 in each component
- TOEFL iBTMinimum score of 80
- Equivalent QualificationsOther English language qualifications equivalent to IELTS 6.0 are accepted. Contact Uni4Edu for details.
Required Documents
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
London South Bank University offers several funding opportunities designed to support international students in managing the cost of their studies. Uni4Edu can help you identify and apply for relevant scholarships and fee discounts.
LSBU Future Global Graduate Award
A tuition fee discount available to international students upon acceptance of their offer and receipt of deposit by a set deadline. This award recognises the continued commitment of international students to LSBU.
LSBU Pathway Progression Scholarship
GBP 5,000 tuition fee discount (first year)Available to students progressing from LSBU on-campus pathway programmes into full degree study, offering a tuition fee discount for the first year of undergraduate study.
LSBU Global Partner Scholarship
GBP 5,000 tuition fee discountDesigned to recognise and reward students from LSBU's valued Transnational Education (TNE) partners. Contact Uni4Edu to check your eligibility.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
There is currently a national shortage of professional planners in the UK, with strong demand from both the public and private sectors. Employment prospects are particularly strong in London and the South East of England, and there is also growing international demand for qualified planners as the world addresses urbanisation, climate change, and population growth.
Potential Career Roles
Typical Employer Types
Rankings and Recognition
London South Bank University has demonstrated consistent performance across major international and national ranking systems. The university is particularly recognised for its social inclusion efforts and career-focused teaching, and its planning school is one of the most established in the UK.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Town and Country Planning | Complete University Guide | Top London Modern University for Student Satisfaction |
| Planning (Urban, Rural and Regional) | National Student Survey | #1 in London for Overall Satisfaction |
| Social Inclusion | Daily Mail University Guide | University of the Year 2025 |
| Planning Education Heritage | RTPI Accreditation | Second Oldest Planning School in the UK (50+ years accredited) |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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