Having previously studied History at Lancaster University, I was at a crossroads come graduation. I wanted to start developing towards a career, but I had trouble getting anywhere with my bachelor’s degree. I looked back at what I had enjoyed studying the most; this was my dissertation, focusing on how towns and villages in my home county of Cumbria had developed and evolved over time. My research had led me to become increasingly interested in the Royal Society of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), which in turn led me to discover the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) and the MSc Planning degree at the University of Manchester. I was originally sceptical about applying for this degree, as I did not believe history to be sufficiently related, as I thoguht of planning as being more of a ‘human geography’ orientated degree, but, having spoken to the admissions team, they assured me that I was suitable for the course. 

When deciding where to study, I wanted to continue stay in the North of England. Having only ever been to Manchester to visit the Christmas Markets, I had no real knowledge of the wider city before I visited Oxford Road. Walking up towards The University from the station was simple, and the buildings lining this road were large and historic (a win in my book!). A walk into the city centre and around the Arndale illustrated how the city continually drives itself forward, and the amount of building developments around the city made it look an attractive place to study planning. 

Looking on the website also encouraged me to study here; the overview of all the available modules (such as policy, theory, sustainability, and placement modules) and course outlines gave me a taste of what I would be studying before applying. The degree itself focuses on coursework, particularly group projects and mock planning inquiry situations, which help develop the communication, teamwork, and analytical skills needed in the workplace. On top of this, Manchester’s MSc Planning course is accredited by both the RTPI and RICS, which both encourage development within the field into the workplace, where I can work towards being accredited, enhancing future career prospects. 

I was attracted to the course as it gives me the opportunity to gain a wide variety of skills relating to my prospects of becoming a town planner. One module focusing on digital spatial planning enables the use of a variety of software to produce maps and illustrations of large amounts of data, a skill I had never even thought I would need before taking this module. As well, the Manchester careers service holds events such as the SEED networking event, which encourages the practice of networking with businesses and recruiters; Manchester has a strong link to employment opportunities post-graduation. 

Having been here for a few months now, Manchester was a great choice. I could not imagine studying planning anywhere else than within this vibrant, developing city. During ‘freshers’ week’ I visited the freshers fair, got loads of free things, and joined the recreational swimming team. Within the course, I have also made an amazing group of friends. We regularly go out and explore the city and its various attractions, restaurants and parks which has really opened my eyes towards Manchester’s wider history and the role The University has continually had in this. 

Overall, I chose to study planning at The University of Manchester due to the attractiveness of the city and community, the accreditation of the course, and the available skills and development opportunities available through The University.  

Written by Isaac, current MSc Planning student.

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