I am currently working as a Graduate Planner at a planning consultancy in England, where I support planning projects for local authorities. My role involves working with planning policy, spatial analysis, evidence-base and wide range of task within the UK planning system. Before joining the MSc Global Urban Development and Planning at The University of Manchester, I completed my undergraduate degree in Urban and Regional Planning in India. I also gained around 1.5 years of professional experience working closely with local authorities in India, where I was primarily involved in spatial planning, policy research, and digital planning initiatives. Through this academic and professional exposure, my interest in planning deepened significantly. However, rather than specialising in a single planning system, I wanted to strengthen my understanding of planning in a way that would allow me to work across different geographical and institutional contexts.

I chose this programme because it offered exactly what I was looking for: a global, flexible, and systems-agnostic approach to planning. The wide range of optional modules allowed me to tailor my learning to my interests, particularly in areas that are relevant across planning systems rather than being country specific. The University of Manchester also stood out for its academic reputation, extensive resources, and the opportunity to learn from highly qualified academics and researchers who share similar interests in sustainability, policy, and innovation in planning.

One of the most meaningful parts of my time at the university was being part of a diverse yet close-knit community. Learning alongside people from different backgrounds helped me grow both personally and professionally. The university’s resources were exceptional. From its extensive library to services supporting mental and physical wellbeing, as well as dedicated career support. Making full use of these facilities played an important role in preparing me to transition into a professional environment that was very different from what I was familiar with in India.

I carefully selected modules that are universally relevant across different planning environments, rather than being tied to a single planning system. As the course is partially RTPI-accredited (Royal Town Planning Institute), I also ensured that my module choices allowed me to gain full accreditation towards my RTPI membership. My interest in digital planning was further strengthened during the programme, helping me explore how governments across the world are using technology and data-driven approaches to improve planning outcomes. This perspective has been particularly valuable in understanding current and future directions in professional planning practice.

Manchester is a culturally rich, diverse, and welcoming city, making it an excellent place to study and live. The variety of courses and opportunities offered by the university allows students to build connections that last a lifetime- whether they choose to continue working in the UK, return to their home country, or pursue opportunities elsewhere in the world. My advice to future students would be to fully engage with everything the university offers, both academically and beyond the classroom. The course does not just help you become a planner it helps you develop the mindset to create better, more inclusive spaces and contribute positively to the world.

Written by: Sweta Soren

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