Planning History and Theory (GEPL121)

Designing and managing towns and cities that are sustainable, functional and resilient has never been more important.

In this unit, students are introduced to the historical and theoretical foundations of urban and regional planning by tracing how the field has evolved and how it continues to respond to contemporary challenges. The emergence of planning is explored through the long arc of urban change, paying particular attention to the development of planning ideas in both Australian and international contexts.

Students also engage with recent thinking about the roles, responsibilities and influence of planning as a profession, and examine the key issues shaping planning practice today.

This unit provides essential grounding for building a confident, future‑focused career in planning and urban design.