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M-PLAN in Town And Country Planning at COEP Technological University
Pune, Maharashtra
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About the Specialization
What is Town and Country Planning at COEP Technological University Pune?
This M.Plan (Town and Country Planning) program at COEP Technological University focuses on developing skilled professionals capable of designing, managing, and implementing sustainable urban and regional development strategies. It emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, integrating social, economic, environmental, and technological aspects relevant to India''''s rapid urbanization challenges. The program aims to address critical issues like housing, infrastructure, environmental sustainability, and governance in the Indian context.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for civil engineering, architecture, or planning graduates seeking specialized expertise in urban and regional development. It also caters to working professionals in government bodies, consulting firms, or NGOs looking to enhance their strategic planning and management skills for complex urban projects. Fresh graduates aspiring to shape India''''s future cities and regions, or those with a keen interest in policy formulation and spatial development, will find this program highly beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as Urban Planners, Regional Planners, Project Managers, GIS Specialists, and Development Consultants. Opportunities exist in government departments (e.g., Urban Development Authorities, Municipal Corporations), private real estate and infrastructure firms, international development agencies, and research organizations. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 4-7 LPA, with experienced professionals earning INR 10-25+ LPA, reflecting the growing demand for qualified planners.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Foundational Planning Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with core planning theories, historical contexts, and socio-economic principles. Form study groups to discuss complex topics like urban informal sectors and sustainable development, using case studies relevant to Indian cities. Regularly attend guest lectures by practicing planners to bridge theory and practice.
Tools & Resources
Recommended textbooks, COEP library resources, NPTEL courses on urban planning, Local planning journals
Career Connection
A strong theoretical base is crucial for analytical thinking and problem-solving, foundational for roles in planning policy and research.
Master GIS and Data Analysis Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on developing proficiency in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and statistical tools, which are indispensable for spatial analysis and data-driven planning. Undertake mini-projects using open-source GIS software (QGIS) and real Indian city data.
Tools & Resources
QGIS, ArcGIS (if available), R/Python for spatial analysis, Census of India data, Local municipal data portals
Career Connection
GIS proficiency is a highly sought-after skill for planning consultants, urban analysts, and government planning departments.
Engage in Field Studies and Local Context Observation- (Semester 1-2)
Participate enthusiastically in all organized field visits to slums, infrastructure projects, and heritage sites within Pune and surrounding regions. Beyond organized trips, independently observe local urban challenges, public spaces, and community dynamics to develop a keen understanding of India''''s planning realities.
Tools & Resources
Field diaries, Local planning reports, Google Earth, Discussions with local community leaders
Career Connection
Develops practical understanding and empathy for urban issues, essential for effective and inclusive planning solutions.
Intermediate Stage
Specialize Through Electives and Seminar- (Semester 3)
Carefully choose electives that align with your career interests (e.g., Advanced GIS, Urban Regeneration, Smart Cities). Use the Seminar course to delve deep into a specific area of planning, conducting thorough literature reviews and presenting findings to faculty and peers.
Tools & Resources
Research papers, Academic databases (JSTOR, Scopus), Professional planning conferences
Career Connection
Specialization enhances employability in niche planning sectors and builds a strong profile for dissertation work and future roles.
Seek Industry-Relevant Internships- (Semester 3 (or during formal internship in Semester 4))
Actively search for and secure internships with reputed urban planning consultancies, government planning bodies (like local municipal corporations, urban development authorities), or real estate developers. Focus on gaining hands-on experience in plan preparation, data analysis, or project management.
Tools & Resources
COEP placement cell, LinkedIn, Professional networking, Industry directories
Career Connection
Internships provide crucial practical experience, industry contacts, and often lead to pre-placement offers in India.
Develop Urban Design and Environmental Planning Aptitude- (Semester 3)
Focus on integrating urban design principles with environmental planning during studio projects and coursework. Pay attention to how green infrastructure, sustainable materials, and heritage conservation contribute to livable and resilient Indian cities.
Tools & Resources
Urban design guidelines, Environmental policies (e.g., EIA norms in India), Architectural and planning software (AutoCAD, SketchUp)
Career Connection
Positions in urban conservation, environmental planning, and sustainable infrastructure development are growing in India.
Advanced Stage
Excel in Dissertation and Research- (Semester 4)
Devote significant effort to your dissertation, choosing a research topic with real-world implications for Indian urban challenges. Engage closely with your supervisor, conduct rigorous data analysis, and refine your thesis for publication or presentation at conferences.
Tools & Resources
Statistical software (SPSS, R), Academic writing guides, Plagiarism checkers, COEP research support
Career Connection
A strong dissertation showcases advanced research skills, critical thinking, and contributes to academic or policy-oriented roles.
Network Professionally and Attend Workshops- (Semester 4)
Actively participate in planning workshops, seminars, and conferences organized by professional bodies like ITPI (Institute of Town Planners, India). Network with senior planners, government officials, and potential employers to explore career opportunities and industry trends.
Tools & Resources
ITPI membership, LinkedIn, Conference calendars, COEP alumni network
Career Connection
Builds a professional network, opens doors to job opportunities, and provides insights into career paths and industry needs.
Refine Portfolio and Interview Skills- (Semester 4)
Systematically compile all your studio projects, research papers, and internship reports into a professional portfolio. Practice interview techniques, focusing on articulating your planning knowledge, project experiences, and problem-solving abilities relevant to the Indian context.
Tools & Resources
Online portfolio platforms, Mock interviews, COEP placement cell workshops, Resume builders
Career Connection
A well-curated portfolio and strong interview skills are critical for securing desirable positions in both public and private planning sectors.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor''''s Degree in Civil Engineering, Architecture, Urban and Regional Planning, or equivalent, with at least 50% aggregate marks (45% for backward class candidates from Maharashtra State). GATE qualified candidates are preferred for admission.
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 84 Credits
Assessment: Internal: undefined, External: undefined
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TP 101 | History of Human Settlements and Planning | Core | 3 | Evolution of Settlements, Ancient and Medieval Towns, Industrial Revolution Impact, Garden City Movement, New Towns Concepts, Planning Concepts and Philosophies |
| TP 102 | Planning Theory and Techniques | Core | 3 | Planning Concepts and Scope, Rational Comprehensive Planning, Advocacy and Incremental Planning, Communicative and Participatory Planning, Strategic Planning, Planning Techniques and Tools |
| TP 103 | Socio Economic Basis of Planning | Core | 3 | Demography and Population Dynamics, Social Structure and Urbanization, Economic Base Theories, Regional Economic Development, Poverty and Inequality in Urban Areas, Social Infrastructure Planning |
| TP 104 | Planning for Informal Sector | Core | 3 | Concept of Urban Informal Sector, Characteristics and Dynamics, Role in Urban Economy, Policy Approaches to Informal Sector, Slums and Squatter Settlements, Micro-enterprise Development |
| TP 105 | Planning Studio – I (Development Plan Studies) | Studio | 4 | Regional Planning Studies, Planning Surveys and Data Collection, Base Map Preparation, Spatial Analysis Techniques, Development Plan Formulation, Report Writing and Presentation |
| TP 106 | Sustainable Development | Core | 3 | Concept of Sustainable Development, Environmental Challenges, Climate Change and Urban Areas, Green Infrastructure, Renewable Energy Systems, Sustainable Urbanism Principles |
| TP 107 | Research Methodology in Planning | Core | 3 | Research Design and Ethics, Data Collection Methods, Sampling Techniques, Statistical Analysis for Planners, Hypothesis Testing, Report Writing and Referencing |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TP 201 | Urban Management and Finance | Core | 3 | Urban Governance Structures, Municipal Finance and Budgeting, Property Taxation and Revenue, Public-Private Partnerships in Urban Projects, Urban Infrastructure Financing, Project Management and Evaluation |
| TP 202 | Land Use Planning and Legislation | Core | 3 | Land Use Theories and Models, Zoning Regulations, Master Plans and Development Control, Land Acquisition and Rehabilitation, Environmental Laws and Regulations, Property Rights and Tenures |
| TP 203 | Infrastructure Planning | Core | 3 | Urban Infrastructure Systems, Water Supply and Sanitation, Solid Waste Management, Power and Energy Infrastructure, Communication Networks, Infrastructure Project Planning |
| TP 204 | Housing and Community Planning | Core | 3 | Housing Typologies and Forms, Housing Demand and Supply Analysis, Housing Affordability and Policy, Slum Upgrading and Resettlement, Community Participation in Housing, Urban Renewal and Redevelopment |
| TP 205 | Planning Studio – II (Regional Plan Studies) | Studio | 4 | Regional Delineation and Hierarchy, Resource Assessment and Management, Regional Economic Analysis, Regional Development Strategies, Regional Plan Preparation, Policy Implementation Frameworks |
| TP 206 | Transport Planning | Core | 3 | Transportation Modes and Systems, Traffic Surveys and Analysis, Trip Generation and Distribution, Modal Split and Traffic Assignment, Traffic Management Techniques, Public Transport and Sustainable Mobility |
| TP 207 | Geographic Information Systems for Planners | Core | 3 | GIS Fundamentals and Components, Spatial Data Models, Mapping and Georeferencing, Spatial Analysis Techniques, Remote Sensing Basics, GIS Applications in Urban Planning |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TP 301 | Urban Design and Conservation | Core | 3 | Urban Form and Structure, Public Space Design, Street Design and Elements, Urban Aesthetics and Imageability, Historic Preservation Principles, Conservation Strategies and Heritage Zones |
| TP 302 | Urban Environmental Planning | Core | 3 | Urban Ecology and Ecosystems, Pollution Control Strategies, Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), Disaster Management in Urban Areas, Green Infrastructure Planning, Climate Resilience and Adaptation |
| TP 303 (A) | Elective – I (Advanced GIS for Planning) | Elective | 4 | Advanced GIS Tools and Functions, Network Analysis in GIS, Spatial Modeling and Simulation, 3D GIS and Visualization, Geo-Databases and Management, Web GIS and Applications |
| TP 304 | Seminar | Project | 2 | Literature Review and Synthesis, Research Problem Identification, Presentation Skills Development, Academic Communication, Critical Analysis of Planning Issues, Public Speaking and Defense |
| TP 305 | Dissertation – I | Project | 8 | Problem Statement Formulation, Detailed Literature Review, Research Questions and Objectives, Methodology Design, Data Collection Plan, Interim Report Preparation |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TP 401 (A) | Elective – II (Smart Cities and Urban Governance) | Elective | 4 | Smart City Concepts and Frameworks, ICT in Urban Governance, Smart Infrastructure Components, Data Analytics for Urban Planning, Citizen Engagement and E-governance, Internet of Things (IoT) in Cities |
| TP 402 | Dissertation – II | Project | 10 | Data Analysis and Interpretation, Results and Findings Discussion, Conclusion and Recommendations, Thesis Writing and Formatting, Presentation of Research, Viva-Voce Examination |
| TP 403 | Internship | Project | 6 | Practical Exposure to Planning Projects, Application of Theoretical Knowledge, Professional Skill Development, Industry Practices and Challenges, Field Experience and Problem Solving, Internship Report Preparation |
