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M-TECH in Urban Planning at Maulana Azad National Institute of Technology Bhopal
Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Urban Planning at Maulana Azad National Institute of Technology Bhopal Bhopal?
This Urban Planning program at MANIT Bhopal focuses on equipping professionals with advanced knowledge and skills to address complex urban challenges. With India experiencing rapid urbanization, there is a critical demand for planners who can design sustainable, inclusive, and resilient cities. This program stands out by integrating theoretical foundations with practical studio-based learning, emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches relevant to the Indian context.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for architecture, civil engineering, or planning graduates seeking entry into the urban development sector. It also caters to working professionals in municipal bodies, government planning agencies, or real estate firms looking to upskill and enhance their strategic planning capabilities. The curriculum is designed for individuals passionate about shaping the future of Indian cities.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse India-specific career paths, including roles in urban local bodies, state town planning departments, housing boards, smart city project management units, and private consulting firms. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 4-7 lakhs per annum, with experienced professionals earning significantly more. The program aligns with professional certifications from institutes like the ITPI, fostering continuous growth.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Planning Concepts- (undefined)
Focus on understanding fundamental theories of urban and regional planning, socio-economic aspects, and basic planning techniques. Attend all lectures, participate in discussions, and thoroughly review case studies of Indian cities. Form study groups to discuss complex urban issues and diverse planning approaches.
Tools & Resources
Official textbooks, ITPI journals, Government of India planning reports, Lecture notes, Peer study groups
Career Connection
A strong theoretical foundation is crucial for analytical thinking and problem-solving, which are highly valued in entry-level planning roles in municipal corporations and state planning boards.
Excel in Planning Studio - I- (undefined)
Dedicate significant time to studio work, applying theoretical knowledge to practical projects like site analysis, land use planning, and zoning. Seek regular feedback from faculty, engage in iterative design processes, and develop proficiency in drafting and presentation. Utilize CAD software and GIS basics learned in parallel courses.
Tools & Resources
AutoCAD, ArcGIS/QGIS, SketchUp, Manual drafting tools, Case studies of urban development projects
Career Connection
Studio skills are directly transferable to roles in urban development authorities and planning consultancies, where plan preparation and visualization are core job functions.
Build Research and Data Analysis Skills- (undefined)
Pay close attention to Research Methodology and Data Analysis. Practice statistical software, develop clear research questions, and understand different data collection methods. This prepares for the dissertation and for evidence-based planning. Utilize the campus library''''s research databases.
Tools & Resources
SPSS, R, Excel, MANIT Library resources, NPTEL courses on research methods
Career Connection
Strong research and data analysis skills are essential for policy formulation, urban analytics, and roles in research institutions or government think tanks focused on urban affairs.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Applied Projects & Internships- (undefined)
Actively seek internships during summer breaks with government bodies like Smart City SPVs, municipal corporations, or reputable planning consultancies. Apply learnings from Urban Infrastructure, Housing, and Planning Legislations in real-world scenarios. Participate in local planning workshops or seminars in Bhopal.
Tools & Resources
MANIT Placement Cell, LinkedIn, Government job portals, Networking with alumni
Career Connection
Practical exposure significantly enhances employability by providing hands-on experience and valuable industry contacts, making you job-ready for roles requiring immediate application of skills.
Specialize through Electives and Advanced Techniques- (undefined)
Strategically choose electives like Urban Design, Remote Sensing/GIS, or Disaster Management based on career interests. Deep dive into advanced planning techniques and modeling by undertaking mini-projects or extended assignments. Explore advanced GIS software functionalities.
Tools & Resources
Advanced GIS software (e.g., ArcGIS Pro), ENVI/ERDAS Imagine, Urban modeling software (e.g., UrbanSim), Specialized online courses
Career Connection
Specialized knowledge makes you a more attractive candidate for niche roles in urban analytics, smart city planning, environmental planning, or disaster risk reduction within urban contexts.
Network and Participate in Competitions- (undefined)
Attend conferences, workshops, and guest lectures to network with leading urban planners and policymakers in India. Participate in planning competitions or hackathons focused on urban challenges. Join student chapters of professional bodies like the Institute of Town Planners, India (ITPI).
Tools & Resources
ITPI student membership, National/International urban planning conferences, MANIT departmental events
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to job opportunities and mentorship. Competition participation hones problem-solving skills and builds a portfolio, making you stand out to potential employers.
Advanced Stage
Undertake Impactful Dissertation Research- (undefined)
Select a relevant and impactful dissertation topic, ideally linked to a current urban challenge in India or a local issue in Bhopal. Ensure a robust methodology, conduct thorough data collection and analysis, and aim for publishable quality research. Seek guidance from multiple faculty mentors.
Tools & Resources
Research papers and journals, Statistical software, Field surveys, Faculty mentors, Plagiarism checking tools
Career Connection
A strong dissertation demonstrates advanced research capabilities, critical thinking, and a deep understanding of a specific urban issue, which is highly valued for research roles, policy analysis, and Ph.D. aspirations.
Refine Presentation and Communication Skills- (undefined)
Actively prepare for dissertation defense and seminar presentations, focusing on clear communication of complex ideas, visual aids, and engaging delivery. Practice public speaking and articulate planning proposals concisely. Attend workshops on professional communication.
Tools & Resources
PowerPoint/Google Slides, Canva, TED Talks (for inspiration), Public speaking clubs, Mock presentations
Career Connection
Excellent communication skills are paramount for planners, enabling effective collaboration with stakeholders, presenting plans to authorities, and advocating for urban policies in various professional settings.
Strategize for Placements and Career Launch- (undefined)
Work closely with the MANIT placement cell to prepare a compelling CV and portfolio showcasing studio projects, research, and internship experiences. Practice interview skills, including technical questions related to planning acts, GIS, and urban policies. Research potential employers thoroughly.
Tools & Resources
MANIT Placement Cell resources, Resume builders, Portfolio websites, Mock interviews, Company research platforms
Career Connection
Strategic placement preparation ensures a smooth transition into the professional world, securing desirable roles in government, private consultancies, or NGOs dedicated to urban development and planning.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor''''s degree in Architecture, Planning, Civil Engineering, or allied disciplines with a minimum of 60% marks or 6.5 CGPA (on a 10-point scale) for General/OBC and 55% or 6.0 CGPA for SC/ST/PwD candidates. A valid GATE score is desirable for fellowship.
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 78 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MUPC-101 | History, Theory and Principles of Urban and Regional Planning | Core | 4 | Evolution of Planning Thought, Planning Theories and Concepts, Principles of Urban Planning, Regional Planning Concepts, Urbanization in India |
| MUPC-102 | Planning Techniques and GIS | Core | 4 | Data Collection and Analysis Methods, Spatial Analysis Techniques, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Fundamentals, Remote Sensing Applications, Statistical Software for Planning |
| MUPC-103 | Socio Economic and Environmental Aspects of Urban Planning | Core | 4 | Socio-cultural Dimensions of Planning, Urban Economics and Development, Environmental Impact Assessment, Sustainable Urban Development, Climate Change and Urban Areas |
| MUPC-104 | Planning Studio - I | Core | 6 | Site Analysis and Development Planning, Land Use Planning and Zoning, Urban Design Principles, Preparation of Development Plans, Mapping and Visualization Techniques |
| MUPC-105 | Research Methodology and Data Analysis | Core | 3 | Research Design and Types, Sampling Methods and Data Collection, Statistical Analysis for Planning, Hypothesis Testing and Interpretation, Report Writing and Presentation |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MUPC-201 | Urban Infrastructure and Services | Core | 4 | Water Supply and Sanitation Systems, Solid Waste Management, Transportation Planning Principles, Power and Energy Infrastructure, Smart Infrastructure Concepts |
| MUPC-202 | Planning Legislations, Finance and Project Management | Core | 4 | Town Planning Acts and Regulations, Land Acquisition Policies, Urban Local Body Finance, Project Appraisal and Implementation, Public-Private Partnerships in Planning |
| MUPC-203 | Housing and Community Planning | Core | 4 | Housing Typologies and Affordability, Slum Improvement and Resettlement, Community Participation in Planning, Housing Policies in India, Urban Poverty and Social Housing |
| MUPC-204 | Planning Studio - II | Core | 6 | Preparation of Master Plans, Regional Development Strategies, Sectoral Planning Studies, Infrastructure Planning Exercises, Policy Formulation and Impact Assessment |
| MUP-205 | Urban Design | Elective – I | 3 | Elements of Urban Form, Public Space Design, Streetscape and Pedestrian Environment, Conservation and Revitalization, Aesthetics in Urban Planning |
| MUP-206 | Urban Governance and Management | Elective – I | 3 | Local Self-Governance in India, Municipal Administration and Functions, Participatory Planning Processes, Smart City Initiatives, Urban Reforms and E-Governance |
| MUP-207 | Landscape Planning and Design | Elective – I | 3 | Ecological Principles in Landscape, Site Planning and Grading, Green Infrastructure, Open Space Systems, Water Sensitive Urban Design |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MUPC-301 | Advanced Planning Techniques and Modelling | Core | 4 | Decision Support Systems, Urban Simulation Models, Spatial Econometrics, Forecasting Techniques, Big Data Analytics in Planning |
| MUP-302 | Remote Sensing and GIS Applications in Planning | Elective – II | 3 | Image Processing and Interpretation, Spatial Database Management, Geodatabases and Data Modeling, Web GIS and Mobile GIS, Satellite Imagery Analysis |
| MUP-303 | Disaster Management and Resilient Cities | Elective – II | 3 | Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment, Disaster Mitigation and Preparedness, Climate Change Adaptation, Urban Resilience Strategies, Post-Disaster Reconstruction |
| MUP-304 | Transportation Planning and Management | Elective – II | 3 | Traffic Surveys and Analysis, Travel Demand Modeling, Public Transportation Systems, Sustainable Transport Solutions, Road Safety and Management |
| MUP-305 | Heritage Conservation and Management | Elective – III | 3 | Cultural Heritage and Urban Identity, Conservation Policies and Legislations, Adaptive Reuse of Heritage Buildings, Heritage Tourism Development, Site Management and Interpretation |
| MUP-306 | Metropolitan Planning and Development | Elective – III | 3 | Peri-Urban Development Issues, Regional Economic Development, Growth Management Strategies, Counter-Magnets and Satellite Towns, Metropolitan Governance Structures |
| MUP-307 | Rural Planning and Development | Elective – III | 3 | Rural-Urban Linkages, Agricultural and Livelihood Planning, Rural Infrastructure Development, Poverty Alleviation Programs, Integrated Rural Development |
| MUPC-308 | Seminar | Core | 2 | Academic Presentation Skills, Literature Review and Critique, Research Topic Formulation, Public Speaking and Discourse, Peer Feedback and Improvement |
| MUPP-301 | Dissertation / Project Work (Part I) | Core | 6 | Problem Identification and Scoping, Literature Review and Gaps, Methodology Design and Framework, Data Collection Strategy, Interim Report Preparation |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MUPP-401 | Dissertation / Project Work (Part II) | Core | 18 | In-depth Data Analysis, Drawing Conclusions and Recommendations, Thesis Writing and Structuring, Oral Presentation and Defense, Research Ethics and Plagiarism |
