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M-PLAN in Transport Planning at School of Planning and Architecture, New Delhi
Delhi, Delhi
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About the Specialization
What is Transport Planning at School of Planning and Architecture, New Delhi Delhi?
This Transport Planning program at School of Planning and Architecture, New Delhi, focuses on developing comprehensive solutions for urban and regional mobility challenges. Given India''''s rapid urbanization, the program addresses critical issues like traffic congestion, sustainable public transport, and integrated land-use planning. It equips students with analytical tools and policy frameworks crucial for navigating the complex Indian transport sector.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with backgrounds in Civil Engineering, Architecture, Planning, or related disciplines seeking entry into the transport sector. It also caters to working professionals in municipal bodies, consulting firms, or public transport agencies looking to upskill in advanced planning methodologies and policy analysis to address evolving urban mobility needs.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse India-specific career paths in urban development authorities, government transport departments, infrastructure consulting firms, and public transport corporations. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 4-7 LPA, with experienced professionals earning INR 10-25+ LPA. The program aligns with industry demand for expertise in smart cities, sustainable transport, and logistics planning.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Planning & Transport Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to thoroughly understand the theoretical foundations of planning, statistics, and transport principles. Engage actively in MPT 105 Transport Planning Studio by visiting study areas, conducting preliminary observations, and practicing report writing.
Tools & Resources
Textbooks on Urban Planning, Traffic Engineering, Statistical software (e.g., R, SPSS) tutorials, Field visits to understand urban transport infrastructure
Career Connection
A strong grasp of fundamentals is crucial for solving real-world transport problems and forms the basis for advanced subjects, enabling better performance in internships and entry-level roles.
Build Data Analysis & GIS Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on developing proficiency in data collection, statistical analysis (MPT 103), and Geographic Information Systems (MPT 205). Utilize lab sessions to gain hands-on experience with software and apply concepts learned in theory classes to practical assignments and studio projects.
Tools & Resources
ArcGIS, QGIS tutorials, Python for data analysis, Official government transport data portals (e.g., MoRTH reports)
Career Connection
These skills are highly sought after by consulting firms, research organizations, and government agencies for data-driven planning and decision-making in India.
Network and Engage with Faculty & Peers- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in departmental seminars, discussions, and group projects. Seek guidance from faculty on challenging concepts and explore diverse perspectives from peers, fostering a collaborative learning environment and broadening your professional network.
Tools & Resources
Departmental workshops, Academic conferences (local ones), Student study groups
Career Connection
Building a strong academic and professional network early on can lead to research opportunities, project collaborations, and valuable mentorship for future career growth in India.
Intermediate Stage
Pursue Internships & Practical Projects- (Semester 3-4 (including summer breaks))
Actively seek out internships during summer breaks with transport consultancies, urban local bodies, or research institutions. Apply theoretical knowledge from subjects like Travel Demand Modelling (MPT 203) and Traffic Engineering (MPT 201) to real-world projects.
Tools & Resources
Shiksha.com, LinkedIn for internship listings, SPA''''s placement cell for opportunities, Industry reports and case studies
Career Connection
Internships provide invaluable industry exposure, build a professional portfolio, and often lead to pre-placement offers, significantly boosting employability in the Indian transport sector.
Specialize and Explore Electives- (Semester 2-3)
Strategically choose electives (MPT 206, MPT 305, MPT 306) that align with your career interests, such as Intelligent Transportation Systems or Public Transport Planning. Deep dive into these specialized areas through additional readings and minor research projects.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL courses on specific transport topics, Research papers from journals like Journal of Transport Geography, Industry whitepapers
Career Connection
Specialization enhances your value proposition to employers, showcasing focused expertise in high-demand areas within India''''s evolving transport landscape, especially in smart cities initiatives.
Participate in Competitions & Workshops- (Semester 2-3)
Engage in transport planning case study competitions, hackathons, or workshops organized by professional bodies like the Institute of Urban Transport (India) or local planning forums. These provide opportunities to apply skills and gain recognition.
Tools & Resources
Student chapters of professional organizations, University notice boards for event announcements, Online challenge platforms
Career Connection
Such participation builds problem-solving skills, enhances resume visibility, and demonstrates initiative, making you a more attractive candidate for leading roles in Indian urban development.
Advanced Stage
Initiate & Execute a High-Quality Thesis- (Semester 3-4)
Select a relevant research topic for your MPT 401 Thesis that addresses a contemporary transport challenge in India. Work closely with your supervisor, meticulously gather and analyze data, and produce a well-researched, impactful document.
Tools & Resources
Research methodologies textbooks, Statistical software (e.g., Stata, Python), Access to relevant databases and government reports
Career Connection
A strong thesis demonstrates critical thinking and research capabilities, which are highly valued in academic positions, policy-making roles, and advanced R&D departments of consultancies.
Refine Presentation & Communication Skills- (Semester 3-4)
Practice presenting your studio projects, seminar reports, and thesis findings effectively. Seek feedback on your communication clarity and visual aids. Strong communication is key for project management and client interaction.
Tools & Resources
Toastmasters International (if available), University communication workshops, Peer review sessions
Career Connection
Excellent communication skills are paramount for leadership roles, public speaking engagements, and effectively conveying complex planning proposals to diverse stakeholders in India.
Engage in Professional Certifications & Placement Prep- (Semester 4)
Consider certifications in areas like project management (PMP), data analytics, or specific transport software if they align with your career goals. Actively engage with the placement cell, prepare for interviews, and tailor your resume to specific job roles.
Tools & Resources
Online certification platforms (Coursera, edX), Placement workshops by SPA, Mock interview sessions
Career Connection
Professional certifications enhance your marketability, while rigorous placement preparation ensures you are job-ready for the competitive Indian job market in transport planning and infrastructure.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor''''s Degree in Planning/Architecture/Civil Engineering/Architectural Engineering/Municipal Engineering/Environmental Engineering/Transportation Engineering or Master''''s Degree in Geography/Economics/Sociology/Statistics from a recognized Indian University or equivalent, with a minimum of 55% marks or equivalent CGPA. (Based on M.Plan Admissions 2023-24 official brochure)
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 88 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 50%, External: 50%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MPT 101 | Planning Theories and Techniques | Core | 4 | Urbanization and Planning Theories, Planning Process and Techniques, Planning Legislation and Governance, Planning and Development Control, Planning Ethics and Professional Practice |
| MPT 102 | Fundamentals of Transport Planning | Core | 4 | Transport Systems and Urban Development, Principles of Transport Planning, Travel Demand Characteristics, Transport Surveys and Data Collection, Transport Problems and Policies |
| MPT 103 | Statistics for Transport Planning | Core | 3 | Data Collection and Representation, Probability and Distributions, Hypothesis Testing, Regression and Correlation Analysis, Statistical Software Applications |
| MPT 104 | Transport Geography | Core | 3 | Spatial Dimensions of Transport, Transport Networks and Accessibility, Transport and Regional Development, Global Transport Systems, Environmental Impacts of Transport |
| MPT 105 | Transport Planning Studio | Core (Studio) | 6 | Urban Transport Problem Identification, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Transport Network Planning, Traffic Management Schemes, Project Report Preparation and Presentation |
| MPT 106 | Urban and Regional Planning - I | Core | 4 | Concepts of Urban and Regional Planning, Theories of Urban Structure and Growth, Planning Principles and Goals, Sustainable Urban Development, Indian Urbanization Trends and Challenges |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MPT 201 | Traffic Engineering and Management | Core | 4 | Traffic Flow Characteristics, Traffic Capacity Analysis, Traffic Control Devices and Signals, Road Safety Audits, Traffic Management Strategies |
| MPT 202 | Transport and Environment | Core | 4 | Environmental Impacts of Transport, Air and Noise Pollution from Transport, Climate Change and Transport Sector, Sustainable Transport Solutions, Environmental Impact Assessment Methods |
| MPT 203 | Travel Demand Modelling | Core | 4 | Travel Demand Forecasting Process, Trip Generation Models, Trip Distribution Models, Mode Choice Models, Traffic Assignment Models |
| MPT 204 | Transport Economics | Core | 3 | Economic Principles in Transport, Cost Benefit Analysis of Transport Projects, Transport Pricing and Financing, Public Private Partnerships in Transport, Transport Sector Reforms and Policy |
| MPT 205 | Transport Planning Techniques Lab | Core (Lab) | 6 | GIS in Transport Planning Applications, Remote Sensing Applications, Traffic Survey Techniques and Data Collection, Data Processing and Analysis using Software, Traffic Simulation Software Usage |
| MPT 206 | Elective-I (Choice of MPT 206 A, B, C, D) | Elective | 3 | Regional Transportation Planning, Logistics and Freight Transportation, Public Transport Planning, Urban and Regional Planning - II |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MPT 301 | Transport Infrastructure Design and Planning | Core | 4 | Geometric Design of Roads and Highways, Highway Capacity and Level of Service, Intersection Design and Control, Pedestrian and Bicycle Facilities Planning, Parking Planning and Management |
| MPT 302 | Urban Mobility and Public Policy | Core | 4 | Urbanization and Mobility Challenges, Transport Policy Frameworks, Land Use-Transport Integration, Sustainable Urban Mobility Planning, Institutional Framework for Transport |
| MPT 303 | Seminar | Core | 2 | Research Methodology and Problem Formulation, Literature Review and Critical Analysis, Academic Writing and Presentation Skills, Data Interpretation and Discussion, Ethical Considerations in Research |
| MPT 304 | Planning and Design of Transport Facilities Studio | Core (Studio) | 8 | Site Analysis and Design Brief Formulation, Terminal Design (Bus/Rail/Intermodal), Public Transport Facilities Planning, Traffic Calming and Area Management, Feasibility Study and Project Implementation |
| MPT 305 | Elective-II (Choice of MPT 305 A, B, C, D) | Elective | 3 | Road Safety Planning and Management, Non-Motorized Transport Planning, Disaster Management in Transport, Aviation and Airport Planning |
| MPT 306 | Elective-III (Choice of MPT 306 A, B, C, D) | Elective | 3 | Intelligent Transportation Systems, Asset Management in Transport, PPP in Transport Infrastructure, Transport Project Appraisal |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MPT 401 | Thesis | Core (Project) | 16 | Research Problem Formulation, Methodology Development and Data Collection, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Thesis Report Writing, Viva Voce and Presentation |
