Transport Planning MSc

Course overview

Please note: applications for this course open on the 1^st October 2024.

Our Transport Planning MSc will equip you with the knowledge and planning techniques to help you develop transport networks and systems that are founded on robust evidence, sustainable and equitable social principles, state-of-the-art modelling, accurate data analysis, and a profound understanding of travel behaviour and importance for transport planning. You’ll also develop the tools to help address global challenges such as equitable development and climate change mitigation and reduction through the development of safe and efficient city transport networks and mass public transport.

Working with leading researchers at Institute of Transport Studies you’ll learn about policy, travel behaviour, modelling, data analysis, land use planning, and public transport planning and management using research and evidence from around the world. The course also addresses the multi-disciplinary nature of transport – enabling you to make effective decisions for clients, employers and society.

Studying in the Institute of Transport Studies at Leeds will give you a unique head start in your career in transport. The course has been designed following close consultation with industry practices and is shaped by our impactful and topical research, delivered by leading researchers with an international reputation – so you’ll be learning the most up-to-date and relevant information throughout the course.

Why study at Leeds:

• Our Institute for Transport Studies’ globally-renowned research conducted right here on campus feeds directly into the course, shaping your learning with the latest thinking in sustainable transport planning – and beyond.
• Advance your knowledge and skill set in critical areas of transport planning including hands-on experience in collecting and evaluating data: the key to good transport planning.
• Tailor the course to suit your career aspirations with a wide selection of optional modules in areas such as such as road safety, traffic network modelling, public transport planning, traffic management and more to refine your knowledge and specialise in topics that interest you the most.
• Build industry experience collaborating on a multi-disciplinary team project with students from other degree specialisms that focuses on a real-world transport problem posed by Leeds City Council or another organisation. You may also be able to apply for an optional industrial placement.
• Familiarise yourself with industry-standard models and techniques such as AIMSUN, VISSIM, SATURN, spatial analysis using GIS and systems dynamics.
• Experience expert theoretical and practical teaching delivered by a programme team made up of researchers and academics from the Institute for Transport Studies who have extensive expertise across a variety of transport disciplines.
• Take advantage of our close working relationships with big organisations in industry such as ARUP, AECOM and Transport for London who actively advertise and recruit directly from the Institute of Transport Studies. Many of these organisations are members of the ITS Industrial Advisory Committee who directly inform and advise on course content and priorities.
• This course offers flexible study options where you can study full-time over 12 months or part-time over 24 or 36 months.

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Course details

Throughout this course, you’ll learn about transport planning and travel behaviour by studying a range of core topics. Your studies will consider many of the key challenges currently facing transport industry professionals across the world. These will provide you with a holistic overview of transport problems and approaches to policy formulation.

You’ll also be able to choose from a wide range of optional modules. This allows you to develop more specialised skills and tailor your degree towards your preferred career interests. You'll also study our Transport Integrated Project module, which gives you an experience of a typical real-world transport project and solution design.

Your dissertation will allow you to gain a range of specialist knowledge and advanced research skills. You’ll apply these to a project chosen from a selection of topics. Some topics are suggested and supported by industry, giving you the chance to address a real-world problem and gain experience of working with industry. Your supervisor will support you throughout the process of developing your dissertation topic.

Course structure

The list shown below represents typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our terms and conditions.

Most courses consist of compulsory and optional modules. There may be some optional modules omitted below. This is because they are currently being refreshed to make sure students have the best possible experience. Before you enter each year, full details of all modules for that year will be provided.

For more information and a full list of typical modules available on this course, please read Transport Planning MSc Full Time in the course catalogue

Compulsory modules

Sustainable Spatial Planning and Analysis – 15 credits

Learn the key aspects of integrated transport and land-use planning which contribute to more sustainable outcomes. You'll develop your skills to access, analyse and display spatial data to facilitate advanced policy analysis informed by the theoretical underpinnings of sustainable land use and transport planning.

Principles of Transport Modelling – 15 credits

We will start by introducing the general concept of transport modelling to you. Including key objectives, terms and definitions in transport modelling, and briefly the basic four-stage models. You'll then examine each of the four stages of transport modelling in turn: trip generation, trip distribution. modal split, and traffic assignment. The key mathematical modelling techniques are introduced for each stage, and examples are made to illustrate the workings of these models. The second part of this module introduces you to more advanced transport modelling techniques, which provide improvements to the traditional four-stage modelling.

Understanding Travel Behaviour – 15 credits

Analyse and explore traditional and emergent thinking on travel behaviour and understanding why people travel. This module aims to equip you with the analytical skills necessary for the development and evaluation of policy and practice in the transport sector in both professional environments and higher academic studies.

Shaping Future Transport Systems – 15 credits

In the Shaping Transport Futures module, you'll understand the fundamental relationships in transport systems, their interactions with other sectors, and future opportunities and challenges. You'll also learn about interventions in managing transport systems, contrast international approaches to transport planning and management, and acquire the fundamental techniques necessary to work in interdisciplinary teams. These skills will prepare you for the Transport Integrated Project module delivered in the following semester.

Transport Data Collection and Analysis – 15 credits

Acquire the fundamental skills and knowledge of data collection and analysis in the context of transport. In this module, we will address the loop covering research questions, data requirements, data collection/generation, data analysis, and interpretation allowing you to develop a good understanding and practice for transport data collection and analysis.

Transport Integrated Project – 15 Credits

This group project lets you develop industry experience of working within the transport sector, as part of a multidisciplinary team. You’ll work alongside students from our other Masters degrees, using your different specialisms to solve a real-world transport problem posed by Leeds City Council or another relevant organisation.

You’ll gain insights into how planning, economics, environmental science, modelling and engineering can work together to develop sustainable solutions to global challenges.

Throughout the project, you’ll be advised by subject experts and will be required to write both group and individual reports. You'll also present your work as a group.

Previous projects have included:

• Designing a new park and ride site
• Designing a new train station
• Redesigning Leeds’ City Square

Transport Dissertation – 60 credits

Your dissertation gives you the ultimate opportunity to develop and apply research and/or design skills in a specialist topic within the transport discipline. You’ll complete an independent research project on a topic of your choice, develop an in-depth knowledge of your chosen subject area, and demonstrate your findings in a report.

Some topics are suggested and supported by industry, giving you the chance to address a real-world problem and gain experience working with industry. Your supervisor will support you throughout the process of developing your dissertation topic.

Optional modules

Please note: The modules listed below are indicative of typical options.

Road Safety – 15 Credits

In the Road Safety module, you'll explore the critical issues surrounding road collisions that lead to injuries and fatalities, significantly impacting both individuals and society. You'll explore the various factors linked to crash occurrences, such as human behaviour, the road environment, and vehicle types. This module focuses on identifying problems and developing solutions through policy, engineering, and evaluation, while also considering broader topics like human capacity and limitations.

Air Quality Policy Design and Evaluation – 15 credits

We'll equip you with the skills necessary to analyse air pollution data, then design and evaluate the impact of air quality policies, including mitigation options for poor indoor air quality. Practical experience of open-source innovative data analysis tools is provided, including a new open-source package – AQEval – developed and published by Institute for Transport Studies to evaluate Air Quality policies.

Railway Investment Appraisal – 15 Credits

Starting from the principles of cost-benefit analysis and Business Cases, this module covers the key methods and techniques of railway investment appraisal. It includes worked examples and case studies featuring urban, regional and high-speed rail. Recent innovations in appraisal methods are covered. The role of railways in the economy is addressed. Current major infrastructure projects are used to aid discussion. The link with project finance, and links with decision making and transport policy are considered.

Transport Investment Appraisal – 15 Credits

Starting from the principles of cost-benefit analysis and financial appraisal, the module covers the key methods and techniques of transport investment appraisal. You'll study examples and case studies from road, rail and active modes of transport.

Traffic Network Modelling – 15 Credits

This module has been designed to appeal to anyone who intends to pursue a career in Transport Planning. You'll be introduced to the main underlying principles and be given the opportunity for hands-on experience with two of the most popular types of models used to analyse road transport networks.

Global Transferability of Policies – 15 Credits

You'll critically examine the applicability of policies in different geographical and political contexts from those where they originated. This module develops your knowledge of the theories underlying the transfer of policy and the ways that such theories are frequently framed as being geographically specific.

System Dynamics: Modelling Policy – 15 Credits

This module develops an understanding of the structure and dynamics of complex systems primarily in the field of transport. You'll learn how to apply causal loop techniques enabling them to communicate ideas and model structures effectively.

Analysing Transport and Society – 15 Credits

You'll learn how to apply social analysis in practice and policy in the transport sector in both professional environments and higher academic studies. This module will provide understanding of the basis of qualitative and quantitative methods, and practical understanding of a range of research methods and evaluative techniques using lectures and practical ‘hands-on’ workshops designed to engage and stimulate learning.

Green Logistics – 15 credits

You'll gain the skills needed to work in planning, policymaking and consultancy roles in which you'll need up-to-date understanding of best practice in reducing the environmental problems associated with freight logistics and supply chain activities.

Public Transport Planning and Management – 15 credits

Gain a comprehensive understanding of the critical issues that shape the planning, management, and financing of public transport systems in both developed and developing countries. You'll take part in practical problem-solving exercises that help you understand, evaluate, apply, and communicate the core operating and economic principles of public transport planning.

Traffic Management – 15 credits

Traffic Management is the process of adjusting or adapting the use of an existing road system to meet specified objectives without resorting to substantial new road construction. The traffic management objectives have evolved reflecting the changing nature of road systems and travel patterns in the past decades. This module will equip you with knowledge of how to select, design and implement a range of appropriate measures and techniques, as well as knowledge of practical experiences for enhancing the efficiency of road transport systems for all groups of road users. In addition to UK practice, a wide range of international evidence is included to broaden the scope of module delivery.

Choice Modelling and Stated Preference Survey Design – 15 credits

Develop the essential principles and techniques of choice modelling and stated preference survey design. You'll learn how to produce insights into choice behaviour, which can guide policymakers, especially when real-choice data is scarce. This module covers a range of topics from basic to advanced techniques, involving a mix of lectures and practical sessions for you to gain hands-on experience.

Transport in Development – 15 credits

This module offers a broad overview of the role of transport mobilities in the development context. You'll explore the economic, financial, institutional, and demographic characteristics of low-income countries and their implications for transport sector policies and practices. This module also allows you to examine the interaction between development policy and transport policy, evaluating the applicability and outcomes of different policy approaches and analytical tools.

Fieldwork

At the Institute for Transport Studies, we want you to graduate with hands-on, real-world skills you can take into your career. Fieldwork gives you the chance to build those professional skills and put theory into practice – experiencing transport systems in action and meeting transport professionals who are actively working in the field.

Industrial placements

This programme gives you the opportunity to undertake a paid placement – either over four or twelve months. Our close industry links give you the platform to apply to a number of major organisations such as Network Rail and AECOM. Please note: placement opportunities are limited and therefore the application is highly competitive. Placements are not guaranteed.

Part-time study options

This course is also available to study part-time, over 24 or 36 months. Please get in touch with our admissions team to discuss part-time study options.

For more information and a full list of typical modules available on this course, please read Transport Planning MSc Part Time in the course catalogue

Learning and teaching

Postgraduate study involves a range of teaching methods, supported by independent learning. You'll learn through a variety of teaching methods such as lectures, seminars, workshops, computer exercises, practical sessions, directed reading, reflective journal, peer review, presentations, discussions, fieldwork and tutorials. You’ll also learn through independent study, allowing you to develop critical problem-solving and research skills that are relevant to a career in transport.

Throughout your degree, you'll be supported by a personal tutor who you can meet regularly to discuss any study or career questions you might have.

There is also the opportunity to apply to the Institute for Transport Studies mentorship programme, where you'll be assigned an alumni mentor who currently works in the industry. The mentorship programme is a great opportunity to receive personal career advice and develop a relationship with someone who is successful in the transport industry.

Active research environment

The Institute for Transport Studies was established as the UK’s first multidisciplinary transport department, and we continue to lead the field with our research. This means we are uniquely placed to offer masters degrees in transport planning. Our reputation allows us to invest in world-class facilities and offer a variety of specialist software tools including SATURN, DRACULA, and specialist open-source analysis packages such as OpenPave for pavement design and AQEval for tracking trends and detecting changes in air quality levels, and licensed software such as ARCADY, LINSIG for junction design. We also have a driving simulator.

Programme team

The wider programme team is made up of researchers and academics from the Institute for Transport Studies who have extensive expertise tackling a variety of transport problems.

On this course you’ll be taught by our expert academics, from lecturers through to professors. You may also be taught by industry professionals with years of experience, as well as trained postgraduate researchers, connecting you to some of the brightest minds on campus.

Assessment

Assessment is equally varied and can include coursework essays, case-study reports, group assignments, posters, presentations and exams.

Applying

Entry requirements

A bachelor degree with a 2:1 (hons) in a relevant subject such as (but not limited to) geography, town planning, earth and environment, architecture, sustainability, logistics, business and management, psychology, social policy, history, politics or public administration.

Applicants with any of the following will be considered on a case-by-case basis:

• A bachelor degree with a 2:2 (hons), or equivalent where applicants can demonstrate relevant work experience or aptitude in a relevant specialist field.
• Professional qualifications and relevant experience.

International

We accept a range of international equivalent qualifications. For more information, please contact the Admissions Team.

English language requirements

IELTS 6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 in any component. For other English qualifications, read English language equivalent qualifications.

Improve your English

International students who do not meet the English language requirements for this programme may be able to study our postgraduate pre-sessional English course, to help improve your English language level.

This pre-sessional course is designed with a progression route to your degree programme and you’ll learn academic English in the context of your subject area. To find out more, read Language for Engineering (6 weeks) and Language for Science: Engineering (10 weeks). 

We also offer online pre-sessionals alongside our on-campus pre-sessionals. Find out more about our six week online pre-sessional.

You can also study pre-sessionals for longer periods – read about our postgraduate pre-sessional English courses.

How to apply

Application deadlines

Please note: applications for this course open on the 1^st October 2024.

Applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible.

30 June 2025 – International applicants

12 September 2025 – UK applicants

If you're still unsure about the application process, contact the admissions team for help.

Read about visas, immigration and other information in International students. We recommend that international students apply as early as possible to ensure that they have time to apply for their visa.

Admissions policy

University of Leeds Admissions Policy 2025

This course is taught by

Institute for Transport Studies

Contact us

Institute for Transport Studies Postgraduate Admissions Team

Email: courses@its.leeds.ac.uk
Telephone:

Fees

UK: £13,000 (Total)

International: £32,750 (Total)

Read more about paying fees and charges.

For fees information for international taught postgraduate students, read Masters fees.

Part-time fees
Fees for part-time courses are normally calculated based on the number of credits you study in a year compared to the equivalent full-time course. For example, if you study half the course credits in a year, you will pay half the full-time course fees for that year.

Additional cost information

There may be additional costs related to your course or programme of study, or related to being a student at the University of Leeds. Read more on our living costs and budgeting page.

Scholarships and financial support

If you have the talent and drive, we want you to be able to study with us, whatever your financial circumstances. There may be help for students in the form of loans and non-repayable grants from the University and from the government.  Find out more at Masters funding overview.

Career opportunities

A degree from the Institute for Transport Studies at Leeds opens up a range of opportunities to pursue a rewarding career in this industry. This course will equip you with an extensive specialist skill set, alongside industry experience and the chance to interact directly with industry organisations which could give you the edge with employers.

Transport consultancies are the largest employers of our graduates, but other common careers include those in government, academia, regulatory bodies, transport operators, logistics companies, not-for-profit and international agencies.

Our graduates work across the private and public sectors. Many work abroad, whether for UK companies with overseas offices, for international organisations or for national governments.

Plus, the University of Leeds is in the top 5 most targeted universities in the UK by graduate recruiters, according to High Fliers’ The Graduate Market in 2024 report.

Here’s an insight into some of the job roles and organisations previous graduates on this course have secured:

• Transport Planner, ARUP
• Transport Officer, Cambridgeshire County Council
• Transport Planner, JMP Consultants
• Transport Planner, MDS Transmodal
• Airport Infrastructure Planner, Ministry of Transportation
• Principal Analyst, Transport for London
• Assistant Modelling Manager, Transport for London
• Strategic Transport Planner, City of Stockholm Transport Administration
• Senior Transport Planner, Islington Council
• Senior Transport Manager, Bradford City Council
• Transport Planner, London Borough of Hackney
• Graduate Transport Planner, Tetra Tech
• Transport Planner, Pell Frischmann
• Graduate Future Mobility Consultant, WSP
• Assistant Transport Modeller, WSP
• Transport Economist, SYSTRA
• Senior Network Analyst, Network Rail
• Station Capacity Analyst, Network Rail
• Route Performance Analyst, Network Rail
• Rail Modeler/Analyst, Jacobs Foundation

Careers support

Study abroad and work placements

This degree does not offer the option to study abroad.

Work placements

You’ll have the opportunity to gain four or twelve months industry experience in the UK with companies such as Network Rail and AECOM at the end of your Masters course.

It’s important to note, work placements are not guaranteed. The job market is competitive – and there may be competition for the placement you want. You’ll have to apply the same way you would for any job post, with your CV and, if successful, attend an interview with the organisation. After the competitive application process, paid placements are offered from September to December at the end of your studies.

Our Careers Service will help you every step of the way. They run a number of placement sessions to discuss opportunities and support you with CV writing and interview preparations. Plus, they’ll be there to answer any questions you may have and offer guidance throughout the process, too.

Benefits of a work placement year:

• Build industry contacts within your chosen field
• Our close industry links mean you’ll be in direct contact with potential employers
• Advance your experience and skills by putting the course teachings into practice
• Gain invaluable insight into working as a professional in this industry
• Improve your employability

Some of the employers and the job titles of previous placement students are listed below:

• Graduate Transport Engineer, AECOM
• Strategic Planning Assistant, Timetable Development Assistant, Junior Strategic Planner, Network Rail
• Transport Consultant, Hydrock Fore
• Transport Consultant, Stantec
• Graduate Transport Planner, WYCA
• Graduate Transport Planner, Hydrock Fore (formerly Fore Consulting)
• Graduate Transport Planer, SLR (formerly Vectos)
• Graduate Transport Strategy Consultant,The Hub Transport Advisory

The scheme is open to all Masters students, including those on a student visa, within the Institute for Transport Studies.