Graduates of the Graduate Diploma in Urban and Regional Planning will have a solid understanding of urban and regional planning and the research skills to solve complex planning issues. Urban and Regional Planning focuses on some of the major challenges facing society, including the population explosion, rapid urbanization, poverty and homelessness, land use conflict, cultural diversity, economic development, and ecological sustainability. Students are also provided with the knowledge and skills to help resolve major urban and regional problems. Ultimately, graduates will contribute to the creation of live able communities, vibrant economies and sustainable places. University of Western Australia is well equipped for teaching and research in urban and regional planning and our teaching is supported by the world class research of the Centre for Regional Development and the Urban Design Centre of Western Australia (UDC). University of Western Australia has strong links with the Planning Institute Australia (Western Australia).