Unlocking the Future of Planners: Insights from Recent Graduates and Why the Outlook is Promising
Every career depends on a steady flow of new professionals, but few professionals have as direct an impact on shaping communities and influencing daily life as urban planning careers.
Every career depends on a steady flow of new professionals, but few professionals have as direct an impact on shaping communities and influencing daily life as urban planning careers. As development demand increases and the build environment transforms, the need for skilled planners is more critical than ever. However, the path to a career in planning can be complex.
To gain a better understanding of how aspiring planners discover and engage with the field, we conducted a survey with employees who graduated in the last five years. The findings highlight challenges, yet more importantly, they reveal substantial opportunities to enhance the pathway into planning careers and motivate the next wave of talent. The story that unfolds is one of optimism: despite obstacles, graduates hold planning careers in high regard and eagerly recommend them to others.
Many Find Planning Late – But Fully Embrace It
The survey revealed that planning careers often remain ‘hidden.’ Most respondents did not learn about planning through education or structured career guidance. Only a few were aware of the profession before attending university, with many discovering it serendipitously, sometimes after studying subjects like geography or transitioning from other industries.
Several respondents mentioned they ‘fell into’ planning rather than deliberately choosing it from the beginning. While this presents a challenge, it also represents a significant opportunity. The fact that many graduates eventually pursue and remain in planning careers is telling. It indicates that planning offers a compelling value once people understand its scope.
The value is undeniable. Graduates passionately described what makes planning rewarding: diverse projects, intellectual simulation and a sense of purpose. They highlighted the ability to shape communities, influence quality of life, and contribute to sustainable, well-designed environments as some of the most fulfilling aspects of planning jobs.
Each respondent states they would recommend the profession to others, as strong endorsement that emphasises planning’s potential to attract and retain driven talent if awareness can be raised earlier.
Challenges Exist – But They Can Be Overcome
The survey identified several reasons why young people find it difficult to enter the profession:
- Low visibility in educational institutions
Planning is seldom discussed at the school level, leading many students to make career decisions without knowing the profession exists.
- Misunderstandings about planners’ role
Some graduates recalled peers perceiving planning as ‘bureaucratic’ ‘slow’ or ‘too technical’. Others thought planners merely ‘draw maps’ or ‘decide locations.’ Planning intersects social, economic and environmental decision making, though this is not always communicated effectively.
- Limited early career experience opportunities
Several respondents noted that internships, shadowing or introductory placements in planning are rare or highly competitive. Without firsthand experience, young people struggle to make informed career choices.
- Confusion about accreditation routes
Some graduates were unaware that an RPTI-accredited degree is typically required, or that alternative paths like planning apprenticeships exist. This lack of clarity can deter potential applicants who might excel in the field.
Despite the challenges, graduates remain optimistic. They offered constructive suggestions and expressed confidence that the industry can modernise its approach to attract future talent.
Graduate Recommendations: Earlier, Clearer and More Engaging Outreach
The survey’s encouraging aspect was the clarity of the graduates’ recommendations. Their insights suggest practical, attainable actions to make planning more accessible:
- Engage with schools sooner
Graduates recommended that planners visit classrooms, participate in career events and work with teachers, especially those in geography or social science.
- Increase work experience opportunities
Even brief shadowing or insight visits can help students appreciate the scope of planning. Several respondents said such experiences were pivotal in their career decisions.
- Highlight the diversity and impact of the work
Graduates want young people to recognise the value planners provide – from placemaking to sustainability, regeneration to heritage and beyond
- Provide clearer information on career paths
Improved communication about accredited degrees, planning apprenticeships and alternative entry routes would help remove unnecessary barriers.
These suggestions reflect a proactive approach: graduates are not merely identifying issues but also contributing to solutions.
Planning Has a Compelling Story to Tell – With a Generation Poised to Share It
The most inspiring survey finding is how proud graduates are to be a part of the urban planning profession. They described it as impactful, dynamic and full of opportunities for growth and learning. Many noted that a planner’s daily role is far more varied and engaging than they anticipated before entering the field.
This enthusiasm is invaluable. A new generation of planners is ready to advocate for the profession – not just because they enjoy the work, but because they understand its societal importance. They recognise planning’s role in sustainable development, housing delivery, placemaking, climate resilience and community wellbeing.
With proper support and visibility, these graduates can be influenced by ambassadors, drawing new talent and diversifying the profession for the future.
Boyer’s Commitment to Nurturing Tomorrow’s Planners
Boyer has consistently supported the growth and development of talented planners at every career stage. Graduate programs, planning apprenticeships and internal training pathways are integral to this mission. The survey underscores the value of this approach and highlights ways the industry can continue to evolve.
By engaging earlier, providing more opportunities and showcasing the rewarding, purpose-driven nature of planning, the profession can build a robust, resilient pipeline for future generations.
Once individuals discover planning, they stay for a reason: it’s meaningful, impactful and brimming with possibilities.