Master of Planning – MPlan full form, MPlan Course Duration, MPlan Entrance Examinations, MPlan Course Fees, and MPlan Course Syllabus

The M Plan is a two-year-long postgraduate degree course that can be pursued after completing a bachelor’s degree in Planning or related fields. M Plan course comprises the study of urban planning, design, sustainability, policy-making, land use, transportation, and environmental management, preparing students for city development roles.

M plan full form is Master of Planning. The M planning course is offered in multiple specializations like Urban Planning, Regional Planning, Transportation Planning, Environmental Planning, Housing & Habitat Planning, Infrastructure Planning, Urban Design, Rural Planning, GIS & Remote Sensing, and Disaster Management & Resilience Planning.

There are various entrance examinations held for admission to the Master of Planning course. The few popular M Planning entrance examinations are GATE, CEED, and NATA. The top M planning colleges in India are IIT Kharagpur, SPA New Delhi, NIUA New Delhi, JNU New Delhi, IIT Roorkee, BHU Varanasi, BITS Pilani, and AMU Aligarh.

The M Plan course fees in India are ₹20,000 to ₹4,00,000 per year. The key recruiters for M Planning graduates in India are RITES, TATA Consulting Engineers, Delhi Development Authority, Bangalore Development Authority, Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs, Town & Country Planning Organization, DLF, Lodha Group, Brigade Group, Arcop Associates, Somaya & Kalappa Consultants, Smart Cities Mission, CEPT Foundation, L&T, AECOM, UN-Habitat, World Bank, KPMG, PwC, Deloitte, IITs, and NITs.

Table of Content

M Plan Course Highlights

M Plan Course Eligibility Criteria

M Plan Course Entrance Examinations

M Plan Admission Procedure

Top Colleges/ Universities offering M Plan Programs

M Planning Syllabus

M Plan Course Fees

M Plan Career Prospects

M Plan Salary in India

M Plan Top Recruiters

FAQs about M Plan Course

M Plan Course Highlights

Specialisations	Details
Course Name	M Plan
M Plan Full Form	M Plan full form is Master of Planning
Level of Course	Postgraduate
Type of Course	Degree
Specialisations	Urban Planning, Regional Planning, Transportation Planning, Environmental Planning, Housing & Habitat Planning, Infrastructure Planning, Urban Design, Rural Planning, GIS & Remote Sensing, and Disaster Management & Resilience Planning.
M Plan Entrance Examinations	GATE, CEED, NATA
M Planning syllabus	Planning Theory, Urban Economics, Research Methodology, Planning for Infrastructure, Sustainable Development, Transport Planning, Land Use Planning
Admission Basis	Merit and Entrance
Top M Plan Colleges in India	IIT Kharagpur, SPA New Delhi, NIUA New Delhi, JNU New Delhi, IIT Roorkee, BHU Varanasi, BITS Pilani, AMU Aligarh
M Plan Fees	₹20,000 to ₹4,00,000 per year
M Plan Entry-level Salary in India	₹4-8 Lakh per annum
Career Prospects	Urban Planner Transport Planner Environmental Planner Regional Planner Housing Planner/Developer Infrastructure Planner Policy Analyst Urban Design Specialist
Top Recruiters	RITES, TATA Consulting Engineers, Delhi Development Authority, Bangalore Development Authority, Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs, Town & Country Planning Organization, DLF, Lodha Group, Brigade Group, Arcop Associates, Somaya & Kalappa Consultants, Smart Cities Mission, CEPT Foundation, L&T, AECOM, UN-Habitat, World Bank, KPMG, PwC, Deloitte, IITs, and NITs.

M Plan Course Eligibility Criteria

In India, the eligibility criteria for pursuing a Master of Planning (M Plan) course generally vary depending on the institution, but here are the typical requirements:

1. Educational Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree: The candidate must have a Bachelor's degree in any of the following:

  • B Arch (Bachelor of Architecture)

  • B Planning (Bachelor of Planning)

  • B Tech/BE (with a specialization in Civil Engineering or a related field)

  • BA in Urban or Regional Planning

  • BSc in Planning or a related discipline

• A minimum of 50% to 60% aggregate marks in the qualifying degree is usually required. This can vary depending on the specific institution and its requirements.

1. Age Limit:

• Some universities may impose an age limit (typically between 20-30 years) for admission into the M Plan program, though this is not common across all institutions.

1. Entrance Exams:

Many institutions require candidates to clear an entrance exam to be eligible for admission. Some of the popular entrance exams include:

• GATE (Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering): For candidates with a BTech/BE in planning or related fields.

• CEED (Common Entrance Examination for Design): For architecture-related degrees.

• NATA (National Aptitude Test in Architecture): For candidates with a B Arch background.

• Institute-Specific Exams: Some universities or institutions conduct their own entrance exams, such as the ones conducted by the School of Planning and Architecture (SPA) or IITs.

These exams generally test candidates on their analytical ability, general knowledge, and planning-related subjects.

1. Work Experience (Optional):

• Some institutions may prefer candidates who have prior work experience, especially in fields like architecture, urban planning, civil engineering, or related industries. However, this is usually not mandatory for all institutions.

1. Personal Interview or Group Discussion:

• In addition to the entrance exam, certain institutes may require a personal interview or group discussion as part of the admission process.

1. Reservation Policy:

• As per the Government of India guidelines, there are reservation quotas for SC/ST/OBC candidates, as well as for economically weaker sections (EWS), which vary from institute to institute.

Important Notes:

• Each university or college may have specific rules regarding eligibility and entrance exams, so it’s essential to check the specific admission guidelines for each institution before applying.

• Some institutions may offer specializations in areas like Urban Planning, Regional Planning, Environmental Planning, and Transport Planning.

M Plan Course Entrance Examinations

The Master of Planning (M Plan) course typically requires candidates to clear an entrance examination as part of the admission process. The entrance exams may vary depending on the institution or university, and in some cases, there may be a common exam for multiple institutes. Below are some of the key entrance exams for M Plan admissions in India:

1. GATE (Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering)

• Conducted by: IITs and IISc (Indian Institute of Science)

• Purpose: While GATE is primarily an exam for admission to MTech courses, it is also used by many institutes for admissions to M Plan courses, especially for candidates with a BTech/BE degree in Civil Engineering, Architecture, or related fields.

• Subjects: Architecture and Planning (Paper Code: AR) is the specific paper for those opting for M Plan.

• Eligibility: Candidates with a Bachelor's degree in Architecture, Engineering, Planning, or a related field are eligible to apply.

• Mode: Online exam (computer-based).

• Exam Date: Typically held in February each year.

• Score Validity: The GATE score is valid for three years from the date of announcement of results.

2. NATA (National Aptitude Test in Architecture)

• Conducted by: Council of Architecture (COA)

• Purpose: NATA is primarily an entrance exam for Bachelor of Architecture (BArch), but some institutions may also accept NATA scores for admission to M Plan courses, especially those with a background in architecture.

• Eligibility: Candidates must have a BArch degree or equivalent for M Plan admission through NATA.

• Mode: Online, with multiple-choice questions, and a drawing test.

• Exam Date: Conducted twice a year (typically in April and July).

3. CEED (Common Entrance Examination for Design)

• Conducted by: IIT Bombay

• Purpose: Although CEED is mostly for admissions to M Des (Master of Design) programs, some institutes use it for admissions to M Plan courses with a focus on design aspects of planning, especially urban and architectural design.

• Eligibility: Candidates with a BArch or equivalent qualification can apply for CEED.

• Mode: Computer-based exam with questions on design aptitude, visualization, and reasoning.

• Exam Date: Typically held in January.

4. SPA (School of Planning and Architecture) Entrance Exam

• Conducted by: SPA Delhi, SPA Bhopal, SPA Vijayawada

• Purpose: The School of Planning and Architecture (SPA) is one of the most prestigious institutions for planning courses in India. SPA conducts its own entrance exams for M Plan admissions.

• Eligibility: A BArch or B Planning degree or an equivalent qualification.

• Mode: Written test, followed by a personal interview (PI) or counseling session.

• Exam Date: The exact date varies, but it is usually held in May or June.

5. JNU Entrance Exam (Jawaharlal Nehru University, Delhi)

• Conducted by: JNU (Jawaharlal Nehru University)

• Purpose: JNU offers a Master of Planning (M Plan) program through its School of Environmental Sciences. Candidates need to clear the JNU Entrance Exam for admission to the M Plan program.

• Eligibility: A Bachelor's degree in planning or related fields such as architecture or engineering.

• Mode: Online exam (computer-based), followed by an interview in some cases.

• Exam Date: Typically held in May-June.

6. NITs (National Institutes of Technology) Entrance Exam

• Conducted by: NITs (National Institutes of Technology)

• Purpose: Several NITs offer M Plan courses, and some of them conduct their own entrance exams, or they may accept scores from GATE.

• Eligibility: Candidates with a BTech/BE in Civil Engineering, Architecture, or a related field, or BArch degree holders.

• Mode: Varies by institute.

7. Other Institute-Specific Exams

• Several other universities and colleges have their own entrance exams for M Plan admissions. These institutes may include:

  • CEPT University (Ahmedabad): Offers admissions to M Plan programs with their own entrance exam.

  • Anna University (Chennai): Offers entrance exams for M Plan courses.

  • M.S. University (Vadodara): Conducts its own entrance exam for M Plan.

Key Points to Note:

• Eligibility Criteria: Generally, a BArch, B Planning, or BTech/BE in a related field (like Civil Engineering) is required for M Plan admissions.

• Exam Pattern: Most exams test a candidate's analytical ability, planning knowledge, logical reasoning, and general knowledge related to architecture, urban planning, and design.

• Application Process: Candidates usually need to apply online for the respective entrance exams and also submit any required documents (such as marksheets, proof of qualification, and ID proof).

M Plan Admission Procedure

Here’s a detailed M Plan Admission Procedure in India in a tabular format for easier reference:

Step	Procedure
1. Eligibility Criteria	Candidates must meet the eligibility requirements for M Plan courses.
	- Bachelor’s Degree: B.Arch, B.Planning, B.Tech (Civil), B.E., or equivalent in a related field.
	- Minimum Marks: Typically, 50% to 60% aggregate in the qualifying degree (varies by institution).
2. Entrance Exams	Candidates must clear the entrance exams conducted by various institutions or by national exams.
	- GATE (Civil Engineering, Architecture & Planning Paper)
	- NATA (for B.Arch graduates in some cases)
	- CEED (for design-related planning programs)
	- SPA Entrance Exam (for SPA Delhi, Bhopal, Vijayawada)
	- JNU Entrance Exam (for Jawaharlal Nehru University)
	- Institute-specific Exams (e.g., Anna University, CEPT University)
3. Application Process	- Online Registration: Fill out the online application forms on the official websites of the respective exams.
	- Document Submission: Submit documents like educational qualifications, identity proof, etc.
	- Application Fees: Pay the exam/application fee as per the guidelines of the respective exam/institute.
4. Entrance Exam	- Appear for the entrance exam on the scheduled date.
	- The exam may be online or offline depending on the institution.
	- The exams typically test general knowledge, analytical ability, and planning-related subjects.
5. Result Declaration	- Entrance exam results are announced by the conducting body.
	- Candidates must check their scores and eligibility for further rounds of admission.
6. Counseling/Interview	- Some institutes may conduct interviews or group discussions after the exam.
	- Merit List: Shortlisted candidates based on entrance exam scores or overall performance.
	- Some institutes (e.g., SPA) may have a personal interview stage for the final selection process.
7. Document Verification	- Shortlisted candidates must verify their documents, including marksheets, caste certificates (if applicable), and any other required documents.
8. Final Admission	- After counseling/interview, candidates are offered final admission based on their rank and availability of seats.
	- Payment of Fees: Candidates must pay the course fees to confirm their seat.
9. Commencement of Classes	- Once admission is confirmed, candidates can attend the orientation and begin their course.
	- Class Timings & Schedule: Detailed schedules and academic calendars will be provided.

Top Colleges/ Universities offering M Plan Programs

Here are some of the top colleges and universities in India offering Master of Planning (M Plan) programs:

1. Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kharagpur

• Program: Master of City Planning (MCP), Master of Regional Planning (MRP)

• Specializations: Urban Planning, Transport Planning, Environmental Planning, and Regional Planning.

• Website: IIT Kharagpur

1. School of Planning and Architecture (SPA), New Delhi

• Program: M Plan in various specializations like Urban and Regional Planning, Environmental Planning, and Transport Planning.

• Website: SPA New Delhi

1. National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA), New Delhi

• Program: Master's in Urban and Regional Planning (offered in collaboration with various universities)

• Website: NIUA

1. Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi

• Program: Master of Planning (M Plan) in Urban and Regional Planning.

• Website: JNU

1. Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee

• Program: M Plan in Urban and Rural Planning

• Website: IIT Roorkee

1. CEPT University, Ahmedabad

• Program: Master of Planning (M Plan) with various specializations like Urban Planning, Transportation, Environmental Planning, and Housing.

• Website: CEPT University

1. Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS), Pilani

• Program: M Plan in Urban and Regional Planning

• Website: BITS Pilani

1. Anna University, Chennai

• Program: M Plan in Urban Planning and Regional Development.

• Website: Anna University

1. Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi

• Program: M Plan in Urban and Regional Planning

• Website: BHU

1. Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), Aligarh

• Program: M Plan in Urban and Regional Planning

• Website: AMU

These institutions are known for their well-established planning programs that provide specialized knowledge in urban, regional, and rural planning. Admission requirements and selection procedures may vary, typically involving entrance exams, personal interviews, and academic qualifications.

M Planning Syllabus

Here’s a general overview of the Master of Planning (M Plan) syllabus in India, organized in a tabular format. The exact syllabus may vary across institutions, but most universities follow a similar structure for core and elective courses.

Semester	M Plan Subjects
Semester 1	1. Planning Theory
	2. Physical Planning and Design
	3. Planning Techniques and Methods
	4. Planning History and Evolution
	5. Urban Economics
	6. GIS (Geographic Information System) for Planning
Semester 2	1. Urban and Regional Planning
	2. Environmental Planning
	3. Planning for Infrastructure
	4. Research Methodology
	5. Housing and Community Development
	6. Sustainable Development
Semester 3	1. Transport Planning
	2. Urban Governance and Management
	3. Land Use Planning
	4. Urban Conservation and Heritage Management
	5. Regional Development Planning
	6. Elective (Specialization courses based on interests)
Semester 4	1. Planning Law and Legislation
	2. Urban Design
	3. Urban and Rural Development Policies
	4. Elective (Specialization courses)
	5. Dissertation/Thesis
	6. Internship/Fieldwork

Electives (may vary by university)

Elective Subjects

1. Smart Cities Planning

2. Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)

3. Rural Development Planning

4. Disaster Management Planning

5. Urban Transport and Mobility

6. Urban Sociology and Social Aspects of Planning

7. Climate Change and Sustainable Urban Planning

8. Real Estate Development

9. Urban Poverty and Housing

10. Landscape and Urban Design

Note: Some institutions may also offer other elective courses based on the department's expertise or focus areas such as Urban Governance, International Development, or Integrated Transport Systems.

This syllabus of M Planning offers a comprehensive understanding of urban planning and development, covering practical, theoretical, and technical aspects required in the planning profession.

M Plan Course Fees

The course fees for a Master of Planning (M Plan) program in India can vary widely depending on the institution, the type of institution (government or private), and the specific specialization. Below is a general range of fees for M Plan courses in India:

Institution Type	Average Course Fee (Per Year)
Government Institutes	₹20,000 to ₹2,00,000
Private Universities	₹2,00,000 to ₹4,00,000

Detailed Fee Structure (Approximate)

1. IITs (Indian Institutes of Technology)

• Fee Range: ₹1,00,000 to ₹2,00,000 per year

• IITs, like IIT Kharagpur and IIT Roorkee, generally have higher fees compared to government colleges but still offer great infrastructure and academic quality.

1. SPA (School of Planning and Architecture)

• Fee Range: ₹1,00,000 to ₹1,50,000 per year

• SPAs are government-funded institutions, and their fees are relatively lower in comparison to private universities.

1. CEPT University, Ahmedabad

• Fee Range: ₹1,50,000 to ₹3,00,000 per year

• A private university with a strong reputation in the field of planning and design.

1. Anna University, Chennai

• Fee Range: ₹50,000 to ₹1,00,000 per year

• As a government university, the fee structure is affordable for most students.

1. BITS Pilani

• Fee Range: ₹2,00,000 to ₹4,00,000 per year

• Being a private institution, BITS has higher tuition fees compared to government-run colleges.

1. Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi

• Fee Range: ₹20,000 to ₹50,000 per year

• JNU is known for its highly subsidized education, especially in government-funded institutions.

1. Aligarh Muslim University (AMU)

• Fee Range: ₹40,000 to ₹1,00,000 per year

• AMU offers affordable education with a reasonable fee structure.

1. Banaras Hindu University (BHU)

• Fee Range: ₹30,000 to ₹80,000 per year

• Another well-established government university offering M Plan courses at a very affordable fee.

1. Private Universities

• Fee Range: ₹2,00,000 to ₹4,00,000 per year

• Many private universities offer M Plan courses, and fees in these universities are higher compared to government institutions.

Other Costs (Approximate)

• Hostel Fees: ₹50,000 to ₹1,50,000 per year (varies based on facilities).

• Books & Materials: ₹5,000 to ₹10,000 per year.

• Miscellaneous Expenses: ₹10,000 to ₹20,000 per year for activities, workshops, and projects.

Scholarships & Financial Aid

Many institutions offer scholarships and financial aid based on merit or need, which can help reduce the fee burden. Some institutions, especially government ones, may also provide reservation benefits for students from underprivileged backgrounds.

M Plan Career Prospects

A Master of Planning (M Plan) offers a wide range of career opportunities in various sectors related to urban and rural development, infrastructure planning, environmental sustainability, and more. Graduates of M Plan programs in India can pursue roles in both government and private sectors, working in organizations that deal with urban and regional planning, environmental management, transportation, housing, and policy analysis.

Here are some of the key career prospects for M Plan graduates in India:

1. Urban Planner

• Role: Urban Planners design and develop plans for urban areas, ensuring the optimal use of land, resources, and infrastructure. They work on issues like housing, public spaces, transportation, and environmental sustainability.

• Employment Sectors: Municipal corporations, urban planning firms, real estate companies, government departments.

• Salary: ₹5-8 Lakh per annum (Entry-level), higher with experience.

1. Regional Planner

• Role: Regional planners focus on larger geographical areas, helping to develop strategies for economic growth, transportation systems, and regional development.

• Employment Sectors: Government agencies, regional development authorities, urban development departments.

• Salary: ₹6-10 Lakh per annum (Entry-level).

1. Environmental Planner

• Role: Environmental planners specialize in creating sustainable and eco-friendly development plans while minimizing environmental impact. They are involved in environmental impact assessments (EIA), environmental laws, and sustainable development.

• Employment Sectors: Environmental consulting firms, government agencies, NGOs.

• Salary: ₹4-7 Lakh per annum (Entry-level), higher with experience.

1. Transport Planner

• Role: Transport planners focus on designing and improving transportation networks to ensure safe, efficient, and sustainable mobility in cities and regions.

• Employment Sectors: Government agencies (e.g., Ministry of Road Transport), transport departments, private consulting firms.

• Salary: ₹5-8 Lakh per annum (Entry-level).

1. Housing Planner/Developer

• Role: Housing planners develop strategies for affordable housing projects, including land use planning, construction methods, and financing options.

• Employment Sectors: Real estate companies, government housing schemes, urban development authorities.

• Salary: ₹5-9 Lakh per annum (Entry-level).

1. Project Manager (Planning Projects)

• Role: Project managers oversee urban planning projects, ensuring they are completed on time and within budget. They manage teams, resources, and timelines.

• Employment Sectors: Construction firms, real estate developers, government bodies.

• Salary: ₹7-12 Lakh per annum (Entry-level).

1. Policy Analyst (Urban Development)

• Role: Policy analysts research and analyze policies related to urban planning, housing, transportation, and environmental issues. They work with government bodies, think tanks, and NGOs to develop and advocate for effective policies.

• Employment Sectors: Government, NGOs, think tanks, international organizations.

• Salary: ₹5-8 Lakh per annum (Entry-level).

1. Real Estate Developer/Consultant

• Role: Real estate developers and consultants manage the development of real estate projects from planning to execution. They assess market needs, plan land use, and oversee the construction of residential, commercial, and mixed-use properties.

• Employment Sectors: Real estate companies, private consulting firms, government development bodies.

• Salary: ₹6-10 Lakh per annum (Entry-level).

1. Infrastructure Planner

• Role: Infrastructure planners work on large-scale infrastructure projects, including roads, bridges, utilities, and public services. They ensure these projects align with urban planning and regional development goals.

• Employment Sectors: Government agencies, public sector undertakings, private infrastructure firms.

• Salary: ₹5-8 Lakh per annum (Entry-level).

1. Town and Country Planner

• Role: These professionals plan and design urban and rural settlements, ensuring that communities have proper infrastructure, services, and sustainable growth.

• Employment Sectors: Municipal and city planning authorities, development agencies, private consultancies.

• Salary: ₹5-9 Lakh per annum (Entry-level).

1. Researcher/Academic

• Role: M Plan graduates can also pursue a career in research or teaching, contributing to urban planning knowledge and policy development through academic research and teaching at universities or think tanks.

• Employment Sectors: Universities, research institutions, think tanks.

• Salary: ₹4-6 Lakh per annum (Academic level); higher in research roles.

1. Urban Design Specialist

• Role: Urban designers focus on the aesthetic, functional, and social aspects of urban areas, creating spaces that are not only practical but also livable and attractive.

• Employment Sectors: Architecture firms, urban design studios, real estate developers.

• Salary: ₹5-7 Lakh per annum (Entry-level).

1. Freelance Urban/Regional Planner

• Role: Freelance planners work independently, offering planning services to municipalities, developers, and NGOs. They can also work on short-term projects.

• Salary: Variable; depends on project scope, but can earn ₹6-10 Lakh per annum with experience.

Additional Skills to Enhance Career Prospects:

• GIS and Remote Sensing: Expertise in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing for planning and analysis.

• Data Analytics: Ability to interpret and analyze urban data for planning and policy-making.

• Sustainable Development Knowledge: Understanding of green building techniques, renewable energy systems, and environmental regulations.

• Project Management: Knowledge of project management tools and techniques, including budgeting, scheduling, and resource management.

The career prospects for M Plan graduates in India are vast and varied, with opportunities in both the public and private sectors. With India's rapidly urbanizing population and increasing focus on sustainable development, M Plan graduates are in high demand to address challenges in urban growth, infrastructure, housing, and environmental management.

M Plan Salary in India

The salary for M Plan (Master of Planning) graduates in India can vary widely depending on factors such as the specialization, type of organization, location, years of experience, and individual skill sets. However, here's a general overview of the salary range for M Plan graduates in India:

1. Entry-Level Salary (0-2 years of experience):

• Salary Range: ₹4-8 Lakh per annum

  • Roles: Urban Planner, Environmental Planner, Transport Planner, Housing Planner, Junior Consultant, etc.

  • Factors: The salary at entry-level is typically lower, but it improves as experience and skills develop. Government roles may offer slightly lower salaries, whereas private sector roles, especially in consulting and real estate, may offer higher pay.

1. Mid-Level Salary (3-5 years of experience):

• Salary Range: ₹8-12 Lakh per annum

  • Roles: Senior Urban Planner, Project Manager, Policy Analyst, Regional Planner, Senior Consultant, etc.

  • Factors: Professionals with a few years of experience can expect salary growth, especially if they take on leadership roles or specialized projects. Experience in government planning bodies, real estate companies, or international organizations can significantly impact salary levels.

1. Senior-Level Salary (5+ years of experience):

• Salary Range: ₹12-20 Lakh per annum or more

  • Roles: Principal Planner, Urban Design Specialist, Senior Consultant, Head of Planning Department, Infrastructure Planner, etc.

  • Factors: At this level, professionals are expected to have substantial experience and expertise in planning, design, project management, and leadership. Working in large private firms, multinational consulting companies, or senior government positions tends to offer the highest salaries.

Specialization-Based Salary Insights:

• Urban Planner: ₹5-15 Lakh per annum (can increase with experience and specialization in smart cities, infrastructure planning, etc.)

• Environmental Planner: ₹5-12 Lakh per annum (may increase with expertise in sustainability and green building practices)

• Transport Planner: ₹6-14 Lakh per annum (higher salary potential if involved in large infrastructure projects)

• Regional Planner: ₹6-12 Lakh per annum (typically in government agencies, but private sector opportunities also exist)

• Housing Planner/Developer: ₹5-12 Lakh per annum (with significant growth potential in real estate development)

• Policy Analyst: ₹6-10 Lakh per annum (higher salaries possible with expertise in policy research and international organizations)

Factors Influencing Salary:

1. Type of Organization:

   • Government: Government roles, including positions in municipal corporations and government agencies, typically offer a stable salary, but it may be lower compared to private sector salaries.

   • Private Sector: Private companies, particularly real estate firms, urban planning consultancies, and infrastructure development companies, tend to offer higher salaries.

   • International Organizations: Working for global institutions (e.g., World Bank, UN-Habitat) can offer competitive salaries along with other perks.

2. Location:

   • Salaries can vary by location, with metropolitan areas like Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad offering higher compensation due to the cost of living and the concentration of urban development projects.

3. Skills and Certifications:

   • GIS expertise, Data Analytics, and knowledge of Sustainable Development are highly valued and can increase salary potential.

   • Certifications in project management (e.g., PMP) or environmental assessment (e.g., EIA) can also enhance earning potential.

Salary by Specific Role:

Role	Salary Range (Per Annum)
Urban Planner	₹5-15 Lakh
Transport Planner	₹6-14 Lakh
Environmental Planner	₹5-12 Lakh
Regional Planner	₹6-12 Lakh
Housing Planner/Developer	₹5-12 Lakh
Infrastructure Planner	₹6-12 Lakh
Policy Analyst	₹6-10 Lakh
Urban Design Specialist	₹5-10 Lakh

Additional Benefits:

• Government Jobs: Besides salary, government jobs often come with job security, pension schemes, medical benefits, and housing allowances.

• Private Sector Jobs: Private sector roles may offer performance-based bonuses, health insurance, and additional perks like transport allowances or flexible working hours.

M Plan Top Recruiters

Key Employers for M Plan Graduates:

• Government Organizations: Urban Development Ministries, Municipal Corporations, National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA), Town and Country Planning Departments.

• Private Sector: Urban planning firms, real estate companies, consulting firms like McKinsey, PwC, and Deloitte.

• International Organizations: United Nations (UN-Habitat), World Bank, Asian Development Bank (ADB).

• NGOs and Think Tanks: Habitat for Humanity, The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI), World Resources Institute (WRI).

FAQs about M Plan Course

Ques – What is the M Plan course?

Answer – The M Plan (Master of Planning) is a postgraduate course focused on urban and regional planning, preparing students for roles in city development and sustainability. It covers areas like urban design, infrastructure, and environmental planning.

Ques – What is M Plan full form?

Answer – The M Plan full form is Master of Planning.

Ques – What is the duration of the M plan course?

Answer – The M Plan (Master of Planning) course typically has a duration of 2 years. It is structured in four semesters, covering various aspects of urban and regional planning.

Ques – Who is eligible for the M Plan course?

Answer – To be eligible for the M Plan course, candidates must have a Bachelor's degree in Planning, Architecture, Civil Engineering, or a related field. Typically, a minimum of 50% marks (or equivalent CGPA) in the undergraduate program is required. Some institutes may also require candidates to clear an entrance exam and/or interview.

Ques – What is the entrance exam for M plan?

Answer – The entrance exams for the M Plan course are CEED, GATE, and NATA.

Ques – What are the specializations for which a M Planning degree is granted?

Answer – M planning degree is granted in specializations like Urban Planning, Regional Planning, Transportation Planning, Environmental Planning, Housing & Habitat Planning, Infrastructure Planning, Urban Design, Rural Planning, GIS & Remote Sensing, and Disaster Management & Resilience Planning.

Ques – What is the M Planning course fee in India?

Answer – The M Planning course fee in India is INR 20,000 to INR 4,00,000 per year.

Ques – What are the various topics covered in the M Planning syllabus?

Answer – The M Planning syllabus covers topics like Planning Theory, Urban Economics, Research Methodology, Planning for Infrastructure, Sustainable Development, Transport Planning, Land Use Planning, etc.

Ques – Which are the top colleges offering M Planning courses in India?

Answer – Top colleges offering M Planning courses in India include the IIT Kharagpur, SPA New Delhi, NIUA New Delhi, JNU New Delhi, IIT Roorkee, BHU Varanasi, BITS Pilani, AMU Aligarh, etc.

Ques – What is the average salary received by M planning graduates in India at the entry-level?

Answer – The average salary for M Plan graduates in India starts around ₹4-8 Lakh per annum at entry-level positions.

Ques – What is the average salary received by M planning graduates in India at an advanced level?

Answer – The average salary for M Plan graduates in India is ₹12-20 Lakh per annum for senior roles and specialized positions.

Ques – Which are the top recruiters of M Plan graduates in India?

Answer – Top recruiters for M Plan graduates in India include RITES, TATA Consulting Engineers, Delhi Development Authority, Bangalore Development Authority, Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs, Town & Country Planning Organization, DLF, Lodha Group, Brigade Group, Arcop Associates, Somaya & Kalappa Consultants, Smart Cities Mission, CEPT Foundation, L&T, AECOM, UN-Habitat, World Bank, KPMG, PwC, Deloitte, IITs, and NITs.

Ques – What are the various career prospects for M Planning graduates?

Answer – B Planning graduates can pursue careers as Urban Planner, Transport Planners, Environmental Planners, Regional Planners, Housing Planners/Developers, Infrastructure Planners, Policy Analysts, and Urban Design Specialists.

Ques – What is the M Planning scope in India?

Answer – The scope of M Planning in India is vast, with opportunities in urban and regional planning, infrastructure development, and environmental sustainability. Graduates can work with government agencies, private firms, real estate companies, and NGOs. The growing focus on smart cities, urbanization, and sustainable development further enhances job prospects in this field.