Planning is a broad work area involving a number of diverse skills, although the job description often refers to town planning. Other aspects of planning include media and transport planning as well as print production, emergency planning and much more.
Planning in any sector is about making considered and researched long-term decisions on management and development issues. The conflicting demands of all sectors of private or public involvement in the issue need to be reconciled, taking into account legalities and requiring both creative and negotiating skills on the part of the planner.
Typical work activities include: the development of planning solutions; working with other professionals, for example, architects and surveyors; researching and analysing data and presenting the results as well as scheduling and monitoring finance. A key skill is the ability to negotiate between conflicting groups, and strong IT ability is required.
Graduate entry to planning positions requires a relevant degree, and town planning job applicants will also need to obtain accreditation from the Royal Town Planning Institute, supported by at least two years’ previous experience.
Starting salaries for newly-qualified planners run from £16,000 to £28,000 per annum, with team leaders receiving up to £45,000 and public sector planning directors in the range of £80,000.

• Having good written and spoken communication abilities.
• Being able to make fair judgements.
• Having competent presentation skills.
• Being able to work with a team
• Having good eye for details.
• Being able to work to deadlines.
• Having good problem solving abilities.
• Having IT skills.
• Being methodical and accurate.
• Having math skills.

Planning area require a relevant degree or postgraduate qualification. Other requirement is to have a first degree in planning accredited by the RTPI, offered by 21 universities in United Kingdom. These courses last four years, with a five year option including practical placement. Being a member of RTPI is a professional recognition related to education, skills, and expertise to be a competent planner.

There is a distance learning option for degree or postgraduate levels offered by several universities including Leeds Metropolitan University, University of the West of England, Dundee University, and London South Bank University.