ICTQual AB Level 2 International Diploma in Urban Planning and Smart Cities

The ICTQual AB Level 2 International Diploma in Urban Planning and Smart Cities provides learners with a strong foundation in modern urban development principles and the technologies shaping intelligent city design. This globally aligned qualification introduces the fundamentals of spatial planning, sustainable infrastructure, and digital innovation that drive smart city transformation across the world.

Designed for both fresh learners and professionals seeking to expand their expertise, the programme blends theoretical understanding with practical, real-world applications. Learners explore how cities can be designed and managed through data-driven planning, green infrastructure, and integrated urban systems that enhance quality of life and promote sustainability.

Over the course of three months and through a 30-credit structured curriculum, learners engage with core topics such as urban design concepts, smart mobility systems, and the use of digital tools for urban analysis and project development. The course promotes a future-oriented perspective, preparing learners to contribute to the creation of resilient, inclusive, and technologically advanced cities.

Upon successful completion, learners will be equipped with the skills needed to pursue roles in urban development, municipal planning, sustainability coordination, and smart infrastructure design. The diploma also supports progression into higher-level qualifications, helping learners continue their professional journey in the fields of urban planning, architecture, and sustainable development.

Course overview

Level 2 International Diploma in Urban Planning and Smart Cities

To enrol in ICTQual AB Level 2 International Diploma in Urban Planning and Smart Cities learner must meet the following entry requirements:

  • Age Requirement: Learners must be at least 18 years old at the time of registration.
  • Educational Background:Learners are expected to have successfully completed secondary education or an equivalent qualification from a recognised institution. A foundation in geography, environmental studies, design, or social sciences is beneficial, as it supports a better understanding of urban development, sustainability, and planning concepts introduced in this qualification.
  • Professional Experience:A minimum of two years of relevant experience in urban development, community planning, construction, or a related field is required. This experience helps learners understand the practical aspects of urban systems and sustainable planning approaches. Individuals who have previously worked in architecture, infrastructure support, or environmental management will find this qualification particularly valuable in formalising and advancing their skills.
  • English Proficiency:Since the course is delivered in English, learners must demonstrate adequate English language proficiency to participate effectively in lectures, assignments, and group discussions. Applicants whose first language is not English are encouraged to present an IELTS score of 4.5 or equivalent, or evidence of prior education conducted in English. This ensures that learners can comprehend technical terminology and communicate effectively within academic and professional contexts.
  • Additional Requirement:Learners are required to have access to a computer or laptop with a stable internet connection for research, digital learning, and assignment submission. Basic computer literacy and familiarity with digital tools or mapping software are recommended. Some centres may also conduct an initial orientation or skills assessment to ensure learners are suitably prepared for the course content and study expectations.

This qualification, the ICTQual AB Level 2 International Diploma in Urban Planning and Smart Cities, consists of 3 mandatory units.

Foundation and Core Knowledge

  1. Principles of Urban Planning and Sustainable Development
  2. Smart City Concepts and Digital Infrastructure
  3. Urban Design, Mobility, and Community Innovation

Learning Outcomes for the ICTQual AB Level 2 International Diploma in Urban Planning and Smart Cities:

Foundation and Core Knowledge

Principles of Urban Planning and Sustainable Development

  • Understand the fundamental principles and processes involved in urban planning.
  • Identify key factors influencing sustainable urban growth and land use.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of environmental, social, and economic sustainability in planning.
  • Analyse how planning policies contribute to effective community development.
  • Apply sustainable planning methods to create balanced and inclusive urban spaces.

Smart City Concepts and Digital Infrastructure

  • Understand the core components and technologies behind smart city development.
  • Explore the role of data, connectivity, and innovation in improving city operations.
  • Evaluate how digital infrastructure supports sustainable urban management.
  • Demonstrate awareness of emerging technologies such as IoT, AI, and GIS in smart cities.
  • Apply digital concepts to propose solutions for real-world urban challenges.

Urban Design, Mobility, and Community Innovation

  • Recognise the relationship between urban design, mobility, and social wellbeing.
  • Understand how transportation systems influence city planning and accessibility.
  • Explore strategies to promote sustainable and inclusive urban mobility.
  • Design community-focused initiatives that encourage innovation and participation.
  • Apply creative design thinking to develop smart, people-centred urban solutions.

Learners who successfully complete the ICTQual AB Level 2 International Diploma in Urban Planning and Smart Cities can advance their professional journey within the urban development, design, and sustainability sectors. This qualification provides a solid foundation for further studies, professional certifications, and employment opportunities in public and private planning environments. The diploma equips learners with both technical knowledge and applied skills, enabling them to progress confidently in modern city development and smart technology integration.

Progression to Higher-Level Diplomas

  • Learners can advance to higher-level diplomas in urban planning, architecture, or smart infrastructure.
  • Future learning can focus on advanced design systems, planning policies, and urban innovation.
  • Higher-level courses allow deeper exploration of sustainability and technology-driven planning.
  • Learners can gain expertise in areas such as transportation design, GIS mapping, or smart energy systems.
  • This pathway builds professional competence for leadership and strategic roles.
  • It prepares learners to contribute to large-scale urban development and regeneration projects.

Career Advancement in Urban Planning

  • Graduates can pursue entry-level positions within municipal or regional planning departments.
  • Learners can work as urban planning assistants, community development officers, or design technicians.
  • The qualification supports roles in sustainability coordination or urban project documentation.
  • Experience gained can lead to progression into senior project planning or design management positions.
  • Learners can contribute to the implementation of sustainable development frameworks.
  • The course strengthens employability in both government and private urban planning sectors.

Pathway into Smart City Development

  • Learners can transition into roles related to smart city innovation and digital transformation.
  • The course prepares individuals to understand IoT, data management, and smart mobility systems.
  • Opportunities include roles in digital infrastructure, city data coordination, or smart systems analysis.
  • Learners can engage in projects that integrate technology into urban sustainability strategies.
  • They may collaborate with public and private stakeholders on intelligent city planning.
  • This pathway enhances technical readiness for modern, data-driven urban projects.

Progression in Sustainable Development and Policy

  • The qualification enables learners to participate in sustainability planning initiatives.
  • Learners can assist in policy development for green infrastructure and low-carbon cities.
  • They can contribute to projects promoting eco-friendly design and renewable integration.
  • Further experience can lead to roles in environmental consultancy or community planning.
  • Learners will gain insight into the global sustainability standards influencing city design.
  • This progression supports those interested in shaping environmentally responsible urban futures.

Opportunities in Urban Design and Mobility Planning

  • Learners can advance into design-oriented roles focusing on urban aesthetics and mobility.
  • The diploma lays the foundation for developing safe, inclusive, and well-connected communities.
  • Learners can support the design of pedestrian networks, public spaces, and transit-oriented systems.
  • Skills can be applied to sustainable transport planning and mobility innovation projects.
  • The course fosters creativity and design thinking applicable to real-world environments.
  • This route encourages collaboration with architects, engineers, and local authorities.

Entry into Professional Certification and Training

  • Learners may pursue professional certifications related to urban management or smart systems.
  • Short courses or workshops in project management, GIS, or digital design can enhance expertise.
  • These credentials help strengthen professional portfolios and technical competence.
  • Certification can support career growth within multidisciplinary planning and construction teams.
  • Continuous professional development aligns learners with international planning standards.
  • Learners can maintain industry relevance through ongoing upskilling and training.

Global and Local Employment Opportunities

  • The diploma supports entry into global urban development and planning projects.
  • Learners can work with city councils, development consultancies, or international NGOs.
  • Skills gained are applicable to smart city planning, sustainable design, and mobility systems.
  • The qualification provides cross-sector employability in design, technology, and infrastructure.
  • Learners can contribute to future-ready urban transformation projects worldwide.
  • This progression empowers learners to shape smarter, sustainable, and inclusive cities.

To deliver the ICTQual AB Level 2 International Diploma in Urban Planning and Smart Cities effectively, centres must meet defined quality, infrastructure, and instructional standards. These requirements ensure that all learners receive a consistent, high-quality learning experience aligned with international academic and professional benchmarks. Centres approved to offer this programme are responsible for maintaining excellence in teaching, assessment, learner support, and administrative operations.

Centre Approval and Accreditation

  • Centres must hold valid ICTQual AB approval and meet all organisational quality assurance criteria.
  • Each centre must demonstrate its capacity to deliver the qualification in accordance with ICTQual AB’s policies.
  • The institution must maintain compliance with all regional and international education standards.
  • Documentation confirming legal registration, training capability, and governance must be provided.
  • Centres are required to renew approval periodically and participate in external quality monitoring.
  • Any changes to delivery structure or faculty must be reported to ICTQual AB for verification.

Academic and Training Facilities

  • Centres must have fully equipped classrooms with digital presentation tools and audio-visual support.
  • Access to urban planning and design software such as AutoCAD, GIS, and modelling platforms is essential.
  • Learners must be provided with workspace for practical assignments and collaborative projects.
  • Facilities should include internet-enabled computer labs to support digital learning and smart city simulations.
  • All physical and digital learning environments must meet accessibility and safety standards.
  • Centres should maintain an updated resource centre or digital library relevant to urban planning studies.

Qualified Teaching and Assessment Staff

  • Tutors must hold relevant academic qualifications and proven industry experience in urban planning or smart cities.
  • Teaching staff should be trained in learner-centred approaches and modern digital teaching methodologies.
  • Assessors must be qualified to evaluate learner work according to ICTQual AB’s assessment standards.
  • Centres must ensure continuous professional development (CPD) for faculty members.
  • Staff must participate in training workshops conducted or approved by ICTQual AB.
  • Each tutor should maintain detailed learner progress records and feedback documentation.

Learning Resources and Support Materials

  • Centres must provide comprehensive course materials covering all core and supplementary topics.
  • Resources should align with current global trends in sustainable development and smart city innovation.
  • Learners must have access to case studies, digital tools, and practical examples for enhanced understanding.
  • Centres are required to support blended learning through both in-person and online resources.
  • All materials should reflect updated planning policies, sustainability practices, and smart city models.
  • Support materials must encourage critical thinking, creativity, and applied learning.

Learner Admission and Support Services

  • Centres must implement a transparent admission process aligned with ICTQual AB entry requirements.
  • Guidance should be provided to help learners understand course expectations and career pathways.
  • Centres must offer academic counselling, technical support, and feedback mechanisms throughout the course.
  • Equality, inclusion, and accessibility principles must be integrated into all learner support policies.
  • Learners must have access to mentoring and peer collaboration opportunities during their studies.
  • Post-course guidance should be available for further education or employment progression.

Quality Assurance and Assessment Integrity

  • Centres must follow ICTQual AB’s quality assurance framework for internal and external verification.
  • Assessments must be transparent, fair, and aligned with defined learning outcomes.
  • Regular internal audits must be conducted to ensure academic and administrative compliance.
  • Learner assessments must include clear marking criteria and documented feedback.
  • Records of assessment, moderation, and certification must be securely maintained.
  • Centres must cooperate fully with ICTQual AB’s quality inspectors and auditors.

Continuous Improvement and Compliance

  • Centres should regularly review their delivery methods and learner outcomes for improvement.
  • Feedback from learners and staff must be used to enhance teaching and resource quality.
  • Centres must maintain alignment with evolving global standards in urban planning and smart technologies.
  • Innovation in digital learning and sustainability-focused teaching is strongly encouraged.
  • Compliance with all ICTQual AB regulations ensures institutional credibility and learner satisfaction.
  • Centres must uphold academic integrity and ethical education practices at all times.

By meeting these comprehensive centre requirements, institutions ensure the effective and ethical delivery of the ICTQual AB Level 2 International Diploma in Urban Planning and Smart Cities. This commitment guarantees that every learner receives a world-class educational experience that fosters innovation, technical competence, and readiness for global urban development challenges.

Route for Candidates with No Experience

This pathway is designed for learners who are new to the field of urban planning, sustainable development, or smart city design and wish to gain the essential knowledge and practical skills required to start a professional career in urban development, planning assistance, or community design support.

  • Admission: Learners enrol at an ICTQual AB approved centre to begin the 3-month, 30-credit programme.
  • Training:The course is structured around three core study units — Principles of Urban Planning and Sustainable Development, Smart City Concepts and Digital Infrastructure, and Urban Design, Mobility, and Community Innovation. Training combines classroom-based instruction, digital workshops, case studies, and project-based learning. This approach ensures that learners acquire both theoretical understanding and applied technical skills relevant to urban and smart city development environments.
  • Assessment:Learners are assessed through project work, practical assignments, written reports, and digital planning exercises. Evaluations measure analytical ability, problem-solving, design thinking, and understanding of sustainability principles in line with industry expectations.
  • Certification:Upon successful completion, learners are awarded the ICTQual AB Level 2 International Diploma in Urban Planning and Smart Cities. Graduates are prepared for entry-level roles such as Urban Planning Assistant, Smart City Technician, Community Development Support Officer, or Sustainability Project Assistant. Learners may also progress to higher-level diplomas within the ICTQual AB qualification framework.

Route for Experienced and Competent Candidates

This pathway is intended for professionals with prior experience in urban development, city planning, smart infrastructure, or sustainability projects who wish to validate their existing expertise through an internationally recognised qualification.

  • Eligibility:Learners must provide verified evidence of at least two years of professional experience in urban planning, smart city projects, or related fields. Acceptable documentation includes employer references, project portfolios, policy reports, or verified achievements aligned with the diploma’s learning outcomes.
  • Assessment of Competence:Experienced learners are evaluated through portfolio reviews, professional discussions, and practical demonstrations that assess their knowledge, analytical skills, and project experience. This process acknowledges prior learning while identifying any gaps that may be bridged through targeted workshops or short assessments.
  • Evidence Submission:Learners must submit a professional portfolio showcasing project documentation, planning proposals, data management reports, and community design contributions. All evidence is reviewed and verified by the approved centre to ensure authenticity and alignment with ICTQual AB standards.
  • Knowledge and Understanding:If specific gaps are identified, learners may complete short bridging sessions, refresher workshops, or supplementary tasks to achieve full competency and meet qualification requirements.
  • Certification:Upon successful demonstration of competence, learners are awarded the ICTQual AB Level 2 International Diploma in Urban Planning and Smart Cities, confirming their professional proficiency and readiness for advancement into roles such as Urban Project Coordinator, Smart City Development Officer, or Planning and Sustainability Specialist.

This dual-route framework provides flexibility for both beginners and experienced professionals, ensuring that every learner can achieve a globally recognised qualification in urban planning and smart city development. It offers an accessible, career-focused progression pathway that blends practical skills, digital innovation, and sustainability expertise for success in the modern urban environment.

FAQs

The ICTQual AB Level 2 International Diploma in Urban Planning and Smart Cities is a globally recognised qualification designed to introduce learners to the principles of sustainable urban development, smart infrastructure, and digital city planning. This 3-month, 30-credit diploma provides foundational knowledge and applied skills in areas such as sustainable design, mobility systems, and smart city technologies. The course equips learners with the technical and conceptual tools needed to contribute to modern, intelligent, and eco-friendly urban environments.

This course is ideal for learners who are passionate about urban design, city planning, or sustainability and wish to start or advance their careers in these growing fields. It is suitable for fresh learners with no prior experience as well as professionals working in planning, construction, or digital infrastructure who want to validate their expertise. The programme supports individuals aiming to work in roles such as urban planning assistant, smart city technician, or sustainability support officer.

The ICTQual AB Level 2 International Diploma in Urban Planning and Smart Cities offers learners a wide range of professional and academic advantages. It provides practical knowledge of sustainable planning principles and smart technology integration in urban systems. Learners develop real-world problem-solving, project planning, and data-driven design skills applicable across global markets. Graduates gain career-ready expertise that enhances employability in both public and private sectors while opening pathways to advanced diplomas and professional certifications in urban planning, design, and smart city development.

ICTQual AB Level 2 International Diploma in Urban Planning and Smart Cities course is offered in various formats, including online, in-person, or a combination of both. Participants can choose the format that best fits their schedule and learning preferences. But final decision is made by ATC.

Yes, ICTQual AB Level 2 International Diploma in Urban Planning and Smart Cities of 3 mandatory assessments. These assessments are designed to evaluate participants’ comprehension of course material and their capacity to apply concepts in practical situations. It is mandatory to pass all assessments to achieve this qualification.