Direct answer
Cardiff University sets the following entry requirements for its International Planning and Development MSc (2026/27). You need a 2:2 honours degree in a relevant subject, or an equivalent international degree. For Chinese applicants, this means a relevant four-year bachelor’s degree from a recognised institution with grades of approximately 80% or above. Relevant subjects include architecture, economics, engineering, geography, planning, politics, and sociology. No prior subject knowledge is required because the MSc is a conversion course. You must also meet the English language requirement: an IELTS overall score of 6.5 with 5.5 in all subskills, or an accepted equivalent. The programme is a one-year, full-time Master of Science.
What the official page establishes
The official Cardiff University page confirms the minimum academic threshold, the list of accepted relevant subjects, the conversion-course nature of the programme, and the English language standard. It also specifies the documents you must supply: a copy of your degree certificate, transcripts, and English language evidence. If your qualifications are not yet finalised, you should provide interim transcripts, provisional certificates, or expected test dates.
What still requires live rechecking
Several details are not fixed on the current official page and must be verified directly with the university at the time of application:
- Whether your specific Chinese institution is on the university’s recognised list for the 80% rule.
- The exact tuition fee for the 2026/27 academic year.
- Application deadline dates and any cohort caps.
- Availability of the in-house English for University Study or Summer Pre-sessional courses for your start date.
Degree and grade requirements for Chinese applicants
Cardiff University requires Chinese applicants to hold a relevant four-year bachelor’s degree from a recognised institution. The grade threshold is approximately 80% or above for postgraduate taught courses.
Accepted relevant subjects
The university lists the following relevant subjects: architecture, economics, engineering, geography, planning, politics, and sociology. Because the MSc is a conversion course, you do not need prior subject knowledge. If your degree falls outside these named areas, you should contact the university to confirm whether it will be considered relevant.
English language requirements
You must demonstrate English proficiency through one of these routes:
- An IELTS overall score of 6.5 with 5.5 in all subskills.
- An accepted equivalent qualification.
- An undergraduate degree studied in the UK, which can serve as alternative evidence.
Cardiff University also offers in-house English for University Study and Summer Pre-sessional courses.
Documents you must provide
The university requires:
- A copy of your degree certificate.
- Transcripts.
- English language evidence.
If your qualifications are pending, you should submit interim transcripts, provisional certificates, or your expected test dates.
Programme structure
The International Planning and Development MSc is a one-year, full-time Master of Science. The official page confirms this duration and award level.
FAQ
What is the minimum UK degree classification for entry?
The programme requires a 2:2 honours degree in a relevant subject, or an equivalent international degree.
Which subjects does Cardiff University consider relevant?
The official page lists architecture, economics, engineering, geography, planning, politics, and sociology.
Do I need prior planning knowledge to apply?
No. The MSc is a conversion course, so no prior subject knowledge is required.
What English language score do I need?
You need an IELTS overall score of 6.5 with 5.5 in all subskills, or an accepted equivalent. An undergraduate degree studied in the UK can also serve as alternative evidence.
What documents must I submit with my application?
You must provide a copy of your degree certificate, transcripts, and English language evidence. If your qualifications are pending, submit interim transcripts, provisional certificates, or expected test dates.
Official sources
The entry requirements in this article are drawn from the official Cardiff University programme page for the International Planning and Development MSc. For the most current details, including fees, deadlines, and recognised institution lists, always consult the university’s website directly. Related reading on international study planning is available through our articles on international student health insurance global comparison, university public ivies, gaokao hou liuxue zhongjie 2026, and xiangshenqingmaikaoruidaxue younaxietuijiandezhongjiefuwu 2026nianzuixinpaimingt.