GRID planners scholarship announced

The University of Glasgow - anchor partner of Glasgow Riverside Innovation District (GRID) - has announced two pioneering fully-funded postgraduate scholarships aimed at addressing the critical shortage of accredited planners in Scotland's economy and driving forward sustainable urban transformation.

The awards will provide full tuition coverage for either the MSc in City Planning or the MSc in City Planning & Real Estate, both offered through the University’s newly rejuvenated suite of RTPI-accredited Masters programmes.

In addition, recipients will receive a £13,000 stipend, enabling the next generation of planning professionals to immerse themselves in advanced study within one of the UK’s most dynamic urban environments.

Strategic

These scholarships are part of a strategic initiative by the University and GRID to support Scotland’s planning profession in light of increasing demand and renewed focus from both the UK and Scottish Governments.

• The Health Innovation Hub in Govan is one of the sites taking shape in GRID

With the planning system playing an essential role in shaping the nation’s economic and environmental future, this investment will help ensure Scotland has the skills and leadership it needs to grow sustainably and equitably.

GRID — a net zero innovation district bringing together world-class academic research and enterprise — is designed to spark transformational change across the region and beyond.

Through GRID, the University of Glasgow is fostering collaboration between public bodies, private companies, and social enterprises to unlock new economic opportunities and deliver long-term impact.

We are delighted to launch this initiative, which not only offers full financial support to broaden the opportunities for students looking to undertake a Masters in planning studies and gain a truly unique educational experience, but also makes a meaningful contribution to the profession at a critical time for Scotland’s economy.

Liam Middleton

Successful applicants will not only receive financial support, but also a unique opportunity to apply their skills through a GRID ‘major project’ as part of their dissertation. These projects will tackle live themes aligned with GRID’s masterplanning and community engagement priorities, offering students real-world insight and meaningful experience.

Students will also benefit from direct engagement with key GRID partners, including time with Glasgow City Council’s Planning Department and an internship opportunity with industry partner ScottishPower, gaining a unique and invaluable exposure to both public and private sector practice.

Liam Middleton, deputy director of Economic Development, University of Glasgow, said: “We are delighted to launch this initiative, which not only offers full financial support to broaden the opportunities for students looking to undertake a Masters in planning studies and gain a truly unique educational experience, but also makes a meaningful contribution to the profession at a critical time for Scotland’s economy. 

“It reflects the University of Glasgow’s commitment to economic and civic impact, and demonstrates the power of the GRID programme to convene academia, industry, and the public sector to solve challenges and drive sustainable urban development in the district, supporting our next generation of planning professionals.”

Investment

The University is currently progressing several major capital investment projects as part of its ambitious Campus Development Programme. These span sectors including Manufacturing, Health Innovation, Cultural and Creative Industries, Residential, Retail, and Leisure.

Additionally, the University and GRID are developing a masterplan for the Innovation District itself — an area covering over 700 acres, including significant vacant and derelict land, which is being reimagined to better serve the city and its communities.