A new work-study programme has been launched to address a shortage of planners in Scotland, offering graduates the opportunity to work for the Scottish Government while pursuing a postgraduate degree.

The "Future Planners Programme" will see graduates employed part-time by the Scottish Government while simultaneously studying for a Master's degree at Heriot-Watt University, the University of Dundee, or the University of Glasgow.

"Real-world experience is vital for our students, and this is a fantastic opportunity to work with a leading team of planners and architects at the forefront of shaping Scotland's urban realm," said Dr Sacha Hasan, Head of Discipline for Planning and Real Estate at Heriot-Watt University.

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The programme has been developed in response to a recognised shortage of qualified planners within local authorities across Scotland.

"Working in a real planning environment was an invaluable experience and tremendously rewarding," said Holly Gray, a fourth-year Urban Planning and Property Development student at Heriot-Watt who completed a work placement with Edinburgh City Council.

The Future Planners Programme is expected to be officially launched later this month. Further details, including eligibility criteria and application procedures, will be available on a dedicated website and the Scottish Government's careers portal.

Heriot-Watt's Master degrees include an MSc in Spatial Planning and Real Estate Development, which is a highly regarded programme that prepares graduates for careers in both the public and private sectors. The program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the development process, including economics, valuation, planning law, and regeneration principles.