You can do a degree and then join an organisation as a trainee transport planner. Most subjects are accepted though you may have an advantage if you study:

• geography
• civil engineering
• economics
• town planning
• environmental science
• business studies

Many graduates go on to do a postgraduate qualification in transport planning approved by the Transport Planning Society.

Getting work experience through internships, summer placements or a year in industry may give you an advantage when applying for graduate roles. Your university careers service can help you to find opportunities during your studies.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
• a degree in any subject for a postgraduate course

You can apply to do a Transport Planning Technician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship, or Transport Scheduler Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship.

You might then move on to do a Transport Planner Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship

You'll need:

• knowledge of transport methods, costs and benefits
• maths knowledge
• knowledge of engineering science and technology
• design skills and knowledge
• analytical thinking skills
• the ability to work well with others
• complex problem-solving skills
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently

In this role you could:

• simulate transport problems using computer models
• analyse and interpret data from transport studies
• forecast the impact of new developments like shopping centres
• look at schemes to manage traffic, like congestion charging or parking controls
• study accident 'black spots' to design road safety improvements
• write reports for funding bids and planning authorities
• act as an expert witness during public enquiries
• promote the benefits of public transport, cycling and walking to get around

You could work in an office or visit sites.