Gemma Bennett is a recent graduate of the Master of Environmental Planning program and an Environmental Strategist working in local government. Her role encompasses a diverse range of projects, from natural asset valuation to emergency management and improving internal environmental planning capacities.
After working in local government for a number of years as an Environmental Strategist, Gemma discovered just how much planning influences local communities and environments. This was the impetus for her undertaking her postgraduate studies.
"When I decided to do a Masters degree, Macquarie was at the top of my list as it has a great reputation for producing excellent planning practitioners. Another factor for choosing Macquarie was that I had completed my undergraduate degree at Macquarie in a Bachelor of Science with Honours," explains Gemma.
When asked what were some highlights about studying the Master of Environmental Planning, Gemma replied: "The degree allowed me to explore areas of research that I was passionate about. Consequently I was able to co-author a journal publication. Also, in the midst of my degree my daughter came along. The academic staff were fantastic. Their patience and flexibility allowed me to continue my studies resulting in me receiving the Vice-Chancellor’s Commendation for Academic Excellence."
The Master of Environmental Planning is a Planning Institute of Australia accredited degree. It develops professional skills and knowledge in matters important to planning practice, while allowing you to pursue your special interests, such as environmental and resources management, sustainable development, urban and regional planning, environmental law and policy and social impact assessment. It provides the opportunity to undertake an applied planning project to demonstrate your skills as an environmental planner, and offers real-life environmental consultancy projects for real clients through the Environmental Management Practice unit.
After working in local government for a number of years as an Environmental Strategist, Gemma discovered just how much planning influences local communities and environments. This was the impetus for her undertaking her postgraduate studies.
"When I decided to do a Masters degree, Macquarie was at the top of my list as it has a great reputation for producing excellent planning practitioners. Another factor for choosing Macquarie was that I had completed my undergraduate degree at Macquarie in a Bachelor of Science with Honours," explains Gemma.
When asked what were some highlights about studying the Master of Environmental Planning, Gemma replied: "The degree allowed me to explore areas of research that I was passionate about. Consequently I was able to co-author a journal publication. Also, in the midst of my degree my daughter came along. The academic staff were fantastic. Their patience and flexibility allowed me to continue my studies resulting in me receiving the Vice-Chancellor’s Commendation for Academic Excellence."
The Master of Environmental Planning is a Planning Institute of Australia accredited degree. It develops professional skills and knowledge in matters important to planning practice, while allowing you to pursue your special interests, such as environmental and resources management, sustainable development, urban and regional planning, environmental law and policy and social impact assessment. It provides the opportunity to undertake an applied planning project to demonstrate your skills as an environmental planner, and offers real-life environmental consultancy projects for real clients through the Environmental Management Practice unit.
