The main advantage for transport professionals enrolling on the University of Hong Kong (HKU) programme, as opposed to other alternatives available, is that the course is now accredited for Transport Planning Professional (TPP) qualification. As a result, graduates of the programme can use their MSc to demonstrate their underpinning knowledge for TPP and then, once they have sufficient workplace experience, can pass straight to professional review for Chartered Transport Planning Professional (CTPP) status.

Other advantages include the programme’s multidisciplinary element, which gives students a broad understanding of the subject and the opportunity to apply their knowledge. It is the first course in Hong Kong to be approved for TPP.

Students on the Master of Transport Policy and Planning at the University of Hong Kong explore transport planning from multiple perspectives, combining policy, planning, engineering and behavioural change. Students are also able to develop skills in stakeholder engagement, evidence-based decision making and the assessment of transport interventions, supported by industry-led teaching, field visits and real-world projects. 

The TPP approval panel particularly welcomed the programme's strong integration of academic learning with professional practice, and the importance of gaining TPP qualification to help career progression in highways and transportation – or within the ranks of the CIHT – cannot be underestimated. TPP is the recognised professional qualification for transport planners and CTPP is the associated chartered title. 

Achieving CTPP status demonstrates that an individual has met an internationally recognised professional standard, and can evidence both the breadth and depth of competence expected of a transport planning professional. The qualification provides independent recognition of competence and demonstrates a commitment to high professional standards. Many transport planners see CTPP as the benchmark professional qualification for the discipline, in the same way that chartered status is recognised across engineering and other professions.

In order to apply for the TPP qualification, applicants need to demonstrate that they meet both the knowledge and professional competence requirements for TPP. The knowledge requirement can be met through an approved master’s programme, such as HKU’s Master of Transport Planning and Policy, or through other recognised routes. Competence is demonstrated through the submission of a portfolio of evidence, demonstrating how an individual meets the TPP units, before a professional review interview with two reviewers who hold the CTPP title themselves. Candidates need to be able to demonstrate practical application of their knowledge, exercising professional judgment and undertaking continuing professional development (CPD).

Having successfully gained TPP and CTTP qualifications, transport professionals have a wealth of opportunities available to them within the sector throughout their subsequent career. Many individuals progress into senior technical, management and leadership positions within consultancies, local authorities, transport operators, government agencies and academic institutions. The qualification is designed to recognise professional competence rather than prepare people for a single career path, so CTPP registrants can be found across a broad spectrum of transport-related roles.

Having established a working relationship with Hong Kong, there is potential for similar relationships to be forged elsewhere around the world to help more professionals gain TPP qualifications. CIHT has a growing number of chartered transport planners in New Zealand, for example. As a result, it continues to work together with CIHT members in New Zealand and the Transport Planning Society to support transport planners in New Zealand to gain professional registration.

John Challen was in conversation with Cat Goumal, CIHT’s Director of Education, Learning and Training.