The majority of students engaging in development planning studies do so with the intent of becoming qualified to assist in the preliminary stages of civil engineering or construction projects. This term might also refer to personal or business development courses.

Due to the numerous countries within Oceania, work occasions and work permit laws differ greatly, with data on opportunities in some nations being limited. Australia and New Zealand are the most advanced countries in the area.

Students who hold some secondary education credentials and wish to enter a specific profession might find themselves best served by a graduate diploma program. These courses often take a focused look at a subject over the period of one or two years.