Digital Twins and 3D Tools for Urban Planning

As cities grow more complex, the need for accurate, data-driven planning tools has never been greater. Digital twins and 3D modelling are transforming how we design, plan and manage urban environments. They enable better decisions, more efficient infrastructure and more sustainable development.

This course introduces the foundations of 3D digital modelling and spatial digital twins, combining theory with hands-on practice. You’ll learn how to create, manage and visualise 3D urban data using tools like SketchUp, PostGIS and QGIS. Through practical exercises and guided learning, you’ll gain the skills to support smarter planning, analysis and communication in the built environment.

What will I learn?

You'll gain in-demand technical expertise in GIS, 3D modelling and database management systems, alongside a strong theoretical foundation in urban data visualisation. More than just creating 3D models, you’ll learn how to use them strategically to transform raw spatial data into powerful tools that drive informed planning, impactful policy and visionary design.

By the end of the course, you'll be able to:

• Demonstrate both theoretical and practical grounding to be competent and confident in understanding, modelling and visualising urban data.
• Develop skills in relevant 3D computer technologies (GIS, DBMS) and a critical appreciation of technology transfer in practice in the changing global context.
• Critically assess the process and role 3D modelling for Urban Digital Twins.
• Demonstrate theoretical and practical knowledge of 3D modelling and visualisation applications and their capabilities.

Whether you're advancing in urban planning, architecture or smart city innovation, this course provides future-focused skills that will shape more efficient, sustainable and responsive cities.

How will I learn?

This course is 100% online and on-demand. The flexible design enables you to set your own pace and schedule. It includes recorded lectures, readings, learning activities and self-directed study.

The total volume of learning is 25 hours.

On completion of the course, you will receive a Certificate of Completion and a digital badge from UNSW.

Who should take this course?

The course will be relevant to students, researchers and professionals in urban planning, architecture, GIS and the built environment who want to develop practical skills in 3D modelling and spatial digital twins.

It is also designed for Government and industry practitioners involved in smart city planning, infrastructure and data-driven decision-making.

Equitable and student rates are available to help ensure access for all participants. If you’d like to discuss these options further, please contact the Short Courses team via ada.sc@unsw.edu.au.

Convenors:

Professor Sisi Zlatanova

Professor Sisi Zlatanova is a Professor at the School of Built Environment and supervises master and PhD students on topics related to 3D spatial modelling and analysis. Her recent research concentrates on 3D Indoor modelling and navigation. She is an author and co-author of more than 300 papers and had edited and co-edited 23 books. She is the president of ISPRS TC IV on Spatial Information science, the treasurer of UDMS and a co-chair of OGC SWG IndoorGML.

Dr Jack Barton

Dr Jack Barton manages Geospatial Research Innovations and Development research cluster (GRID) at UNSW and is an Adjunct Professor at the Far Eastern University, Philippines. He is trained as an architect and specialises in three-dimensional mapping and urban modelling applications.