Tom Linton-Smith

Head and shoulder Image of Tom Linton-Smith

Transport Planning MSc – 2017

I particularly valued learning from the expert guest lecturers, who brought the theory to life by demonstrating how it applies in real-world scenarios.

Why did you choose the University of Westminster?

I was looking for a course that covered a broad range of transport planning topics, taught by expert researchers and specialist practitioners in each area. I also needed a structure that could fit around my other commitments. The University of Westminster ticked all the boxes - and more. The teaching facilities and learning resources are excellent, which really added to the appeal.


How has your experience been studying in London?

London is incredibly diverse - both in terms of its people and its built environment. The Marylebone campus, right in central London, was an ideal base. It allowed me to see urban transport planning ideas in practice all around me. One of the best things about studying in this location was how attractive it was to professionals already working in London who were looking to expand their knowledge and gain qualifications. This created a great network of peers at various stages in their careers and gave me valuable insight into how the theory we learned could be applied practically.


What have you particularly enjoyed about your course?

The Transport Planning MSc gave me a strong grounding in key transport planning concepts and opened a completely new career path in sustainability and active travel. It helped me build confidence in asking the right questions about complex topics - something I still benefit from today. 
I particularly valued learning from the expert guest lecturers, who brought the theory to life by demonstrating how it applies in real-world scenarios.


How have you found academic support as part of your studies?

I was offered a lot of support throughout my course, especially when it came to shaping my projects and making sure I stayed on track to complete my studies on time.


Are there any stand-out facilities associated with your course?

The library was a standout resource for me - not just as a quiet and comfortable study space, but also for its wide access to journals and books relevant to my subject.
Tell us about any activities that you have undertaken outside of your course 
As part of the course, we had a two-day study trip, which was popular. It offered a wide range of experiences and helped put our learning into a broader context. It was a great way to apply what we were studying to real-world situations.


What's the best aspect of being a University of Westminster student?

Knowing that you are gaining a high-quality and respected qualification, with plenty of opportunities for career development, has been one of the best parts of studying here.
What was the most surprising or unexpected aspect of your Westminster experience?
I was pleasantly surprised by the range of people I met during the course - career changers, early-career professionals, and those from international backgrounds. It was a real mix, and I now consider many of them part of my professional network.