The curriculum leading to the professional graduate degree in regional and community planning prepares students for a variety of career opportunities found within the planning profession. Special emphasis is placed on learning the planning process; collecting and analyzing data; thinking critically and creatively and creating alternative scenarios for developing a comprehensive community land use and transportation plan; managing the future through development of such regulatory tools as the zoning ordinance, subdivision regulations, and fiscal budgeting; and working with people in fashioning a vision of the future that is realistic, attainable, and sustainable. Understanding the environment and the role of the planner in preserving both the natural and built environment is critical to success in maintaining or improving the quality of life in our communities.
The regional and community planning program is fully accredited by the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) and the American Planning Association (APA) through the Planning Accreditation Board at the master’s level.
Students in the planning program should have access to a computer for assignments, but it is not required. Judicious use of the program computer facilities and/or college computing laboratory makes owning a computer a matter of convenience.
The planning program requires a minimum of 18 credit hours of university general education (UGE) electives, of which at least 6 credit hours must be in courses numbered 300 or above. At least 15 credit hours must be in courses taken outside the college. No more than two UGE courses may be taken in a single discipline. A current listing of UGE electives may be found on the webpage.
A listing of departmental professional electives that lead to a minor in community planning or a graduate certificate in community planning and development can be found on the departmental website. Students seeking a dual degree in regional and community planning should speak with the program director.
It is important to refer to the college website for current information regarding this program. This curriculum is subject to constant review and change without notice. Students should obtain a copy of the current curriculum when they enter the program.
Master’s degree requirements
