Urban Planning

The Urban Planning Certificate is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to confront the pressing challenges of today's urbanized world. This program addresses the growing demand for skilled urban planners who can navigate complex issues such as climate change, urban sprawl, and social inequities. Our curriculum merges theoretical insights with practical application, and focuses on sustainable, eco-friendly, and people-centered urban planning and design principles.

The urban planning certificate program is designed to serve as a multifaceted platform for students aspiring to make significant contributions to urban environments. With an emphasis on transfer preparation, the program lays a strong foundation in the principles and practices of urban planning, aligning its curriculum to ensure that upon completing the certificate students are well-equipped to pursue further education in the field. 

Recognizing the vitality of workforce preparation, the program offers a curriculum enriched with practical experiences, from internships to cooperative education, enabling students to enter the professional realm with confidence and competence. Through comprehensive instruction and application, students sharpen their analytical and problem-solving abilities, crucial for navigating the complexities of urban planning and development in the field. Simultaneously, the program nurtures communication proficiency, preparing students to articulate their visions and strategies eloquently and persuasively. 

The program fosters an appreciation for the societal impact of urban planning. It encompasses the historical, ethical, and participatory dimensions of the discipline, ensuring that students grasp the significance of civic engagement and ethical decision-making. This aspect of the program is vital for those who will shape not only physical spaces but also the societal frameworks that serve urban life. 

Finally, the program is tailored to serve a local purpose, addressing the unique urban planning challenges specific to the community. It forges connections between students and local professionals and incorporates local and regional case studies, thus grounding theoretical knowledge in real-world practice. This focus ensures that the program is not only academically rigorous but also deeply relevant and responsive to the immediate environment.

Program Objectives

• Courses will cover sustainable urban design principles, such as green infrastructure, renewable energy integration, and low-impact development.

• Students will learn what environmental impact assessments are and will be able to integrate findings into urban planning designs.

• The program will emphasize the development of green spaces and sustainable transportation options in urban environments.

Program Requirements:

Completion of 18 credit hours in designated design and geography courses.

Prerequisites:

Applicants to the Urban Planning Certificate Program should possess a high school diploma or equivalent. Prior coursework in social sciences or environmental studies is recommended but not required.