Effective Fall 2025, DGS will become the Division of Exploratory Studies. Same mission; new name.

Urban Studies & Planning

Major Description

Urban Studies & Planning looks at the way our cities are designed, constructed, and planned. It studies the socio-economic factors and conditions behind housing projects in the city while also studying the effect of public transportation in suburban areas. It emphasizes both an analytical and quantitative approach combining policy, statistics, a sense of history, and more. Urban Planners help us look at the ways we can improve our neighborhoods, preserving some of the past while keeping an eye open for future improvements. The degree is professionally accredited by the Planning Accreditation Board.

Concentrations:
  • Sustainability Concentration
  • Policy and Planning Concentration
  • Social Justice Concentration
  • Global Cities Concentration
Courses That Introduce the Major:
  • UP 101—Introduction to City Planning
  • UP 136—Urban Sustainability
  • UP 185—Cities in a Global Perspective.

Students should consult with an academic advisor regarding course selection prior to the advanced registration period.

Possible Career Opportunities:

Urban planners do many types of jobs and are involved in almost any kind of government or private activity which seeks to affect the future or accommodate community change. 

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  • Analytical and critical thinking skills
  • Computer skills
  • Independent, self-motivated work ethic
  • Interpersonal
  • Leadership
  • Oral/written communication
  • Organizational skills
  • Research
  • Teamwork skills
  • Assistant Associate Planner
  • Associate Planner
  • City Planner
  • Community Planner
  • Land Planner
  • Land Use Environmental Planner
  • Landscape Architect Land Planner
  • Landscape Planner
  • Planner Coordinator Senior Planner
  • Principal Planner
  • Senior Planner
  • Transportation Traffic Planner
  • Urban And Regional Planner
  • Urban Planner

Some careers may require education beyond an undergraduate degree.

Enhancing Your Academic Experience:
  • Participating in undergraduate research
  • Applying for a study abroad experience
  • Utilizing resources of FAA Career Services
  • Joining a Registered Student Organization (RSO) related to this major, such as:
    • Student Planning Organization: SPO's mission is to provide a vehicle for communication between staff, faculty and students in the planning program, provide forums for workshops and discussions, and organize social events for the department.
Further Information:

There are several professional organizations dedicated to Urban Studies & l Planning.  Their websites might be able to provide a glimpse in the world of Urban Studies & Planning.  These organizations include American Planning AssociationUrban Institute, and The Department of Housing and Urban Development.

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