City and Regional Planning

Program Overview

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The City and Regional Planning program at The Ohio State University equips students with the skills and knowledge to address urban challenges such as economic development, affordable housing, and sustainable urban development. Through hands-on learning, interdisciplinary collaboration, and a global perspective, students develop professional competency in planning principles, design, implementation, and communication. Graduates are eligible for AICP certification and pursue careers in city planning, urban design, and related fields.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

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Overview:

The City and Regional Planning program at The Ohio State University prepares students to become innovative thinkers who are passionate about improving the quality of life in cities, towns, and regions. Students develop the skills and knowledge necessary to address issues such as economic development, affordable housing, green energy, land preservation, public transit, and sustainable urban development.

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Objectives:

• Develop professional competency in the art and science of planning, design, plan implementation, communication, history/theory, and professional practice.
• Emphasize practical application of traditional and evolving knowledge and skills as the foundation for professional competence and individualized enrichment.
• Foster creativity in combining planning principles, social and environmental consciousness, and communication to address people's relationship to their community.

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Outline:

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Program Content:

• Planning principles and theories
• Urban design
• Economic development
• Environmental planning
• Transportation planning
• Housing policy
• Community engagement
• Geographic information systems (GIS)
• Data analysis and visualization

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Program Structure:

• First two years: Focus on general education requirements and foundational planning skills.
• Third year: Develop a strong background in resilience and sustainability in planning, participatory citizen processes, and urban design.
• Last two years: Complete two studio courses with real-world clients, create a professional portfolio, and complete a course on professional skills development.

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Course Schedule:

• Required courses:
• Creating Innovative Cities and Regions (CRPLAN 2110)
• The Socially Just City (CRPLAN 3550)
• Planning Theory and Practice (CRPLAN 4100)
• Urban Design Studio (CRPLAN 4200)
• Planning Implementation (CRPLAN 4300)
• Professional Skills Development (CRPLAN 4400)
• Elective courses:
• Students can choose from a wide range of elective courses to tailor their program to their interests and career goals.

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Individual Modules with Descriptions:

• Creating Innovative Cities and Regions (CRPLAN 2110): Introduces students to the field of city and regional planning, exploring the history, theories, and practices of planning.
• The Socially Just City (CRPLAN 3550): Examines the role of planning in promoting social justice and equity in cities and regions.
• Planning Theory and Practice (CRPLAN 4100): Provides a comprehensive overview of planning theory and its application in practice.
• Urban Design Studio (CRPLAN 4200): Offers hands-on experience in urban design, focusing on the principles and techniques of creating livable and sustainable urban environments.
• Planning Implementation (CRPLAN 4300): Covers the processes and techniques involved in implementing planning decisions, including public engagement, zoning, and land use regulation.
• Professional Skills Development (CRPLAN 4400): Prepares students for the professional world of planning, developing skills in communication, project management, and ethical decision-making.

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Assessment:

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Assessment Methods:

• Exams
• Quizzes
• Projects
• Presentations
• Studio work
• Portfolio development

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Assessment Criteria:

• Understanding of planning principles and theories
• Analytical and problem-solving skills
• Communication and presentation abilities
• Design and implementation skills
• Professionalism and ethical conduct

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Teaching:

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Teaching Methods:

• Lectures
• Discussions
• Studio work
• Field trips
• Guest speakers
• Online learning

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Faculty:

• The program is taught by a team of experienced faculty members who are actively involved in research and professional practice.

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Unique Approaches:

• Emphasis on practical application: The program emphasizes hands-on learning through studio courses, internships, and research projects.
• Interdisciplinary collaboration: Students collaborate with faculty and students from other disciplines, such as architecture, landscape architecture, and public policy.
• Global perspective: The program encourages students to participate in study abroad programs and engage with international planning issues.

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Careers:

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Potential Career Paths:

• City and regional planner
• Urban designer
• Economic development specialist
• Environmental planner
• Transportation planner
• Housing policy analyst
• Community development director
• Planning consultant

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Opportunities:

• Graduates are eligible to sit for certification by the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) after three years of professional work experience.
• Graduates are competitive for admission to national and international graduate programs in city and regional planning or related disciplines.

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Outcomes:

• Ohio State graduates of the city and regional planning program have been successful in finding positions throughout Ohio and across the country, including major cities such as Chicago, San Francisco, New York City, Orlando, Baltimore, and Washington, D.C.
• The median salary for graduates with less than three years of experience is $52,000.
• The American Planning Association (APA) reports a median annual salary of $79,000 (2018).