Urban and Environmental Planning

Program Overview

The Master of Urban and Environmental Planning (MUEP) program at ASU equips students with the skills to address complex urban and environmental issues. The program emphasizes practical projects, small classes, and hands-on learning experiences. Graduates are prepared for careers in planning consulting, local governments, community organizations, and more. The program is accredited by the Planning Accreditation Board and offers professional certification eligibility.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• Overview: The MUEP program prepares students to address complex social, economic and environmental issues, creating healthier, safer, and more vibrant communities.
It focuses on planning theories, analysis methods, public engagement, planning processes, and implementing planning tools, strategies, and approaches.
• Objectives: The program aims to equip graduates with the skills to:
• Analyze complex urban and environmental problems.
• Design and implement effective solutions.
• Engage diverse communities in the planning process.
• Lead change and promote sustainability.
• Description: The MUEP program is a two-year professional degree program offered by the School of Geographical Sciences and Urban Planning at ASU.
The program emphasizes practical projects and small classes to provide a strong foundation in planning principles and practice.
• Accreditation: The program is accredited by the Planning Accreditation Board.
• Professional Certification: Graduates are eligible for certification by the American Institute of Certified Planners after two years of professional practice.

Outline:

• Structure: The MUEP program consists of 47 credit hours, including:
• Required Core (21 credit hours):
Covers fundamental planning concepts, methods, ethics, law, land use planning, and quantitative and qualitative research methods.
• Electives (14 or 15 credit hours): Students choose electives to specialize in areas of interest, such as environmental planning, transportation planning, housing, or urban design.
• Other Requirements (6 credit hours): Includes coursework in environmental planning, GIS, and a culminating experience (thesis, applied project, or practicum).
• Course Schedule: The program offers courses in the fall and spring semesters, with some online options available.
However, the curriculum can be considered as consisting of the following modules:
• Planning Theory and Practice:
Covers the history, ethics, and processes of planning, including public engagement and legal frameworks.
• Urban Land Use Planning: Focuses on land use regulations, development processes, and urban design principles.
• Environmental Planning: Addresses environmental impact assessment, sustainability, and climate resilience.
• Quantitative and Qualitative Research Methods: Equips students with the skills to analyze data, conduct research, and evaluate planning initiatives.
• Elective Modules: Allow students to specialize in specific areas of interest, such as transportation, housing, or community development.

Assessment:

• Assessment Methods: The program utilizes a variety of assessment methods, including:
• Exams and quizzes
• Assignments and projects
• Presentations
• Term papers
• Thesis or applied project (depending on the chosen culminating experience)
• Assessment Criteria: The program evaluates student performance based on:
• Knowledge of planning theory and practice
• Analytical and problem-solving skills
• Research and writing abilities
• Communication and presentation skills
• Ability to apply planning principles to real-world situations

Teaching:

• Teaching Methods: The program employs a variety of teaching methods, including:
• Lectures and discussions
• Case studies and simulations
• Fieldwork and community engagement
• Guest speakers and expert panels
• Technology-enhanced learning
• Faculty: The program is taught by faculty with expertise in diverse areas of urban and environmental planning, including:
• City building and urban structure
• Environmental and resiliency planning
• Housing, neighborhoods, and community development
• Spatial analytics and smart cities
• Transportation planning and policy
• Unique Approaches: The program emphasizes hands-on learning through projects, field experiences, and community engagement.
Students have opportunities to collaborate with faculty on research and work on real-world planning projects.

Careers:

• Career Opportunities: Graduates of the MUEP program find employment in various sectors, including:
• Planning consulting firms
• Local governments
• Community organizations
• Non-profit organizations
• Private companies
• Career Examples:
• City and regional planning aide
• Social services director
• Sustainability specialist
• Transportation planner
• The program is offered online and on-campus.
• Students can pursue concurrent degrees with Public Administration, Public Policy, or Sustainability Solutions.
• The program offers an accelerated bachelor's plus master's degree option with select undergraduate programs.
• Graduates can pursue professional licensure in the planning field, depending on their career goals and the state they intend to work in.