Bachelor of Science in Planning

Program Overview

---

Arizona State University's Urban Planning program equips students with the knowledge and skills to plan and shape urban areas, addressing issues like housing, infrastructure, and sustainability. Through a combination of lectures, seminars, case studies, and field trips, students develop expertise in social, political, economic, and physical aspects of urban development, preparing them for careers in public, private, and nonprofit sectors.

Program Outline

---

Urban Planning, BSP at Arizona State University

---

Degree Overview:

This program equips students with the necessary knowledge and tools to effectively plan and shape urban areas, considering issues like housing, infrastructure, environmental sustainability, and community needs. Through the program, students:

• Develop expertise in various areas: Students will gain proficiency in social, political, economic, and physical issues affecting urban and regional development, equipping them to address multifaceted challenges with a holistic approach.

---

On-campus (2024 - 2025 Major Map):

---

1st Semester:

• PP 391 Foundations of Planning (3)
• PSY 101 General Psychology (3)
• PP 389 Introduction to Planning Theory (3)

---

2nd Semester:

• MAT 142 College Mathematics (3) or higher-level mathematics course
• PP 492 Intro to Planning Methods & Analytic Skills (3)
• SSC 312 Statistics for the Social Sciences (3) or another approved statistics course

---

3rd Semester:

• PP 400 Introduction to Environmental Planning and Design (3)
• GEU 411 Land Use Law & Planning Policy (3)
• ECON 311 Principles of Microeconomics (3)

---

4th Semester:

• PP 491 Planning Law (3)
• HST 320 Urban History (3)

---

5th Semester:

• PP 404 Urban Design Studio 1 (3)
• PP 494 Planning Process & Communication (3)
• SOC 408 Urban Sociology (3)

---

6th Semester:

• PP 405 Urban Design Studio 2 (3)
• PP 493 Comprehensive Planning (3)
• ENG 302 Professional Writing (3)

---

7th Semester:

• PP 411 Planning Practicum (3) or internship
• GEO 421 Urban Transportation Systems (3) or other approved elective
• Elective (3)

---

8th Semester:

• PP 499 Capstone (3)
• Senior Seminar (3)
• Elective (3)

---

9th Semester:

• Elective (3)
• Elective (3)
• Elective (3)

---

Online format (2024 - 2025 Major Map):

The course format and structure in the online program may differ slightly from the on-campus version.

---

Assessment:

Students' understanding is evaluated through various assessments including:

• Examinations: These assessments may include a mix of short-answer questions, essay responses, and case studies, depending on the specific course and its learning outcomes.
• Projects: Students will undertake individual and/or group projects to apply their learning and develop problem-solving skills in real-world scenarios.
These projects can involve research, data analysis, design proposals, or community engagement activities, depending on the assignment requirements.
• Presentations: Students may be asked to deliver presentations based on their projects or research, allowing them to hone their communication skills and articulate their ideas effectively.
• Class participation: Active involvement in discussions, class activities, and contributing to a positive learning environment will also play a role in overall assessment.
The specific weighting of these assessment elements may vary depending on the individual course.

---

Teaching:

The program employs a diverse range of teaching methodologies to engage students and promote effective learning, including:

• Lectures: Experienced faculty members deliver interactive lectures, introducing key concepts, theories, and frameworks within the urban planning domain.
• Seminars: These smaller-group discussions facilitate in-depth exploration of complex topics, encouraging active student participation, critical thinking, and debate.
• Case studies: Real-world examples and scenarios are incorporated into the curriculum to provide students with a deeper understanding of practical challenges and potential solutions in urban planning.
• Field trips: Site visits and excursions offer students firsthand exposure to various urban environments and planning projects, enhancing their learning and bringing theoretical concepts to life.
The faculty members in the program are renowned for their expertise in various urban planning fields. They possess a wealth of experience, both academic and professional, and are actively engaged in research, consulting, and community involvement, bringing real-world insights into the classroom.

---

Careers:

Graduates of the urban planning program are well-prepared for diverse and fulfilling careers in various sectors:

• Public sector: Many graduates find employment within local, regional, or national government agencies, contributing to urban development initiatives, environmental planning, transportation infrastructure development, economic growth strategies, and other public policy domains.
• Private sector: Consultancy firms specializing in urban planning offer exciting opportunities for graduates to work on diverse projects ranging from redevelopment plans, infrastructure projects, environmental impact assessments, and urban design proposals for both private and public clients.
• Nonprofit and community development organizations: These organizations play a vital role in addressing social issues, housing needs, community-driven projects, and grassroots initiatives, offering graduates opportunities to work directly with communities and contribute to positive social impact.
• Real estate development: This sector provides opportunities for graduates to become involved in various stages of real estate projects, including site selection, feasibility studies, project design, marketing, and property management, adding their planning expertise to the development process.
Graduates may specialize in areas like transportation planning, housing, environmental sustainability, economic development, or public engagement depending on their interests and chosen career path.

---

Other:

• Students are encouraged to consider participating in global experience opportunities through study abroad programs.
This allows them to gain exposure to diverse urban challenges and best practices around the world, broadening their perspectives and enhancing their understanding of global trends in urban development.
• Concurrent and accelerated program options are available for students seeking additional academic challenges or wanting to combine urban planning with another degree program, such as Environmental Studies, Public Policy, or Geographic Information Science, thereby enriching their skillsets and expanding career prospects.