Urban Planning and Sustainable Development, BA
Program Overview
The Urban Planning and Sustainable Development (UPSD) program at Western Washington University is a nationally accredited, multi-disciplinary degree that prepares students for careers in planning cities and regions. The program emphasizes social and environmental justice, equipping graduates with the knowledge and skills to make positive changes towards a more just and sustainable world. The comprehensive curriculum integrates urban planning with knowledge from diverse fields, including sustainable design, environmental policy, and environmental sciences. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in various fields, including urban planning, sustainable development consulting, and environmental policy analysis.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Urban Planning and Sustainable Development (UPSD) program at Western Washington University is a nationally accredited, multi-disciplinary professional degree that prepares students for careers in planning cities and regions.
The program emphasizes progressive change, social and environmental justice, and equips graduates with the knowledge and skills needed to make positive changes towards a more just and sustainable world.
Objectives:
- Promote social and environmental justice: The program focuses on addressing issues like climate change, fair housing, urban design, sustainable transportation, and natural resource management through an equity lens.
- Develop planning skills: Students learn to design and implement solutions for sustainable communities, from local to global levels.
- Prepare for professional careers: Graduates are equipped with the knowledge and skills to work in public planning agencies, consulting firms, and non-profit organizations at various levels.
Outline:
The UPSD program offers a comprehensive curriculum that integrates urban planning with knowledge from diverse fields, including:
- Sustainable design: Students learn about sustainable design principles and their application in urban planning.
- Environmental policy: The program explores environmental policy frameworks and their impact on urban development.
- Native Nations and Indigenous communities: Students gain understanding of the unique needs and perspectives of Indigenous communities in urban planning.
- Environmental sciences: The curriculum incorporates environmental science principles to inform sustainable planning practices.
Sample Courses:
- UEPP 360 - Plan Graphics and Site Design: Methods in Urban Design
- UEPP 470 - Planning Studio I: Urban Design Methods
- UEPP 472 - Planning Studio II: Plan Development
- UEPP 474 - Planning for Sustainable Communities
- UEPP 475 - Community Development and Participatory Methods
Assessment:
The UPSD program uses a variety of assessment methods to evaluate student learning outcomes, including:
- Examinations: Tests and quizzes assess students' understanding of key concepts and theories.
- Assignments: Individual and group projects allow students to apply their knowledge to real-world problems.
- Presentations: Students present their research and findings to their peers and faculty.
- Portfolio development: Students compile a portfolio showcasing their skills and accomplishments throughout the program.
Teaching:
The UPSD program features a dedicated faculty with expertise in various aspects of urban planning and sustainable development. Teaching methods include:
- Interactive lectures: Professors engage students in active learning through discussions and case studies.
- Hands-on projects: Students gain practical experience through real-world projects with community partners.
- Field trips: Students visit and learn from exemplary planning projects and initiatives in the region.
- Study abroad opportunities: The program offers opportunities to study planning in other countries and broaden their perspectives.
Careers:
Graduates of the UPSD program are well-prepared for careers in various fields, including:
- Urban Planner: Public and private sector planning agencies
- County planner: Local government planning departments
- Regional Planner: Regional planning organizations
- Sustainable Development Consultant: Consulting firms specializing in sustainable development
- Planning Consultant: Private planning firms offering consulting services
- Environmental Planner: Government agencies and environmental organizations
- Natural Resources Policy Analyst: Government agencies and environmental organizations
- Non-Profit Organizations: Advocacy organizations focused on social and environmental justice
Other:
The UPSD program offers unique opportunities for students to engage in real-world experiences, including:
- Urban Planning Club: Students can participate in discussions, film screenings, and field trips to deepen their understanding of urban planning issues.
- AICP Candidacy Pilot Program: Graduating students are eligible for fast-track membership in the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP).
- Community Partnerships: Students collaborate with local communities on projects through programs like the Urban Transitions Studio and Sustainable Communities Partnership.
- Study Abroad: The program offers international study opportunities to expand students' perspectives and understanding of global planning issues.
