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Why major in Urban and Regional Planning?

Planners use their expertise to find creative ways to resolve urban and regional problems, establish sustainable communities, and improve the quality of life. They help communities develop their visions of the future, and formulate plans that respond to community needs and aspirations, conserve natural resources, improve public services and facilities, and manage urban development. Planners are specialized in land use, environmental protection, economic development, transportation, or community development. The URPL program prepares students to compete for professional planning jobs and to pursue graduate education. Obtaining a planning degree enables you to be involved in public and private activities that shape the future of your communities and states.

Visit our catalog to see the requirements for the tracks and minor:

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For more information about Urban and Regional Planning, contact program director Dr. Amal K. Ali.

Begin Your Planning Career with the American Planning Association

Planning students can become members of the . The APA membership is free for students who are actively enrolled or matriculated in any university or college degree program. The free membership includes APA, APA chapter, and AICP membership in addition to membership in up to five APA divisions.

Our Alumni

Our alumni are employed in state and local governments, and work with private and nonprofit organizations. A significant portion of our alumni have attended graduate schools. Planners with a Bachelor's degree can qualify for positions as assistant or junior planners. The American Planning Association indicates that a Bachelor's degree in urban planning in addition to one year of planning experience is required for Planner I or Assistant Planner positions, while candidates with a Bachelor's degree and four years of professional planning experience can be accepted for the Planner II level, and those with a Bachelor's degree in planning and six years of professional planning experience can be hired as a Planner III, or Senior Planner. 

What is the Program of Study?

One of the unique characteristics of the URPL program is its multidisciplinary orientation that enables students to understand complex urban and regional issues. The required core classes give students a solid background in planning and related disciplines. Students choose one of two tracks (Land Use Planning or Environmental Planning) that are needed in the State of Maryland and nationwide. Students are strongly recommended to complete one minor.