Students, please be sure to review the correct Academic Calendar (the year you entered) to understand the specialization requirements that your cohort needs to follow.
Decision Support & Geographical Information Systems (GIS)
Decision support & Geographic information systems uses computer-based mapping and analysis tools along with statistics to help guide community leaders in shaping a better future. You'll find this field exciting if you're technically-oriented. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are used commonly by planners to manage, analyze, and visualize data related to urban planning and resource management. Students completing this specialization will have a sound grasp of the principles of GIS and the means to apply this technology effectively in research capacities and in planning practice.
Environmental Planning and Management
Environmental planning and management is for students intending to integrate ecology and environmental management into their career plans. It is intended for those with an urban focus as well as for students with rural, resource hinterland or park planning interests.
Land Development Planning
This specialization trains planning students to develop or redevelop land in communities. Land development planners practice in complex, high-profile and often contentious decision-making environments. To be effective practitioners in this planning context, students acquire a good working knowledge of land use planning regulations, planning law, policy and land development issues. Graduates with this specialization would be ready to work in the land development industry, municipal planning, or private planning practice.
Urban Design
Urban design focuses on the look and feel of our community. As an urban designer, you can explore the unique and creative ways to produce vibrant and attractive communities with a sense of place. This specialization will acknowledge the student's competence in design and prepare them for work in public and private practice. It will provide a sound foundation for graduate studies in urban design.
Please note there is limited space in the urban design specialization. Students must apply for PLAN 211, one of the required courses, in second year. More information will be communicated when students take PLAN 210.
Students are required to complete and submit a Plan Modification Form to their Academic Advisor to add a specialization to their program. For more information, contact your Undergraduate Advisor.