Some urban planning certificate programs
offer a selection of classes online; however, students are still
required to attend some classes on campus. The hybrid programs allow
urban planners to keep up-to-date on regulations and the latest trends
in regional planning and land use.
Online Certificate in Urban Planning Overview
A few schools offer professional certificates in urban planning with
some online classes, but even these hybrid programs are rare. These
programs instruct students on important issues and trends in urban
development such as smart growth planning and environmental regulation.
Region-specific or project-oriented online options exist for
non-certificate programs.
Urban planning certificate programs are generally intended for
professionals already in the field or adults looking to explore a new
field, so classes are usually offered nights and weekends. Most programs
require around 10 classes, or 30 credits, taken over 2-5 years.
Although all classes are taught on campus, some online alternatives
are offered for general classes. Online classes are compatible with both
Windows and Macintosh systems and usually have some minimum software
requirements in programs such as Flash and Adobe. A high-speed internet
connection and good speakers are suggested as well.
List of Common Urban Planning Courses
Common courses in urban planning certificate programs cover urban
planning specifics, with a few chosen electives in related fields.
Although most programs don't have specific prerequisites, classes within
programs are often sequential and must be taken in order. Classes
offered online, such as the ones listed below, tend to be
lecture-oriented.
Urban Planning Processes Course
Urban planners must stay current with changing local and national
guidelines. This course covers these guidelines, as well as addressing
the political, environmental and economic processes involved in urban
development.
Historic Preservation Course
Urban planning often involves a complex set of decisions surrounding
the preservation and restoration of historic buildings. This course
offers instruction in historic districts and regulations, previous
preservation projects and adaptive reuse of existing structures.
Project Management Essentials
Urban planners deliver large and small projects within budget, time
and quality specifications. This class explores best practices for a
project from inception to maintenance, which include everything from
risk management to assembling a support team.
Introduction to Sustainability
As development continues to spread, urban planners must be aware of
the effect on the natural environment. This class covers sustainable
materials and design, habitat displacement, energy efficiency and water
use. Also discussed are local and regional codes surrounding
sustainability.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the 2008
median salary for urban planners was just under $60,000. Approximately
1/3 of urban planners worked for a government-related employer. Urban
planning is a growing field, with the BLS anticipating jobs in the field
to increase by 19% between 2008 and 2018.
Most entry-level jobs in urban planning require a minimum of a
master's degree, which is offered at more than 60 schools in the U.S.
with graduate programs in urban planning. Regional programs, some of
which are online, offer project-specific or task-specific training for
urban planners.
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