Program Overview
Program Overview
The Urban Planning program at Arizona State University introduces students to the issues faced by urban areas and the tools necessary to address them. Students in the Bachelor of Science in Planning program gain expertise in the analysis and synthesis of the physical, social, political, and economic issues that shape urban and regional development.
Program Description
The program covers comprehensive planning, computer and analytical methods, public policy formulation and administration, socioeconomic and environmental analyses, urban design, and many other fields that urban planning encompasses, such as:
- Geographic information systems
- Housing
- Landscape architecture
- Planning and zoning law
- Transportation
- Urban and development economics
- Utilities
At a Glance
- College/school: The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
- Location: Tempe or Online, ASU Local
- Second language requirement: No
- STEM-OPT extension eligible: No
- First required math course: MAT 114 - College Mathematics
- Math intensity: General
Curriculum
The curriculum for the Urban Planning program can be viewed online.
Concurrent Program Options
Students pursuing concurrent degrees earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. Working with their academic advisors, students can create their own concurrent degree combination. Some combinations are not possible due to high levels of overlap in curriculum.
Accelerated Program Options
This program allows students to obtain both a bachelor's and a master's degree in as little as five years. Accelerated bachelor's plus master's degree programs are designed for high-achieving students who want the opportunity to share undergraduate coursework with graduate coursework to accelerate completion of their master's degree. These programs feature the same high-quality curriculum taught by ASU's world-renowned faculty.
Admission Requirements
All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.
Tuition Information
When it comes to paying for higher education, everyone’s situation is different. Students can learn about ASU tuition and financial aid options to find out which will work best for them.
Change of Major Requirements
A current ASU student has no additional requirements for changing majors.
Attend Online
ASU offers this program in an online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year.
Transfer Options
ASU is committed to helping students thrive by offering tools that allow personalization of the transfer path to ASU. Students may use MyPath2ASU to outline a list of recommended courses to take prior to transfer.
Program Learning Outcomes
Program learning outcomes identify what a student will learn or be able to do upon completion of their program. This program’s learning outcomes include the following:
- Analyze the physical characteristics, social dynamics, and economic conditions that influence urban and regional planning challenges through course projects
- Apply professional planning skills to evaluate urban planning scenarios by utilizing real-world data, simulation tools, and best practices in planning analysis
- Apply professional norms through independent and team-based course projects
Global Opportunities
Through study abroad programs, students of urban planning can gain an understanding of how communities around the world have developed urban areas, and look at urban issues from a global perspective.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the urban planning program pursue career opportunities with private planning firms and governmental planning agencies, mainly at the city level, but also with county, state, and federal entities. Some planners elect to pursue graduate degrees to develop specialty skills and enhance their opportunities for career advancement.
Professional Licensure
ASU programs that may lead to professional licensure or certification are intended to prepare students for potential licensure or certification in Arizona. Completion of an ASU program may not meet educational requirements for licensure or certification in another state.