Program Overview

Program Overview

The Planning for Non-Planners course is an introduction to the practice of urban planning and how to build more sustainable, vibrant, and inclusive communities and physical environments.

Course Description

This course offers a special focus on planning and development issues in the Metro Vancouver region, and the planners’ role in building cities. Students will explore the interrelationships between the physical, environmental, economic, social, and built considerations in planning at the site, neighbourhood, city, and regional scales.

Course Objectives

After completing this course, students will be able to:

• Describe key theories and issues concerning urban planning and development that have shaped contemporary cities and regions in Canada
• Describe key objectives of the Metro Vancouver Regional Growth Strategy and other region-wide initiatives
• Explain the basic process and structure of urban plans and policies in municipalities
• Identify the tools planners can use to influence development of communities

Course Format

The course will include:

• Instructor-led presentations
• Class discussions
• Assignments

Evaluation

Students will be evaluated on:

• Assignments

Target Audience

This introductory course is for both professionals and engaged citizens with an interest in learning about the field of community planning in Metro Vancouver.

Learning Materials

No textbook is required. All course materials will be provided online.

Technical Requirements

For online courses, students will need a computer with audio and microphone that is connected to the internet. Canvas is the online system that will be used for the course.

Professional Development Credits

AIBC CES participants, PIBC members, and BCSLA members may self-report for continuing education learning unit consideration.

Course Details

• Location: Online
• Duration: 4 evenings
• Tuition: $367.50

Upcoming Offerings

• Start Date: Wed, Jan 21, 2026
  • Schedule:
    • Wed, Jan 21, 6:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Pacific Time (virtual class)
    • Wed, Jan 28, 6:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Pacific Time (virtual class)
    • Wed, Feb 4, 6:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Pacific Time (virtual class)
    • Wed, Feb 11, 6:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Pacific Time (virtual class)
  • Location: Online
  • Instructor: Neal LaMontagne
  • Cost: $350.00
  • Seats Available: 30
• Start Date: Mon, May 25, 2026
  • Schedule:
    • Mon, May 25, 6:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Pacific Time (virtual class)
    • Mon, Jun 1, 6:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Pacific Time (virtual class)
    • Mon, Jun 8, 6:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Pacific Time (virtual class)
    • Mon, Jun 15, 6:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Pacific Time (virtual class)
  • Location: Online
  • Instructor: Neal LaMontagne
  • Cost: $350.00
  • Seats Available: 35