How an Urban Planning Major Prepares You for the Job Market
An urban planning degree prepares students to enter various careers, where they can serve the public and their environmental needs. Urban planning programs focus on the planning, designing and revitalization of urban areas. Students will study the history and theory of urban planning, design, land use, statistics and planning laws. Urban planning students will also examine serious urban challenges and community needs. They learn about city development, housing and environmental issues that are affecting communities across the nation. Students will study the relationship between humans and location, and learn why public buildings are placed where they are. On a more advanced level, urban planning majors focus on the sustainability, security and finances of urban areas, in addition to the politics and social justice that accompanies these topics. Through group projects and individual assignments, students will ponder new ideas for urban planning and think of ways to mediate urban issues.
Best Career Paths for Urban Planning Majors
Urban planning majors have the problem-solving skills and community knowledge to enter several occupations, including these top career paths:
- Urban and Regional Planner. Urban and regional planners make plans to use land for the growth and development of urban, suburban and rural communities. They also determine the placement of public buildings and roads for the advancement of a city, town or neighborhood. Areas for private construction are also mapped out by planners and placed in relation to public buildings. Planners understand the relationship between people and places, therefore, they make sure schools, libraries, roads and shopping malls are conveniently located for public use. They must have a strong sense of location and think about the needs of people living in the city or surrounding areas. Planners take part in detailed long-term projects that can span over 10 to 20 years. They map out how the city or region will look over time by analyzing population changes and economic trends. Some planners handle zoning for housing construction, as well as transportation issues. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, urban and regional planners made an average salary of $59,810 in 2008.
- City Councilman. A city councilman is an elected official responsible to his or her constituency and any matter concerning city planning, administration and overall welfare. One of the primary responsibilities of a city councilman is the creation and amendment of zoning ordinances, which are an integral part of urban planning. Zoning ordinances determine what types of buildings can be built within the city, as well as where businesses and residential houses can be built. City councilmen's salaries depend greatly on the city in which they are elected. On average, a city councilman makes between $13,530 and $38,690 a year, with additional opportunities to run for other political positions.
How to Market Your Urban Planning Degree
Urban planning majors are equipped with city development knowledge and a willingness to serve the public's needs. As an urban planning graduate, you are invested in the well-being of urban areas and want to help people get more from their communities. Your understanding of urban planning, land use and development, as well as the laws concerning these topics, gives you an advantage in the industry, and makes you an ideal candidate for urban development or related work.
