How to Become an Urban Planner

Urban planners help determine the best use of geographical areas for the placement of homes, parks and commercial areas, as well as relieving traffic congestion and solving pollution problems. Having the right education and experience can help a motivated individual become an urban planner.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

Learn About Urban Planning

1. Have the right coursework. Classes in statistics and computer science are highly preferred.
2. Look for summer jobs or internships through your academic advisor, the career center at your school or a local government office. Many employees prefer applicants with this kind of experience.
3. Find and talk to an experienced urban planner to get her perspective on this particular career path.
4. Acquire the recommended advanced training, such as a Master's degree in urban planning or city design.
5. Seek the classes needed to become certified. This certification is through the American Institute of Certified Planners (see Resources below).

Select the Best Academic Planning Program

6. Find out job placement statistics of a prospective school by contacting its planning department.
7. Ask if the prospective school or urban planning department offers internship opportunities.
8. Learn about the geographical location of the school. Living in a particular type of environment--urban or rural--may stimulate learning in your area of study.
9. Find out if the school's instructors are practicing planners. Some schools are more geared toward research than practical application.
10. Talk with one or more current students about their interactions with the faculty. Not all faculty members are readily accessible and available to students.
11. Assess your financial ability. Your choice of school may largely depend on tuition costs and other living expenses while you are enrolled.

Tips & Warnings

• There will be more positions for urban planners available in the coming years due to population growth in major urban areas.
• Some urban planners take on the role of urban renewal. This role involves the revitalization of inner cities and run-down neighborhoods.
• Important aspects of urban planning include safety, aesthetics, renewal, reconstruction, transportation, environmental concerns and suburb development.
• Urban planners spend time outside of the office, as well as inside in order to learn about a community's needs for change and growth.
• In addition to the 40-hour workweek, urban planners often attend meetings and seminars regarding their chosen field, even on weekends.
• Many urban or city planners have to work under tight schedules and deadlines. Other stresses include political pressure from interest groups regarding certain proposed projects.