Community Planning Auburn University

Overview

The Community Planning programme at Auburn University provides a comprehensive professional education designed to prepare students for diverse roles in urban development. By combining theoretical knowledge with practical application, the curriculum ensures graduates are equipped to manage the complexities of modern public welfare and design.

This degree is officially recognised as a STEM-designated field of study, specifically within sustainability studies. This classification is particularly beneficial for international students, as it may grant eligibility for a twenty-four-month Optional Practical Training extension, providing a total of thirty-six months of work experience in the United States after graduation.

Why Community Planning at Auburn University?

The programme is a national leader in its field, having been ranked ninth among the top small city programmes by Planetizen. It holds prestigious accreditation from the Planning Accreditation Board, a status currently secured through to the end of 2027, which reflects the high standards of the teaching and curriculum provided by the institution.

A distinctive feature of the department is the Alabama City Year programme. This initiative offers students the chance to gain hands-on experience by working directly with communities across the Southeast on live planning projects. These partnerships allow students to apply their skills to real-world scenarios involving land use, economic development, and the design of public infrastructure.

Facilities and resources within the College of Liberal Arts support a practice-based approach to education. Students benefit from a broad-based curriculum that integrates core planning principles with specialised faculty expertise in areas such as geographic information systems, historic preservation, and affordable housing solutions.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 17993 per semester
• National fee: USD 17993 per semester
• Local fee: USD 6653 per semester

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum provides a foundation in core planning subjects alongside various elective specialisations. Modules may include:

• Sustainable development
• Land use and law
• GIS and mapping
• Place-making and urban design
• Transportation
• Real estate development
• Revitalization and economic development
• Affordable housing
• Historic preservation
• Community development and non-profits
• Public policy and administration

Careers with Community Planning

Graduates are prepared for a wide range of professional opportunities across multiple sectors. The skills acquired during the programme are highly applicable to roles in local and regional government, environmental consultancy, and private urban design firms. Many alumni pursue careers focused on the protection of the environment and the revitalisation of urban economies.

The programme's emphasis on practical experience ensures that students are ready for employment in diverse industries, including real estate development and non-profit community management. By working on real projects during their studies, graduates build a professional portfolio that demonstrates their ability to handle the design of public spaces and the implementation of complex land-use policies.