Community and Regional Planning University of British Columbia

Overview

The Community and Regional Planning programme at the University of British Columbia provides a comprehensive professional education designed to address the complex challenges of modern urban environments. Students engage with a curriculum that blends theoretical foundations with practical applications to foster resilient and just communities. This master level course prepares graduates to lead in a rapidly evolving global landscape.

The curriculum is specifically designed to tackle pressing societal issues such as climate change, systemic injustice, and the decolonisation of planning practices. By integrating cutting-edge research with innovative pedagogy, the school ensures that students develop the critical thinking and analytical tools necessary for professional excellence.

Why Community and Regional Planning at the University of British Columbia?

This programme stands out as one of the few in North America to hold dual accreditation from both the Canadian Institute of Planners and the American Institute of Certified Planners. This status ensures that graduates are recognised as accredited experts across both nations, providing a significant advantage in the professional job market. The school is one of the largest graduate planning institutions on the continent, offering a vast network of expertise.

The learning experience is deeply enhanced by its location in Vancouver, a city globally renowned for its innovative urban planning and excellence in design. Students benefit from a "knowledge in action" philosophy, where they partner directly with municipal, community, and private-sector organisations. These collaborations allow students to act as consultants on real-world projects, proposing feasible solutions to contemporary urban problems.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: CAD 27448 per year
• National fee: CAD 11667 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum is structured around coursework and a significant major project or essay. Modules may include:

• Planning Theory
• Planning Methods
• Housing Equity
• Indigenous Community Planning
• Environment and Climate Change
• Transportation
• Urban Design
• Natural Resources
• Community Development

Careers with Community and Regional Planning

Graduates from this programme have an exceptional employment record, with 95% of those seeking work finding professional planning roles within one year of finishing their studies. The degree prepares individuals for leadership positions across various sectors, including public sector agencies, private consultancies, and non-profit organisations. Students emerge as creative agents of change ready to innovate within the profession.