There are many grassroots ways to do Planning, and people plan together every day. But if you want to work as a professional Planner, a degree at UBC SCARP is to many a gold standard in the Planning world!
Where are you in your journey? Choose your path:
Get an impressive Planning foundation in…
The Bachelor of Arts, Urban Studies
Investigate the forces that shape cities and how to redirect those forces. Become specialized in technical data analysis, development finance strategies, dialogue and engagement, and political/policy communication.
This exciting undergrad major is jointly run with UBC's Department of Geography.
If you take this route, normally you’ll choose a major near the end of your first year at UBC. This gives you some time to get grounded in your university experience and dip your toes into things – what courses get you really excited about the world and your life?
Or, if you're taking another field like Architecture, Engineering, Geography, Political Science, or countless others, taking courses in Urban Studies gives you a fulsome understanding of the issues that affect cities, politics, economics, and the environment.
You can either...
Excel in professional Planning in:
The Master of Community and Regional Planning
Get accredited Professional Planner status in both Canada and the USA. Form partnerships and institutional networks before you even graduate. Actualize comprehensive planning theory to support the well-being of communities and natural and built environments.
or MCRP's even more Indigenous-oriented Concentration...
Indigenous Community Planning
Join a new generation of Planners to break with the colonial legacy, working in respectful partnership with Indigenous communities in alignment with their values and priorities. ICP teaches you to walk in two worlds, honouring all ways of knowing and being, learning to be on this planet as a healing presence.
or...
Add your research insights to the planning conversation in our:
Research Masters (Master of Arts or Master of Science)
A research-based degree for either practicing professionals wishing to strengthen their research skills, students with undergraduate planning degrees from accredited programs, and students looking to one day pursue doctoral research.
or...
Join Planning and Civil Engineering perspectives with:
The Master of Engineering Leadership in Urban Systems
Jointly run by Civil Engineering and SCARP. An intensive one-year program that equips you with the technical skills to develop practical and sustainable solutions associated with large urban infrastructure systems.
Conduct and mobilise original research with cunning new insights in our:
PhD in Planning
Pursue the latest in interdisciplinary research at the intersections of Planning theory and practice. Join a research conversation asking the most fundamental questions about today and tomorrow’s world.