City and Regional Planning-Land Use and Environmental Planning
The City and Regional Planning: Land Use and Environmental Planning Master of Science program at Pennsylvania University is a two-year, full-time graduate degree that prepares students to design, manage, and evaluate urban and regional systems with a focus on sustainability, land use policy, and environmental stewardship. Combining planning theory with practical tools, the program equips future planners to balance growth with conservation, protect natural resources, and shape livable, resilient communities. Students explore how zoning, infrastructure, housing, and environmental policy interact in shaping both urban centers and rural landscapes.
Through a combination of studio-based learning, research, and real-world projects, the program promotes interdisciplinary collaboration and evidence-based decision-making. Learners gain proficiency in tools such as GIS, environmental impact analysis, and regulatory planning frameworks while also engaging in critical debates on equity, climate adaptation, and regional governance. With strong faculty mentorship and access to diverse field sites, students are encouraged to apply classroom knowledge to contemporary urban and ecological challenges at multiple geographic scales.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: City and Regional Planning-Land Use and Environmental Planning
- Degree Type: S. Master
- Duration: 2 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 11 January 2026
- Location: University of Pennsylvania, United States
- Field of Study: Urban Planning
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations in Planning and Sustainability
- Principles of City and Regional Planning
- Environmental Planning and Policy
- GIS and Spatial Analysis for Urban Systems
- Land Use Planning Law and Regulation
Semester 2 – Analysis, Design, and Impact
- Urban Design and Ecological Infrastructure
- Quantitative Methods for Policy Evaluation
- Housing, Zoning, and Sustainable Development
- Studio I: Local Land Use and Site Planning
Semester 3 – Regional Systems and Environmental Integration
- Transportation and Land Use Interactions
- Climate Change Planning and Resilience Strategies
- Environmental Impact Assessment and Review
- Studio II: Regional Planning for Green Growth
Semester 4 – Capstone and Professional Practice
- Capstone Research or Applied Planning Project
- Public Participation and Collaborative Governance
- Ethics, Equity, and Leadership in Planning
- Portfolio Development and Career Readiness Workshop
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are well-prepared for professional roles in urban planning departments, regional planning agencies, environmental consulting firms, nonprofit advocacy groups, and infrastructure development organizations. Common job titles include land use planner, environmental policy analyst, sustainability coordinator, urban designer, and regional development strategist. These professionals are engaged in shaping comprehensive plans, crafting zoning ordinances, conducting environmental impact assessments, and advising local governments on growth management and climate adaptation. Employers span across public and private sectors, including municipal governments, state and federal agencies, urban think tanks, and international development institutions. Graduates are valued for their ability to align urban growth with ecological integrity, making them key contributors in building sustainable, equitable cities and regions. The program also provides a strong academic foundation for those interested in pursuing doctoral studies in urban or environmental planning.
Why Choose This Program
This program offers a rigorous and interdisciplinary approach to the complex intersection of land use, environment, and policy, making it ideal for those passionate about shaping sustainable futures. With a structure that integrates design studios, policy analysis, and hands-on technical training, students experience the full spectrum of planning practice from theory to application. The two-year format allows for deep specialization and professional development, including internships and portfolio refinement. Pennsylvania University’s strong ties to local governments, environmental agencies, and planning firms provide rich opportunities for networking and real-world engagement. Faculty expertise spans environmental law, urban design, climate adaptation, and land policy, ensuring that students are mentored by leaders in the field. For future planners who want to create cities and regions that are both functional and ecologically resilient, this program delivers the skills, vision, and strategic insight to lead meaningful change.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 215 898 5000
Email: admissions@upenn.edu
Address: University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
