Urban & Environmental Planning

Urban and environmental planners play a crucial role in shaping the development of suburbs, cities, and regions. Good planning is essential for creating sustainable, resilient, and livable communities that provide a high quality of life for residents and vibrant local economies, while safeguarding the natural environment.

The planning programs at WCU prepare students with the knowledge, skills, and values to be successful as a planning professional. The undergraduate and graduate planning programs offer comprehensive curricula that includes data analysis, modeling, and community engagement techniques related to managing the physical, social, and economic aspects of urban areas and their surrounding environments. Students are prepared to pursue careers in economic development, land use management, environmental protection, disaster resilience, sustainable development, and more.