An Urban Planner or Regional Planner helps a community decide how to best use its land and resources looking towards future growth and revitalization. Urban Planners usually work for a local government recommending locations for roads, schools and other infrastructures in order to help local officials solve social, economic and environmental problems.

To work as an urban planner or regional planner a bachelor's degree in economics, geography, political science or environmental design is the most desirable degree to obtain prior to entering into a master’s degree program which one generally needs.  The best degree to obtain is one in urban or regional planning from a program accredited by the Planning Accreditation Board. A master's degree in a related field, for example urban design or geography, may be accepted as well.  Certification, which the American Institute of Certified Planners grants based on education, work experience and an exam, can help with career advancement.

On a typical day an Urban Planner or Regional Planner’s tasks might include:

Designing, promoting and administering government plans and policies affecting land use, zoning, public utilities, community facilities, housing and transportation.

Holding public meetings and conferring with government, social scientists, lawyers, developers, the public and special interest groups to formulate and develop land use or community plans.

Recommending approval, denial or conditional approval of proposals.

Determining the effects of regulatory limitations on projects.

Assessing the feasibility of proposals and identifying necessary changes.

As an Urban Planner or Regional Planner, you can expect to earn anywhere from $55k - $100k+.

**Annual earnings are determined by a variety of factors including field, title, place of employment, level of education, experience and geography.**

Search for Urban Planner Jobs