Northern and Rural Community Planning

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon January 2027

Course Overview

The Northern and Rural Community Planning Bachelors Degree at the University of Northern British Columbia is designed for students passionate about addressing the unique social, economic, and ecological issues facing northern and rural communities. You will develop the skills to translate innovative ideas into tangible, positive change, enhancing environmental conditions and improving quality of life. This program focuses on sustainability within land use planning, social planning, and local economic development, preparing you to make a visible impact. If you are driven to understand and shape community change processes, this undergraduate degree offers a robust academic and practical foundation.

Studied full-time on campus over four years, you will explore principles and practices of community planning through a blend of physical and social science knowledge. The curriculum emphasizes the relationship between northern communities and surrounding rural resource regions. You will engage in experiential learning, applying your knowledge to design and create responsive policies, and gain practical skills through studio courses focusing on community engagement, land use, and environmental impact assessment. You will graduate equipped for careers in planning and development, with the potential to fast-track your professional journey as a Registered Professional Planner.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This course explores the principles and practices of planning, with a specific focus on northern and rural communities. It covers foundational concepts in environmental planning, microeconomics, and Indigenous studies, alongside essential communication and research skills. Advanced topics delve into sustainable community development, engagement strategies, environmental impact assessment, and professional planning practice, with particular attention to the unique challenges and opportunities within northern contexts.

1 Lower-Division General Environmental Planning Requirement

Microeconomics Compulsory
Introduction to Planning Compulsory
Principles and Practices of Planning Compulsory
The Aboriginal Peoples of Canada Compulsory
Writing and Communication Skills
Communications in Natural Resources and Environmental Studies

2 Upper-Division General Environmental Planning Requirement

Sustainable Communities: Structure and Sociology Compulsory
Community Engagement and Inclusion Studio Compulsory
Environmental Impact Assessment Compulsory
Professional Planning Practice Compulsory
Land Use and Development Studio
Research Methods in First Nations
Community-Based Research
Intermediate GIS
Law and Indigenous People
Environmental Law
Housing: From Concept to Construction
Land Use Planning
Planning Theory, Process and Implementation
Environmental and Professional Ethics
Northern Communities
Land Relations and Communities in Recreation and Tourism

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 19,542.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 19,542.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 19,542.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 19,542.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 78,169.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 530.00 - USD 1,716.00
Food & Groceries USD 5,634.00 - USD 6,068.00
Transport USD 521.00 - USD 694.00
Utilities & Bills USD 867.00 - USD 1,301.00
Estimated Total USD 7,022.00 - USD 8,063.00

Living cost estimates are based on Prince George Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

89%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Agricultural Research & DevelopmentConstruction Technology & Digital SolutionsCorporate Finance & TreasuryEconomic Research & PolicyEducation Policy & AdministrationElectrical & Mechanical InstallationEnvironmental & Sustainability ConsultingInvestment Management & Asset ManagementNursing & Allied HealthPublic Health & Epidemiology

Top Employers Hiring for this course

BC Public Service

City of Prince George

College of New Caledonia

Government of ALberta

Government of Canada

SLR Consulting

University of Northern British Columbia

Urban Systems Ltd

Why Study Northern and Rural Community Planning at University of Northern British Columbia

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Life at University of Northern British Columbia in Canada

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Northern and Rural Community Planning at University of Northern British Columbia

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 24 hours per week off-campus during term time and unlimited hours during breaks. On-campus work has no hour restrictions and requires no separate permit.

What English language score do I need for this course?

English proficiency is required for admission. Acceptable tests include Duolingo with a minimum score of 105, TOEFL with a minimum overall score of 90, and IELTS with a minimum overall score of 6.5.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as Urban Planners, Community Development Coordinators, Environmental Consultants, and Sustainability Managers.

What will I actually study in this course?

This program addresses the unique social, economic, and ecological challenges faced by northern and rural communities. Students will learn sustainability practices in land use and social planning to drive meaningful community improvements.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Northern and Rural Community Planning program has three intake months: January, May, and September. Choose the month that best suits your schedule to start your journey.
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