The BA Urban Planning and Sustainable Development at Western Washington University equips you to address the complex challenges of creating equitable, livable, and sustainable communities. This interdisciplinary program is designed for students passionate about shaping urban environments, promoting social and environmental justice, and developing innovative solutions for issues like climate change and housing affordability. You will explore the critical linkages between urban development and natural systems, gaining a foundational understanding of planning theory, land-use law, and environmental policy. This degree is ideal if you aspire to collaborate with diverse stakeholders to foster positive change at local, regional, and global scales.
This full-time, on-campus undergraduate program is structured over four years, guiding you through foundational courses, core planning methodologies, and specialized electives. You will engage in practical learning through planning studios focused on urban design, plan development, and implementation, alongside quantitative methods and community development. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on experience, allowing you to delve into specializations such as urban design, hazards planning, or tribal and indigenous planning. You will graduate with a strong portfolio, ready for careers in public service, non-profit organizations, or private planning consultancies, prepared to contribute to the future of urban environments.