Urban and Regional Planning, Environmental Planning Concentration, B.S.

Urban and Regional Planning student giving presentation at undergraduate research event.

Building a Greener Future Through Environmental Planning

The Environmental Planning concentration prepares students to tackle today’s most pressing environmental challenges. As climate change, environmental justice, and natural resource management become central to the planning profession, this concentration equips students with the knowledge and tools—such as GIS mapping, environmental impact assessment, and policy analysis—to design more sustainable, resilient, and equitable communities. By integrating environmental science, land use planning, and sustainability principles, students learn to develop climate adaptation and mitigation strategies, green infrastructure, and policies that balance urban and regional development with ecological integrity. Real-world experiences like internships, field research, and community-based projects enhance learning and professional readiness. Many students choose to double major in Environmental Science to deepen their expertise. With a strong foundation in both theory and practice, graduates are well-positioned to lead in public, private, or nonprofit sectors shaping the future of cities and regions in ways that prioritize both people and the planet.

Program Highlights

  • Gain real-world experience through internships, field research, and community projects
  • Develop a foundation in environmental planning, sustainability, and land use policy
  • Help shape greener, resilient communities with climate adaptation, green infrastructure, and equitable planning
  • Customize your path with options like a double major in Environmental Science and planning-focused electives

Start Making a Difference in Sustainable Development

Begin your journey toward creating impactful, resilient communities.

Empowering Future Leaders in Sustainable Environmental Planning

  • Two Urban and Regional Planning students work on a project together.

    Building Expertise for Sustainable Solutions

    The Environmental Planning concentration empowers students to address today’s most pressing environmental challenges through a strong foundation in sustainable planning and design. With a focus on key topics like green infrastructure, land use change, resource management, and climate resilience, students learn how to create strategies that protect natural resources while enhancing community health and well-being. This program helps students build the skills and experience needed to develop innovative, practical solutions for the future of cities and regions. Whether you are passionate about protecting the environment or shaping more livable communities, this concentration prepares you to make a lasting impact.

  • Two students conducting fieldwork for a class, examining data on a laptop outdoors.

    Collaborative and Interdisciplinary Approach

    Students in the Environmental Planning concentration learn through collaboration with experts in environmental science, engineering, and public policy, gaining diverse perspectives on complex challenges like climate change, biodiversity loss, and water resource management. This interdisciplinary approach encourages creative problem-solving and prepares students to design innovative, real-world solutions that support both ecological sustainability and vibrant communities. Graduates leave with the skills to work across sectors and disciplines, making them valuable contributors in today’s rapidly evolving planning field.

  • Student and faculty member working on a project together on a computer.

    Real-World Impact Through Hands-On Learning

    The Environmental Planning concentration emphasizes learning by doing, offering students meaningful experiences through internships, fieldwork, and community-based projects. These hands-on opportunities allow students to apply classroom knowledge to real-world environmental and planning challenges, deepening their understanding of sustainable development. Along the way, they build practical skills in collaboration, GIS, problem-solving, and project implementation—skills that are highly valued in the job market. Through this work, students make a real impact in local communities while preparing for rewarding careers in environmental planning.

What Can You Do with a B.S. in Urban and Regional Planning - Environmental Planning Concentration?

A B.S. in Urban and Regional Planning with an Environmental Planning Concentration prepares you for meaningful careers that focus on creating healthier, more sustainable communities. Graduates work at the intersection of urban growth and environmental responsibility, helping to shape policies, projects, and places that protect natural resources while supporting vibrant human life. With this degree, you can find opportunities in both the public and private sectors, from local government agencies to environmental consulting firms and nonprofit organizations.  Here are some potential career paths:

  • Environmental Planner/Consultant
  • Conservation Planner
  • Transportation/Land Use Planner
  • Environmental Policy Analyst
  • Environmental Analyst
  • Natural Resource Manager
  • Restoration Planner
  • Climate Resilience and Permitting Specialist
Student smiling wearing blue sweater in front of a globe.

Ready to learn more?

Course Requirements

Program Description

Environmental Planners are concerned with the physical environment in its built and natural dimensions. They work closely with environmental scientists and engineers to ensure the ecological integrity of air, water, and biodiversity in cities, towns, and regions. Environmental planners are called upon to develop resiliency plans and plans for green infrastructure to help communities and regions address threats associated with climate change.  Through all these activities environmental planners must work closely with communities to ensure equity, public participation, and representation.

Through the Environmental Planning Concentration students develop expertise in a range of issues, theories, and techniques for supporting sustainable outcomes at a variety of scales. Abundant opportunities for internships, field research, and community-based projects enable students to put their classroom experiences into practice. Many Environmental Planning students double major in Environmental Science, adding an even more robust background in the natural sciences and increasing their job possibilities. 

Regional Planning Foundation Courses - 19 Credits
Regional Planning Methodology Courses - 9 Credits

Required - 6 Credits

Choose One - 3 Credits

Regional Planning Required General Education Courses

Choose one of the following courses:

Environmental Planning Concentration - 6 Credits

Choose any two courses from the following:

Environmental Planning Concentration Electives

Environmental Planning Concentration Electives:

Additional Graduation Requirements

All students must meet the University Graduation Requirements and complete a general education or common core of studies, distributed among the different academic areas as detailed in General Education: WISE or Common Core.

Get Big School Features with Small School Advantages

We offer high-quality academics, unique learning opportunities, and a gorgeous campus—and we have small classes, accessible faculty, and one-on-one support. 

You'll join fellow motivated students ready to make the most of the college experience through active participation. Become part of a caring and committed community that understands and embraces the bridge between academic study and civic responsibility.

  • 15:1

    student-faculty ratio

  • 87%

    of students receive financial aid

  • 700+

    Internship Opportunities

Learn from Experienced Faculty in Small Classes

Our faculty have a deep sense of pride in the work they do and are engaged in urban planning both inside and outside the classroom. Working with students, they provide research and advocacy on issues in the local community, such as developing a more bike-friendly Westfield and spearheading environmental stewardship initiatives in the Westfield River Watershed. For our faculty, urban planning is more than just an interest, it’s a life pursuit—and they instill that drive in their students.  

Faculty directory

GPS students and faculty members smiling at commencement ceremony.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to submit SAT/ACT scores or an essay when I apply?

Westfield State University does not require an application essay, SAT and/or ACT scores, or letters of recommendation (except for special program admissions).     

All first-year applicants are reviewed for admission based on their high school record. First-year applicants must meet the minimum eligibility requirements established by the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education (DHE) in order to qualify for admission to a state university.   

Learn more about the application process and admissions here.

How much does Westfield State University cost?

Westfield State University offers a comprehensive university experience at an affordable cost—with many options for financial aid. Visit our Cost and Aid page to learn more. 

Will I receive academic support?

We’re invested in your success. Whether you need a little help adjusting to college, study strategies, tutoring, or disability services, the team at the Academic Achievement Department is ready to help. Our mission is to provide you with the tools to explore academic opportunities as well as to plot strategies for continued growth. 

Learn more about our student support services here.

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Urban and Regional Planning, Environmental Planning Concentration, B.S.