Joseli Macedo
College of Design Construction and Planning
URP 4000 - Preview of Urban and Regional Planning
This course introduces students to the major concepts and issues in urban and regional planning. It is one of two required core courses for students pursuing a minor in Urban and Regional Planning and currently focuses on planning and development in the United States. The modified course will expose students to the social, economic, environmental, structural, demographic, legal, cultural and political problems that cities face today, not only in America, but also in other countries. The same general topics will be covered; however, instead of presenting only the American perspective on how urban issues are dealt with, the modified course will draw upon case studies and examples from other countries in the world. Special emphasis will be given to developing countries, where the largest cities in the world and the majority of the world’s population are located today.
Internationalizing the content of URP4000 will not only expand the views of students taking the course, but also add a new dimension to elective courses they have to take to complete their minor as well as courses they will take if they join our graduate program. Students will acquire an understanding of how planning and development happens in the United States, but they will also be able to compare American cities with foreign cities, every step of the way. Being exposed to urban areas outside of the US, to other peoples life styles and quality of life, to other cultures and how these inherent elements affect city development and the planning profession will enrich the students’ experience. Becoming aware of other places in the world might influence the choice of courses they take after URP4000; it might also open their eyes and their minds to cultures, political and economic systems, environments and living conditions that they would not get to know otherwise.