BES offered by the Faculty of Environmental & Urban Change
Cities are where global challenges converge—and where transformative solutions emerge. Our Cities, Regions, Planning degree immerses you in the complexities of urban life, from climate change and social inequality to infrastructural bottlenecks and migration patterns. With a focus on sustainable and inclusive urban planning, you’ll gain tools to design vibrant spaces, navigate governance systems, organize political action, and foster social resilience. Engage with critical issues shaping urban and regional futures while developing practical strategies to integrate newcomers, address environmental impacts, and nurture equitable communities. This program empowers you to reimagine cities as laboratories of sustainability, justice, and innovation.
Career Options in Cities, Regions, Planning
Here are just some of the career options related to this major. As all degrees offer transferable skills, some jobs are more closely linked to this field, than others. Check Canada’s Job Bank for regional requirements.
- Accessibility Coordinator
- Activist/Community Organizer
- Affordable Housing Advocate
- Climate Adaptation Specialist
- Community Development Officer
- Community Organizer
- Corporate Social Responsibility Analyst
- Cultural Heritage Advisor
- Data Analyst (Urban/Spatial Data)
- Economic Development Coordinator
- Emergency Management Specialist
- Environmental Impact Assessor
- Event Planner (Community/Urban Focus)
- GIS Technician/Analyst
- Government Policy Advisor
- Green Infrastructure Planner
- Humanitarian Aid Worker
- Land Use Planner
- Market Research Analyst
- Municipal Services Coordinator
- Non-Profit Program Manager
- Parks and Recreation Planner
- Policy Analyst (Urban/Regional Focus)
- Project Manager (Urban Development)
- Public Health Planner
- Real Estate Consultant
- Regional Transportation Coordinator
- Renewable Energy Consultant
- Research Assistant (Urban Studies)
- Risk Assessment Specialist
- Smart City Specialist
- Social Planner
- Social Policy Advocate
- Sustainability Consultant
- Tourism Development Officer
- Transportation Planner
- Urban Design Assistant
- Urban Planning Technician
- Volunteer Coordinator
- Waste Management Lead
Some career choices may require further education, such as graduate studies or professional courses and exams. For detailed career descriptions and specific requirements, please check Canada’s Job Bank.
Entry-Level Positions in Cities, Regions, Planning
An undergraduate degree is typically sufficient for these positions, though some locations may require additional qualifications. For region-specific information, please check Canada’s Job Bank.
- Assistant Urban Planner
- Community Development Assistant
- Community Outreach Coordinator
- Economic Development Assistant
- Environmental Impact Assessment Assistant
- Environmental Program Assistant
- Heritage Planning Assistant
- Housing Support Worker
- Local Government Administrative Assistant
- Non-Profit Program Assistant
- Parks and Recreation Assistant
- Policy Research Assistant
- Public Engagement Coordinator
- Transportation Planning Assistant
- Urban Data Analyst
- Waste Reduction Coordinator
- Zoning Technician
For career descriptions, visit Canada’s Job Bank. Some occupations may also be found on Career Cruising; for login information, navigate to the Career Centre’s homepage in Experience York.
Skills Developed through a Degree in Cities, Regions, Planning
Core Skills
- Geographic Information Systems (GIS) – Proficiency in spatial data analysis and mapping to support urban planning and regional development projects.
- Quantitative and Qualitative Research Methods: Training in data collection, statistical analysis, and ethnographic approaches to analyze urban trends and inform decision-making.
- Urban Policy Analysis: Skills in evaluating and developing policies related to housing, transportation, sustainability, and social equity in urban contexts.
- Land Use and Zoning Analysis: Understanding zoning laws and land use planning to assess and propose development projects.
- Project Planning and Management: Practical training in managing urban projects, including resource allocation, timeline management, and stakeholder engagement.
- Sustainability Assessment: Techniques for evaluating environmental, social, and economic impacts of urban development to promote sustainable practices.
Communication, Data Gathering and Organizational Skills
- Community Engagement and Stakeholder Communication: Learning to facilitate inclusive dialogues with diverse communities and stakeholders to inform urban planning processes.
- Survey Design and Data Collection: Acquiring skills to design and administer surveys, interviews, and participatory methods to gather qualitative and quantitative data on urban issues.
- Spatial Data Interpretation and Visualization: Utilizing GIS and other tools to effectively communicate complex spatial information through maps and visual presentations.
- Policy Writing and Report Preparation: Developing clear and concise reports, policy briefs, and planning documents tailored to various audiences, from governments to community groups.
- Meeting Facilitation and Conflict Resolution: Organizing and leading productive discussions, mediating differing interests, and fostering collaboration in planning processes.
- Project Coordination and Time Management: Planning, prioritizing, and managing urban initiatives, ensuring timely completion while integrating multiple data sources and stakeholder input.
Management and Teamwork Skills
- Collaborative Project Development: Learning to work in interdisciplinary teams to design and implement urban projects, integrating diverse perspectives and expertise.
- Leadership in Group Settings: Developing the ability to guide team efforts, delegate tasks, and maintain motivation toward shared goals in urban planning contexts.
- Strategic Decision-Making: Enhancing problem-solving skills to assess options, anticipate challenges, and make informed choices in project management.
- Conflict Resolution and Mediation: Addressing and resolving differences between team members or stakeholders to foster consensus and effective collaboration.
- Task Prioritization and Workflow Management: Organizing complex projects by setting priorities, managing resources, and meeting deadlines in dynamic environments.
- Participatory Leadership: Promoting inclusivity by encouraging team members and community stakeholders to contribute ideas and take ownership of planning outcomes.
Professional Associations
Professional associations offer valuable insights into qualifications, industry trends, and career opportunities. They provide networking events, workshops, mentorship programs, and internships, as well as job boards and career development resources. Additionally, some associations offer professional licensing and regulatory oversight.
- Ontario Professional Planners Institute (OPPI): The certifying body for Registered Professional Planners (RPP) in Ontario. CRP offers an excellent foundation for students to pursue membership and certification after graduation, either via graduate studies (also in EUC) or via work experience (possibly begun via a coop placement).
- Canadian Institute of Planners (CIP): A national organization that advocates for excellence in planning and provides certification pathways, networking opportunities, and professional development for planners across Canada.
- Urban Land Institute (ULI) Canada: A global organization with a Canadian chapter that connects professionals in urban development and planning through events, research, and professional education.
- Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) (International Affiliation): While based in the UK, RTPI membership is recognized globally, providing international networking opportunities for urban planning professionals, including those in Canada.
- Environmental Careers Organization of Canada (ECO Canada): A certifying body for environmental professionals, offering certifications and career resources for graduates specializing in sustainable urban development.
- Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM): A key organization that provides resources and advocacy for municipal governments, engaging planners in urban policy and sustainable community initiatives.