Part-time students can also be accommodated. The core curriculum is designed to provide all students with a general introduction to planning thought, analytical methods, and planning techniques. It provides the basic skills and integration necessary for understanding the field and preparing for more advanced work in an elected area of specialization. In addition, each student must participate in an ongoing speaker series. Forecasting Beginning in their second semester of study, students choose a planning specialty from the following list, in which they take a minimum of four additional courses.
Dual specializations are possible.
The intent of the internship is to give students a unique learning opportunity, allowing them to put many of the concepts and methods learned in the classroom into practice in a realistic professional setting. The internship also serves to help students focus their interest area and course work for the remainder of their studies, and provides a maturity gained from relevant work experience. Typically, the internship is completed during the summer between the first and second year of study. Many students, however, fulfill this requirement through part-time employment during the school year. While securing an internship is primarily the responsibility of the student, the Department provides substantial aid in locating a position and in insuring that the work experience is relevant and appropriate to the student's program of study.