Rather, they should be viewed as umbrella categories which assist students to focus their interests. Within these categories, sub-specialties may be developed for individual students. The PCs overlap, combine, and reinforce each other. The PCs suggest the type of programs we emphasize at the University of Virginia, but the definition of each PC is flexible. Land use planning, for instance, is an important component of two other PCs, environmental planning and urban development.
Housing is a key element in each.
Different emphases are feasible depending upon whether the student s interest is primarily physical, economic, or social. Environmental planning embraces many settings, ranging from urban environments to wilderness areas to agricultural ecosystems. Land Use Planning Land use planners confront diverse issues related to growth management, urban form, and tools such as zoning. Transportation decisions have land use consequences which, in turn, create demand for new public facilities and services. Courses central to this PC include growth management, comprehensive planning, land development, plan implementation, and housing and community development.