The design and use of computerized geographic information systems for land planning and design decisions. Examination of the role of G.I.S. in the planning function and process. Information and its role in defining planning problems and shaping public discussion. Critical analyses of the historical, political, sociocultural and economic aspects of housing policy, leading to an understanding of the development, implementation and impact of current policies at the local, state and federal levels, as well as issues of housing discrimination. The focus is upon means and methods to insure the optimal use of resources in our agricultural and non-urban areas.
Topics focus on the development of an understanding of rural trends and how the planner can react.
Landscape planning theories, geographic information systems, resource analysis, and basic aspects of site and regional physical planning. The goal of this course is to explore the appropriate methods required for determining the optimal location, enhancement and expansion of the industrial base of communities. Topics focus upon industrial policy, land use, infrastructure, labor needs, the role of the environment, financial requirement, industrial innovation and the influence of world trend on our industrial base. A joint planning-anthropology seminar focusing on the intersection of planning and anthropology theory and practice as they affect policy planning. Planning and anthropology students work together on a project with a local community.