Therefore, graduates can expect stiff competition for entry-level jobs, especially in metropolitan areas. Planners may have to accept nonprofessional positions such as Planning Technician to get started in the field. In private consulting firms, entry-level pay is usually lower than in government agencies, but top earnings are higher. Planners normally work 40 hours a week, but may work longer when there are evening or weekend meetings to attend or pressing deadlines to meet. Fringe benefits normally include paid vacation and sick leave, group health insurance, and retirement plans.
Some companies offer profit sharing or stock options.
A bachelor's degree in planning or a related field is the minimum requirement for professional-level jobs. Additional requirements for most jobs include a master's degree or several years of professional experience or both. Although it is possible to get started with only a bachelor's degree, intense competition for entry-level jobs and the increasing complexity of the work itself makes a master's degree advisable. Most authorities recommend an undergraduate degree in a field related to planning, such as geography, political science, or architecture followed by a graduate degree in planning. A degree in urban studies, environmental studies, or environmental planning programs requires the equivalent of two years of full time study to complete.