Bachelor of Regional & Community Planning

Program overview

The Bachelor of Regional and Community Planning (BRCP) at the University of the Fraser Valley is designed to equip students with essential skills and experiential learning opportunities necessary for a successful career as a planning professional. This interdisciplinary program combines regional and global perspectives, preparing graduates to work locally and internationally. Students will engage with current industry concepts such as human-centered design, sustainability, and smart cities, ensuring they are ready to make a positive impact in their communities. The program also emphasizes the integration of Indigenous ways of knowing, fostering a deeper understanding of diverse perspectives in planning.

Program structure

The Bachelor of Regional and Community Planning program is structured to be completed in 4 years of full-time study. Students are required to meet specific prerequisites before entering the program, which typically begins in the second year. The program is offered at the Abbotsford campus and has multiple start dates throughout the year, including January, May, and September.

Key features of the program include:

• Practicum opportunities that provide valuable work experience and industry contacts.
• Integration of Indigenous Ways of Knowing into the curriculum.
• Preparation for registered planning status upon graduation.

Featured Experiences

The Bachelor of Regional and Community Planning program offers several unique experiences that enhance learning and professional development:

• Practicum placements that allow students to gain hands-on experience in the field.
• Collaboration with the Stó:lō First Nation, incorporating Indigenous perspectives into the learning process.
• Interdisciplinary approach that connects various fields such as environmental studies, policy, urban design, and communications.
• Opportunities to engage with current industry concepts, preparing students for real-world challenges.

Career Options

Graduates of the Bachelor of Regional and Community Planning program can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:

• Community Planner: Focuses on developing plans and programs that improve community well-being and sustainability.
• Development Planner: Works on land use planning and development projects, ensuring compliance with regulations and community needs.
• Emergency Planner: Prepares for and mitigates the impact of disasters through strategic planning and resource management.
• Environmental Planner: Addresses environmental issues in planning processes, promoting sustainable practices and policies.
• Heritage Planner: Works to preserve and manage historical sites and cultural resources within communities.
• Parks Planner: Designs and manages public parks and recreational spaces to enhance community health and enjoyment.
• Planning Consultant: Provides expert advice to organizations and governments on planning-related issues.
• Social Planner: Focuses on social policies and programs that address community needs and improve quality of life.
• Transportation Planner: Develops transportation systems and policies to improve mobility and accessibility.
• Rural Planner: Works on planning initiatives specific to rural areas, addressing unique challenges and opportunities.
• Urban Designer: Focuses on the design and development of urban spaces, ensuring they are functional and aesthetically pleasing.

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