Bachelor of Science in Geography – Urban Planning

Plan stronger, more sustainable communities. The Urban Planning concentration in UNC Greensboro’s Bachelor of Science in Geography degree prepares you to address real-world challenges related to community growth, transportation, land use, economic development, and sustainability. You’ll learn how planners use geographic data, analysis, and strategic decision-making to guide the future of cities and regions.

This concentration is ideal for students who enjoy problem-solving and want to make a lasting impact on the places where people live and work. Graduates develop the analytical, technical, and geographic skills sought by planning agencies, government organizations, consulting firms, and community development professionals.

B.S. in Geography — Urban Planning Concentration Highlights

• Use geographic technologies to support planning decisions. Gain hands-on experience with professional tools including GPS technology, ArcGIS, ERDAS Imagine, MapInfo, remote sensing applications, and advanced mapping software used to analyze land use, transportation, and community development patterns.
• Develop skills for data-driven planning. Learn how to evaluate growth trends, transportation systems, environmental constraints, and development opportunities using geographic analysis, research, and problem-solving techniques.
• Access specialized research laboratories. Conduct analysis and research in facilities such as the Carolina Tree-Ring Science Laboratory, and Regolith Analysis Laboratory while exploring factors that influence sustainable community development.
• Study at a nationally recognized sustainability leader. UNC Greensboro is ranked among the nation’s most environmentally responsible colleges (Princeton Review’s Green College List, 2026), providing an ideal environment for students interested in sustainable planning and resilient communities.

THE Urban Planning, B.S. Concentration STUDENT EXPERIENCE

• Apply planning concepts to real-world challenges. Coursework helps you analyze issues related to community growth, transportation, sustainability, land use, and economic development while building practical planning and problem-solving skills.
• Explore communities near and far. Geography students have opportunities to participate in field courses and study abroad experiences that examine planning, development, and environmental challenges in diverse settings. Past destinations have included the Rocky Mountains, desert Southwest, Pacific Northwest, Iceland, Italy, and Southeast Asia.
• Connect with planning and development professionals. Through the student-led Geography Club, you’ll engage with planners, economic development specialists, GIS professionals, and public sector leaders while exploring career opportunities and industry trends.
• Challenge yourself academically and professionally. High-achieving students may pursue Disciplinary Honors in Geography, compete on UNCG’s award-winning Geography Bowl Team, and qualify for membership in Gamma Theta Upsilon, the international honor society for geography.

AFTER GRADUATIng With a Bachelor of Science Urban Planning Concentration

A Bachelor of Science in Geography with a concentration in Urban Planning from UNC Greensboro prepares you to address the challenges facing growing communities. You’ll study land use, transportation, economic development, sustainability, and regional growth. You’ll also develop the analytical skills needed to evaluate planning issues and inform community decision-making. As populations and jobs continue to shift across the Southeast and beyond, demand is growing for professionals with planning expertise. Graduates pursue careers in urban and regional planning, economic development, government agencies, consulting firms, nonprofit organizations, and related fields.

The concentration also provides excellent preparation for graduate study and professional training. Many students continue their education through UNC Greensboro’s online Master’s in Sustainability and Environment or the Post‑Baccalaureate Certificate in Sustainability. Others pursue advanced degrees in planning, public policy, sustainability, business, and related disciplines. You’ll graduate ready to help communities grow, adapt, and thrive.

Potential Career Paths