We are pleased to share that creation of our new Certificate in Urban Studies has been included in a recent edition of Iowa Now. The certificate is open to all undergraduate majors at the University of Iowa who seek to understand and impact urban issues through urban and regional planning.

Students interested in addressing emerging and persistent issues of the 21st century, such as  social justice, climate change, environmental conservation, sustainable development, mobility and access, public health, and economic prosperity—each of which has local, urban and regional dimensions, will find the certificate especially relevant.

Information about the requirements and how to apply for the certificate can be found on the School of Planning and Public Affairs’ website. Further information about pursuing an undergraduate-to-graduate degree in urban planning, as well as a master’s degree in urban planning, can also be found on the website or from Admissions Coordinator, Anne Nessa. Appointments with Anne may be made through Calendly.

For those unfamiliar with the field of planning, it is a world-wide effort to systematically plan for the future in a way that will mean better lives and a better planet for our children and grandchildren. As we become increasingly aware that we must aggressively undo social injustice and environmental degradation and create a world that is fair, green, and prosperous, planners have taken on the very difficult task of balancing economic growth with social justice and environmental sustainability.

Careers in urban planning enable graduates to work in a variety of areas. Planners share interests in social justice, affordable housing, sustainable cities, mobility and traffic congestion, climate and the environment, community development, and economic development, to name a few.