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  1. Categories
  2. Urban Planning

Urban Planning Courses

Urban planning courses can help you learn zoning regulations, land use strategies, transportation systems, and community engagement techniques. You can build skills in spatial analysis, environmental impact assessments, and urban design principles. Many courses introduce tools like Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and modeling software to visualize urban layouts and analyze demographic data, enabling you to apply your skills in real-world planning scenarios.

Popular Urban Planning Courses and Certifications


  • J

    Johns Hopkins University

    Sustainable Cities

    Intermediate · Specialization

    Status: Free trial
    Free trial
  • J

    Johns Hopkins University

    Sustainable Regional Principles, Planning and Transportation

    Skills you'll gain: Sustainable Development, Case Studies, Community Outreach

    4.5 stars, 207 reviews, Intermediate, Course, 1 - 4 Weeks

    ★ 4.5 (207) · Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

    Status: Free trial
    Free trial
  • L

    Lund University

    Sustainable Cities and Communities

    Skills you'll gain: Sustainable Development, Governance, Systems Thinking, Drive Engagement, Business Modeling, Climate Change Mitigation, Innovation

    4.7 stars, 3K reviews, Beginner, Specialization, 3 - 6 Months

    ★ 4.7 (3K) · Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    Status: Free trial
    Free trial
  • J

    Johns Hopkins University

    Transportation, Sustainable Buildings, Green Construction

    Skills you'll gain: Architectural Design, Sustainable Development, Community Development, Sustainable Architecture, Building Design, Sustainable Design, Construction, Climate Change Mitigation, Environmental Policy, Policy Analysis

    4.7 stars, 241 reviews, Intermediate, Course, 1 - 4 Weeks

    ★ 4.7 (241) · Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

    Status: Free trial
    Free trial
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  • É

    École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne

    Smart Cities – Management of Smart Urban Infrastructures

    Skills you'll gain: Transportation Operations, Governance, Systems Thinking, Technology Strategies, Innovation, Digital Transformation

    4.7 stars, 1.9K reviews, Beginner, Course, 1 - 3 Months

    ★ 4.7 (1.9K) · Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    Category: Preview
    Preview
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  • U

    University of Amsterdam

    Reclaiming the Street for Livable Urban Spaces

    Skills you'll gain: Systems Thinking, Advocacy, Change Management, Sustainable Development, Experimentation

    4.7 stars, 88 reviews, Beginner, Course, 1 - 3 Months

    ★ 4.7 (88) · Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    Category: Preview
    Preview
  • U
    E
    E

    Multiple educators

    Human Mobility in Future Cities

    Skills you'll gain: Policy Analysis, Public Policies, Systems Thinking, Culture, Storytelling, Sociology, Innovation, Sustainable Development, Critical Thinking, Diversity Awareness, Biology, Environment, Qualitative Research, Economics

    4.9 stars, 297 reviews, Intermediate, Specialization, 3 - 6 Months

    ★ 4.9 (297) · Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    Status: Free trial
    Free trial
  • É

    École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne

    Planning & Design of Sanitation Systems and Technologies

    Skills you'll gain: Sanitation

    4.8 stars, 1.2K reviews, Intermediate, Course, 1 - 3 Months

    ★ 4.8 (1.2K) · Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    Category: Free
    Free
  • U

    University of Toronto

    The City and You: Find Your Best Place

    Skills you'll gain: Socioeconomics, Crisis Management, Creativity, Social Impact, Innovation, Decision Making, Economic Development

    4.6 stars, 157 reviews, Beginner, Course, 1 - 3 Months

    ★ 4.6 (157) · Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    Category: Preview
    Preview
  • S

    Sciences Po

    Cities are back in town : urban sociology for a globalizing urban world

    Skills you'll gain: Sociology, Culture, Sustainable Development, Social Sciences, Economic Development, Governance, Economics

    4.5 stars, 195 reviews, Beginner, Course, 1 - 3 Months

    ★ 4.5 (195) · Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    Category: Free
    Free
  • G

    Google

    Google Project Management

    Skills you'll gain: Quality Management, Project Closure, Scope Management, Team Management, Project Management Life Cycle, Project Management, Project Planning, Agile Project Management, Quality Assurance, Backlogs, Team Leadership, Project Scoping, Stakeholder Analysis, Project Risk Management, Stakeholder Communications, Project Implementation, Quality Assessment, Change Management, Web Presence, Interviewing Skills

    4.8 stars, 146K reviews, Beginner, Professional Certificate, 3 - 6 Months

    ★ 4.8 (146K) · Beginner · Professional Certificate · 3 - 6 Months

    Status: Free trial
    Free trial
    Category: Build toward a degree
    Build toward a degree
  • É

    École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne

    African cities : An Introduction to Urban Planning

    Skills you'll gain: Land Development, Governance, Climate Change Adaptation, Land Management, Environmental Issue, Sustainable Development, Finance

    4.8 stars, 20 reviews, Intermediate, Course, 1 - 3 Months

    ★ 4.8 (20) · Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    Category: Preview
    Preview
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Best free Urban Planning courses

High-quality free Urban Planning courses you can start today.

  1. 1
    Smart Cities – Management of Smart Urban Infrastructures
    École Polytechnique Fédérale de LausanneBeginner1 - 3 Months4.7(1,895)Free
  2. 2
    Planning & Design of Sanitation Systems and Technologies
    École Polytechnique Fédérale de LausanneIntermediate1 - 3 Months4.8(1,211)Free
  3. 3
    The City and You: Find Your Best Place
    University of TorontoBeginner1 - 3 Months4.6(157)Free

Best Urban Planning courses from Johns Hopkins University

Top-rated Urban Planning courses offered by Johns Hopkins University on Coursera.

  1. 1
    Sustainable Cities
    Johns Hopkins UniversityIntermediateJohns Hopkins University
  2. 2
    Sustainable Regional Principles, Planning and Transportation
    Johns Hopkins UniversityIntermediate1 - 4 Weeks4.5(207)Johns Hopkins University
  3. 3
    Transportation, Sustainable Buildings, Green Construction
    Johns Hopkins UniversityIntermediate1 - 4 Weeks4.7(241)Johns Hopkins University

Best Urban Planning certificate programs

Earn a certificate in Urban Planning from top universities and companies.

  1. 1
    Sustainable Cities and Communities
    Lund UniversityBeginner3 - 6 Months4.7(3,045)Specialization
  2. 2
    Human Mobility in Future Cities
    University of AmsterdamIntermediate3 - 6 Months4.9(297)Specialization
  3. 3
    Google Project Management
    GoogleBeginner3 - 6 Months4.8(145,680)Professional Certificate

Best Urban Planning courses for beginners

Top-rated beginner-friendly Urban Planning courses with no prerequisites.

  1. 1
    Reclaiming the Street for Livable Urban Spaces
    University of AmsterdamBeginner1 - 3 Months4.7(88)No prerequisites
  2. 2
    Cities are back in town : urban sociology for a globalizing urban world
    Sciences PoBeginner1 - 3 Months4.5(195)No prerequisites

Frequently Asked Questions about Urban Planning

Urban planning is the process of designing and organizing urban spaces to create functional, sustainable, and aesthetically pleasing environments. It involves the strategic allocation of resources and land use to accommodate growing populations, enhance quality of life, and promote economic development. Urban planning is crucial because it addresses challenges such as traffic congestion, environmental sustainability, and social equity, ensuring that cities can adapt to changing needs and improve the well-being of their residents.‎

A career in urban planning can lead to various roles, including urban planner, transportation planner, land use planner, and community development director. These positions often involve collaborating with government agencies, private developers, and community organizations to create plans that guide the growth and development of urban areas. Additionally, urban planners may work in sectors such as environmental consulting, real estate development, and public policy, providing diverse opportunities for professionals in this field.‎

To succeed in urban planning, you should develop a range of skills, including analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication. Familiarity with geographic information systems (GIS) is essential for mapping and analyzing spatial data. Additionally, understanding zoning laws, environmental regulations, and community engagement techniques will enhance your ability to create comprehensive plans. Skills in project management and collaboration are also valuable, as urban planners often work with diverse stakeholders to implement their strategies.‎

There are several excellent online courses available for those interested in urban planning. For instance, the African cities: An Introduction to Urban Planning course offers insights into the unique challenges faced by urban areas in Africa. Additionally, the HEALTHY URBAN SYSTEMS Specialization focuses on the intersection of urban planning and public health, providing a comprehensive understanding of how urban environments impact health outcomes.‎

Yes. You can start learning urban planning on Coursera for free in two ways:

  1. Preview the first module of many urban planning courses at no cost. This includes video lessons, readings, graded assignments, and Coursera Coach (where available).
  2. Start a 7-day free trial for Specializations or Coursera Plus. This gives you full access to all course content across eligible programs within the timeframe of your trial.

If you want to keep learning, earn a certificate in urban planning, or unlock full course access after the preview or trial, you can upgrade or apply for financial aid.‎

To learn urban planning, start by exploring online courses that cover foundational concepts and practical applications. Engage with course materials, participate in discussions, and complete assignments to reinforce your understanding. Additionally, consider joining local planning organizations or attending workshops to network with professionals in the field. Gaining real-world experience through internships or volunteer opportunities can also enhance your learning and provide valuable insights into the planning process.‎

Urban planning courses typically cover a variety of topics, including land use planning, transportation systems, environmental sustainability, and community engagement. Students may also learn about zoning regulations, urban design principles, and the impact of policy decisions on urban development. Furthermore, courses often emphasize the importance of data analysis and GIS technology in making informed planning decisions.‎

For training and upskilling employees in urban planning, the HEALTHY URBAN SYSTEMS Specialization is particularly beneficial, as it addresses the integration of health considerations into urban planning. Additionally, the Project Management and Planning Specialization can provide essential skills for managing urban development projects effectively, making it a valuable resource for workforce development in this field.‎

This FAQ content has been made available for informational purposes only. Learners are advised to conduct additional research to ensure that courses and other credentials pursued meet their personal, professional, and financial goals.

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