Welcome to the Master of Planning Program

Dear Students,

You are about to embark on an exciting journey toward becoming a professional planner in the SAPL Master of Planning program at the University of Calgary. 

In this two-year, course-based program, you will engage in a unique form-based approach to planning, with design studio pedagogy as the foundation for your learning. This means you will not only learn about planning theory but also apply it in real-world contexts, engaging directly with local and regional communities to address contemporary urban and municipal issues.

As you move through the program, you will gain valuable skills in spatial analysis, design, and visual communication. These skills are essential for translating policy and regulatory requirements into effective planning practices. You will also learn how to understand the dynamic nature of constructed environments and how they reflect local and regional concerns such as social equity, sustainability, and climate change adaptation.

With a legacy of fifty-five years of successful graduates, our Master of Planning program is well-respected in the field. You will benefit from our dedicated faculty, who bring a wealth of research and professional practice experience to the classroom. They will help you understand the complexities of successful planning practice and make connections with the profession.

Our intimate educational atmosphere, with a 60-student MPlan community, and a core interdisciplinary faculty, will provide you with the opportunity to develop the knowledge and skills necessary for leadership positions in your future career. You will engage with key areas of concern, such as managing change in complex environments, engaging ethically with current and future problems, and recognizing the importance of implementation in planning practice.

Planning is not just about shaping spaces; it's about shaping futures. As you embark on this journey, remember: the world needs your vision, your skills, and your commitment to create communities that thrive.

We look forward to supporting you as you develop into a changemaker in the planning field.

Best, 
 

Enrica Dall’Ara
Associate Dean
Master of Planning Program