Program Curriculum

Program Curriculum

This is an intensive program designed for students with an undergraduate degree or equivalent. Applied planning students share a passion and motivation to contribute to better and more liveable communities and a more sustainable future.

The applied planning program builds applied planning skills for people who wish to work in the field of planning. Courses emphasize team based learning and introduce students to case studies, practical projects, and a range of skills necessary for the practicing planner. Graduates of this program find work with planning organizations including local and regional government, consulting firms, and First Nations.

Students in the program require 16 courses to graduate from our 12 month program with a Post-Degree Diploma in Applied Planning. There is an optional work term which includes two additional courses.

Part-time students may be accepted into the program, space permitting. Most applied planning courses are scheduled in the evenings to enable students to work in addition to pursuing their studies.

Post-Degree Diploma in Applied Planning

CURRICULUM

Total Credits: 45

Term One

Courses Credits
All of
APPL 4110 Introduction to Planning
2

Lecture Hours: 35.0 | Seminar: 0.0 | Lab: 0.0

This course will provide an introduction to the origins, purpose and modern practice of planning in Canada, British Columbia and, more specifically, the Metro Vancouver Region. It will examine the impact of planning on the development of cities and towns.Registration in this course is restricted to students admitted to the Post-Degree Diploma in Applied Planning.

More Information »
APPL 5110 Planning Applications in GIS
3

Lecture Hours: 2.0 | Seminar: 0.0 | Lab: 2.0

This is an introductory course in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) intended to allow students to become familiar with the common and appropriate software, for example GIS and ArcView.Registration in this course is restricted to students admitted to the Post-Degree Diploma in Applied Planning.Corequisite(s): APPL 4110.

More Information »
APPL 5120 Planning Theory, Practice, and Ethics
3

Lecture Hours: 3.0 | Seminar: 0.0 | Lab: 0.0

This course will consider the underlying principles and planning theories which influence contemporary planning practice. This will include a review of current theories of community development, sustainability as well as urban and rural planning. The implementation of these theories will be explored through case studies. Students will be encouraged to identify how planning theory influences practice. This course also examines planning practice and ethics through studying the Planning Institute of BC and Canadian Institute of Planner Code of Ethics. Through role play and class discussion, situations will be considered which may create ethical dilemmas for planners. Methods for exploring ethics as well as appropriate action to take in a professional context will be discussed. Planning practice will be explored with a particular focus on research skills and the design and implementation of qualitative research projects as well as community engagement strategies. This will include discussion of inter cultural planning and use of social media and other internet based tools to engage communities. Registration in this course is restricted to students admitted to the Post-Degree Diploma in Applied Planning.Corequisite(s): APPL 4110.

More Information »
APPL 5130 Introduction to Planning Methods
3

Lecture Hours: 2.0 | Seminar: 0.0 | Lab: 2.0

This course introduces students to the basics of policy analysis and planning, including data collection, analysis of information for undertaking a range of planning tasks, and general aspects of problem solving. In these courses students develop and explore how these concepts and methods can contribute to more complex planning applications and technical studies.Registration in this course is restricted to students admitted to the Post-Degree Diploma in Applied Planning.Corequisite(s): APPL 4110.

More Information »
APPL 5140 Planning Process & Law
3

Lecture Hours: 3.0 | Seminar: 1.0 | Lab: 0.0

While persuasion can achieve significant results, community planning requires regulatory powers to be effective. Communities receive their authority to regulate planning through Provincial legislation, and in some cases planning decisions are also guided by applicable Federal laws. That authority is both limited and prescriptive. This course introduces students to the enabling legislation that both authorizes and limits planning practice in BC. This includes the legal requirements for plan adoption and the development approval process. The course will focus on those aspects of the planning process and law considered most relevant to planners and planning technicians practicing in BC. Registration in this course is restricted to students admitted into the Post-Degree Diploma in Applied Planning.Corequisite(s): APPL 4110.

More Information »
APPL 5195 Special Topics I
1

Lecture Hours: 8.0 | Seminar: 9.0 | Lab: 0.0

This course will be offered in the fall semester. The topic will be different each year and will be selected based on current "hot topics" in planning. The courses will be open to Langara students and to professional planners as part of their Continuing Professional Development.Priority registration in this course is offered to students admitted to the Post-Degree Diploma in Applied Planning.

More Information »
15 Credits

Term Two

Courses Credits
All of
APPL 5210 Land Development
3

Lecture Hours: 2.0 | Seminar: 0.0 | Lab: 2.0

This course introduces students to the land development, design, feasibility, and approval process through the preparation of a single detached residential subdivision project using Computer Aided Design software (AutoCAD).Registration in this course is restricted to students admitted into the Post-Degree Diploma in Applied Planning.Prerequisite(s): A minimum "C" grade in one of the following: APPL 5110, 5120, 5130, or 5140.

More Information »
APPL 5220 Urban & Rural Planning
3

Lecture Hours: 3.0 | Seminar: 1.0 | Lab: 0.0

This course focuses on building skills that planners need in urban and rural contexts. Using case studies, this course focuses on urban planning functions, including neighbourhood design, subdivision, zoning, and planning policy development. It will also focus on planning issues unique to rural areas. Finally, consideration will be given to how planning skills are applied to the differing contexts of urban and rural communities.Registration in this course is restricted to students admitted into the Post-Degree Diploma in Applied Planning.Prerequisite(s): A minimum "C" grade in one of the following: APPL 5110, 5120, 5130, or 5140.

More Information »
APPL 5230 Social Planning and Community Development
3

Lecture Hours: 3.0 | Seminar: 1.0 | Lab: 0.0

Social planning is about change in our communities and how we manage it effectively. Social planning takes into consideration the impact of planning and development on people. Community development is a process where community members come together to take collective action and generate solutions to common problems. This course will explore how planners can participate in and facilitate community development. It will also explore planning with First Nations.Registration in this course is restricted to students admitted to the Post-Degree Diploma in Applied Planning.Prerequisite(s): A minimum "C" grade in one of the following: APPL 5110, 5120, 5130, or 5140.

More Information »
APPL 5240 Environmental Planning
3

Lecture Hours: 3.0 | Seminar: 1.0 | Lab: 0.0

This course will introduce students to basic theory and concepts regarding planning with consideration for the natural environment. Students will explore a range of environmental planning issues, work on problems modeled on real-life situations, and learn techniques that planners use to identify and address potential environmental impacts of land use and development. The course will focus on human-environment interactions in urban and rural areas, but will also cover broader environmental planning applications.Registration in this course is restricted to students admitted into the Post-Degree Diploma in Applied Planning.Prerequisite(s): A minimum "C" grade in one of the following: APPL 5110, 5120, 5130, or 5140.

More Information »
APPL 5295 Special Topics II
1

Lecture Hours: 8.0 | Seminar: 9.0 | Lab: 0.0

This course will be offered in the fall semesters. The topic will be different each year and will be selected based on current "hot topics" in planning. The courses will be open to Langara students and to professional planners as part of their Continuing Professional Development.Priority registration in this course is offered to students admitted to the Post-Degree Diploma in Applied Planning.

More Information »
APPL 5395 Special Topics III
1

Lecture Hours: 8.0 | Seminar: 9.0 | Lab: 0.0

This course will be offered in the spring semester. The topic will be different each year and will be selected based on current "hot topics" in planning. The courses will be open to Langara students and to professional planners as part of their Continuing Professional Development.Priority registration in this course is offered to students admitted to the Post-Degree Diploma in Applied Planning.

More Information »
APPL 5495 Special Topics IV
1

Lecture Hours: 8.0 | Seminar: 9.0 | Lab: 0.0

This course will be offered in the spring semester. The topic will be different each year and will be selected based on current "hot topics" in planning. The courses will be open to Langara students and to professional planners as part of their Continuing Professional Development.Priority registration in this course is offered to students admitted to the Post-Degree Diploma in Applied Planning.

More Information »
15 Credits

Term Three

Courses Credits
All of
APPL 5310 Advanced Planning Methods
3

Lecture Hours: 2.0 | Seminar: 0.0 | Lab: 2.0

This intensive course follows on from Introduction to Planning Methods (APPL 5130). The course explores some of the specialised methods planners use for local, metropolitan and regional planning, to turn information into forecasts, goals, strategies and plans for long range planning. Registration in this course is restricted to students admitted into the Post-Degree Diploma in Applied Planning.Prerequisite(s): A minimum "C" grade in all of the following: APPL 5110 and 5130; and two of the following: APPL 5210, 5220, 5230, or 5240.

More Information »
APPL 5320 3D Computer Applications in Planning
3

Lecture Hours: 2.0 | Seminar: 0.0 | Lab: 2.0

This course introduces the underlying principles and methods of 3D modelling within ArcGIS 3D Analyst. It provides grounding in the 3D tools offered and considers real world applications through a series of examples and exercises.Registration in this course is restricted to students admitted into the Post-Degree Diploma in Applied Planning.Prerequisite(s): A minimum "C" grade in all of the following: APPL 5110 and 5130; and two of the following: APPL 5210, 5220, 5230, or 5240.

More Information »
APPL 5330 Planning Studio: Sustainability
3

Lecture Hours: 3.0 | Seminar: 1.0 | Lab: 0.0

In this course, students prepare a community land-use plan for a neighbourhood. In doing so, students will be drawing on the wide range of skills they have developed during the program to prepare a detailed area plan for a local municipal setting. Both the project and classes explore important policy and development issues for planning sustainable communities. You will draw on the wide range of the planning skills and knowledge you have acquired in earlier courses in the program.Registration in this course is restricted to students admitted into the Post-Degree Diploma in Applied Planning.Prerequisite(s): A minimum "C" grade in all of the following: APPL 5110, 5120, 5130, 5140, 5210, 5220, 5230, and 5240.

More Information »
APPL 5340 Major Project
5

Lecture Hours: 0.0 | Seminar: 4.0 | Lab: 0.0

This course involves undertaking a major independent research paper which showcases the skills acquired throughout the program. The work will include research, in-depth analysis and clear, well thought out conclusions. Students will have the opportunity to pursue a topic of interest in depth with the individual guidance of a faculty advisor.Registration in this course is restricted to students admitted into the Post-Degree Diploma in Applied Planning.Prerequisite(s): A minimum "C" grade in all of the following: APPL 5110, 5120, 5130, 5140, 5210, 5220, 5230, and 5240.

More Information »
APPL 5595 Special Topics V
1

Lecture Hours: 8.0 | Seminar: 0.0 | Lab: 0.0

The topic will be different each year and will be selected based on current "hot topics" in planning. The course will be open to Langara students and to professional planners as part of their Continuing Professional Development.Priority registration in this course is offered to students admitted to the Post-Degree Diploma in Applied Planning.

More Information »
15 Credits
Post-Degree Diploma in Applied Planning (Work Experience)

CURRICULUM

Total Credits: 51

Term One

Courses Credits
All of
APPL 4110 Introduction to Planning
2

Lecture Hours: 35.0 | Seminar: 0.0 | Lab: 0.0

This course will provide an introduction to the origins, purpose and modern practice of planning in Canada, British Columbia and, more specifically, the Metro Vancouver Region. It will examine the impact of planning on the development of cities and towns.Registration in this course is restricted to students admitted to the Post-Degree Diploma in Applied Planning.

More Information »
APPL 5110 Planning Applications in GIS
3

Lecture Hours: 2.0 | Seminar: 0.0 | Lab: 2.0

This is an introductory course in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) intended to allow students to become familiar with the common and appropriate software, for example GIS and ArcView.Registration in this course is restricted to students admitted to the Post-Degree Diploma in Applied Planning.Corequisite(s): APPL 4110.

More Information »
APPL 5120 Planning Theory, Practice, and Ethics
3

Lecture Hours: 3.0 | Seminar: 0.0 | Lab: 0.0

This course will consider the underlying principles and planning theories which influence contemporary planning practice. This will include a review of current theories of community development, sustainability as well as urban and rural planning. The implementation of these theories will be explored through case studies. Students will be encouraged to identify how planning theory influences practice. This course also examines planning practice and ethics through studying the Planning Institute of BC and Canadian Institute of Planner Code of Ethics. Through role play and class discussion, situations will be considered which may create ethical dilemmas for planners. Methods for exploring ethics as well as appropriate action to take in a professional context will be discussed. Planning practice will be explored with a particular focus on research skills and the design and implementation of qualitative research projects as well as community engagement strategies. This will include discussion of inter cultural planning and use of social media and other internet based tools to engage communities. Registration in this course is restricted to students admitted to the Post-Degree Diploma in Applied Planning.Corequisite(s): APPL 4110.

More Information »
APPL 5130 Introduction to Planning Methods
3

Lecture Hours: 2.0 | Seminar: 0.0 | Lab: 2.0

This course introduces students to the basics of policy analysis and planning, including data collection, analysis of information for undertaking a range of planning tasks, and general aspects of problem solving. In these courses students develop and explore how these concepts and methods can contribute to more complex planning applications and technical studies.Registration in this course is restricted to students admitted to the Post-Degree Diploma in Applied Planning.Corequisite(s): APPL 4110.

More Information »
APPL 5140 Planning Process & Law
3

Lecture Hours: 3.0 | Seminar: 1.0 | Lab: 0.0

While persuasion can achieve significant results, community planning requires regulatory powers to be effective. Communities receive their authority to regulate planning through Provincial legislation, and in some cases planning decisions are also guided by applicable Federal laws. That authority is both limited and prescriptive. This course introduces students to the enabling legislation that both authorizes and limits planning practice in BC. This includes the legal requirements for plan adoption and the development approval process. The course will focus on those aspects of the planning process and law considered most relevant to planners and planning technicians practicing in BC. Registration in this course is restricted to students admitted into the Post-Degree Diploma in Applied Planning.Corequisite(s): APPL 4110.

More Information »
APPL 5195 Special Topics I
1

Lecture Hours: 8.0 | Seminar: 9.0 | Lab: 0.0

This course will be offered in the fall semester. The topic will be different each year and will be selected based on current "hot topics" in planning. The courses will be open to Langara students and to professional planners as part of their Continuing Professional Development.Priority registration in this course is offered to students admitted to the Post-Degree Diploma in Applied Planning.

More Information »
EXPE 4800 Craft Your Career
3

Lecture Hours: 4.0 | Seminar: 0.0 | Lab: 0.0

Finding meaningful work takes time, research, and planning. Students explore diverse perspectives and strategies that will lead to personal success in career planning. Through direct contact with industry professionals and career educators, students investigate practical strategies and tools to successfully job search and participate in the Canadian workforce. They develop tools and techniques to help them pursue employment in their chosen career. Relevant subjects include job search mindset, personal branding, targeted job applications, social media, networking, interview skills, workplace expectations and typical employment standards, and policies of Canadian businesses.Registration in this course is restricted to students admitted to Post-Degree Diploma programs with a work term option.

More Information »
(See note 4)
  
15–18 Credits

Term Two

Courses Credits
All of
APPL 5210 Land Development
3

Lecture Hours: 2.0 | Seminar: 0.0 | Lab: 2.0

This course introduces students to the land development, design, feasibility, and approval process through the preparation of a single detached residential subdivision project using Computer Aided Design software (AutoCAD).Registration in this course is restricted to students admitted into the Post-Degree Diploma in Applied Planning.Prerequisite(s): A minimum "C" grade in one of the following: APPL 5110, 5120, 5130, or 5140.

More Information »
APPL 5220 Urban & Rural Planning
3

Lecture Hours: 3.0 | Seminar: 1.0 | Lab: 0.0

This course focuses on building skills that planners need in urban and rural contexts. Using case studies, this course focuses on urban planning functions, including neighbourhood design, subdivision, zoning, and planning policy development. It will also focus on planning issues unique to rural areas. Finally, consideration will be given to how planning skills are applied to the differing contexts of urban and rural communities.Registration in this course is restricted to students admitted into the Post-Degree Diploma in Applied Planning.Prerequisite(s): A minimum "C" grade in one of the following: APPL 5110, 5120, 5130, or 5140.

More Information »
APPL 5230 Social Planning and Community Development
3

Lecture Hours: 3.0 | Seminar: 1.0 | Lab: 0.0

Social planning is about change in our communities and how we manage it effectively. Social planning takes into consideration the impact of planning and development on people. Community development is a process where community members come together to take collective action and generate solutions to common problems. This course will explore how planners can participate in and facilitate community development. It will also explore planning with First Nations.Registration in this course is restricted to students admitted to the Post-Degree Diploma in Applied Planning.Prerequisite(s): A minimum "C" grade in one of the following: APPL 5110, 5120, 5130, or 5140.

More Information »
APPL 5240 Environmental Planning
3

Lecture Hours: 3.0 | Seminar: 1.0 | Lab: 0.0

This course will introduce students to basic theory and concepts regarding planning with consideration for the natural environment. Students will explore a range of environmental planning issues, work on problems modeled on real-life situations, and learn techniques that planners use to identify and address potential environmental impacts of land use and development. The course will focus on human-environment interactions in urban and rural areas, but will also cover broader environmental planning applications.Registration in this course is restricted to students admitted into the Post-Degree Diploma in Applied Planning.Prerequisite(s): A minimum "C" grade in one of the following: APPL 5110, 5120, 5130, or 5140.

More Information »
APPL 5295 Special Topics II
1

Lecture Hours: 8.0 | Seminar: 9.0 | Lab: 0.0

This course will be offered in the fall semesters. The topic will be different each year and will be selected based on current "hot topics" in planning. The courses will be open to Langara students and to professional planners as part of their Continuing Professional Development.Priority registration in this course is offered to students admitted to the Post-Degree Diploma in Applied Planning.

More Information »
APPL 5395 Special Topics III
1

Lecture Hours: 8.0 | Seminar: 9.0 | Lab: 0.0

This course will be offered in the spring semester. The topic will be different each year and will be selected based on current "hot topics" in planning. The courses will be open to Langara students and to professional planners as part of their Continuing Professional Development.Priority registration in this course is offered to students admitted to the Post-Degree Diploma in Applied Planning.

More Information »
APPL 5495 Special Topics IV
1

Lecture Hours: 8.0 | Seminar: 9.0 | Lab: 0.0

This course will be offered in the spring semester. The topic will be different each year and will be selected based on current "hot topics" in planning. The courses will be open to Langara students and to professional planners as part of their Continuing Professional Development.Priority registration in this course is offered to students admitted to the Post-Degree Diploma in Applied Planning.

More Information »
EXPE 4800 Craft Your Career
3

Lecture Hours: 4.0 | Seminar: 0.0 | Lab: 0.0

Finding meaningful work takes time, research, and planning. Students explore diverse perspectives and strategies that will lead to personal success in career planning. Through direct contact with industry professionals and career educators, students investigate practical strategies and tools to successfully job search and participate in the Canadian workforce. They develop tools and techniques to help them pursue employment in their chosen career. Relevant subjects include job search mindset, personal branding, targeted job applications, social media, networking, interview skills, workplace expectations and typical employment standards, and policies of Canadian businesses.Registration in this course is restricted to students admitted to Post-Degree Diploma programs with a work term option.

More Information »
(See note 4)
  
15–18 Credits

Term Three

Courses Credits
All of
APPL 5310 Advanced Planning Methods
3

Lecture Hours: 2.0 | Seminar: 0.0 | Lab: 2.0

This intensive course follows on from Introduction to Planning Methods (APPL 5130). The course explores some of the specialised methods planners use for local, metropolitan and regional planning, to turn information into forecasts, goals, strategies and plans for long range planning. Registration in this course is restricted to students admitted into the Post-Degree Diploma in Applied Planning.Prerequisite(s): A minimum "C" grade in all of the following: APPL 5110 and 5130; and two of the following: APPL 5210, 5220, 5230, or 5240.

More Information »
APPL 5320 3D Computer Applications in Planning
3

Lecture Hours: 2.0 | Seminar: 0.0 | Lab: 2.0

This course introduces the underlying principles and methods of 3D modelling within ArcGIS 3D Analyst. It provides grounding in the 3D tools offered and considers real world applications through a series of examples and exercises.Registration in this course is restricted to students admitted into the Post-Degree Diploma in Applied Planning.Prerequisite(s): A minimum "C" grade in all of the following: APPL 5110 and 5130; and two of the following: APPL 5210, 5220, 5230, or 5240.

More Information »
APPL 5330 Planning Studio: Sustainability
3

Lecture Hours: 3.0 | Seminar: 1.0 | Lab: 0.0

In this course, students prepare a community land-use plan for a neighbourhood. In doing so, students will be drawing on the wide range of skills they have developed during the program to prepare a detailed area plan for a local municipal setting. Both the project and classes explore important policy and development issues for planning sustainable communities. You will draw on the wide range of the planning skills and knowledge you have acquired in earlier courses in the program.Registration in this course is restricted to students admitted into the Post-Degree Diploma in Applied Planning.Prerequisite(s): A minimum "C" grade in all of the following: APPL 5110, 5120, 5130, 5140, 5210, 5220, 5230, and 5240.

More Information »
APPL 5340 Major Project
5

Lecture Hours: 0.0 | Seminar: 4.0 | Lab: 0.0

This course involves undertaking a major independent research paper which showcases the skills acquired throughout the program. The work will include research, in-depth analysis and clear, well thought out conclusions. Students will have the opportunity to pursue a topic of interest in depth with the individual guidance of a faculty advisor.Registration in this course is restricted to students admitted into the Post-Degree Diploma in Applied Planning.Prerequisite(s): A minimum "C" grade in all of the following: APPL 5110, 5120, 5130, 5140, 5210, 5220, 5230, and 5240.

More Information »
APPL 5595 Special Topics V
1

Lecture Hours: 8.0 | Seminar: 0.0 | Lab: 0.0

The topic will be different each year and will be selected based on current "hot topics" in planning. The course will be open to Langara students and to professional planners as part of their Continuing Professional Development.Priority registration in this course is offered to students admitted to the Post-Degree Diploma in Applied Planning.

More Information »
15 Credits

Term Four

Courses Credits
All of
EXPE 4824 Work Experience Term - APPL
3

Lecture Hours: 0.0 | Seminar: 20.0 | Lab: 0.0

Work experience and report. Practical application of theoretical knowledge gained in academic studies to enhance skills and to provide professional and personal development. Work placements consist of full-time work in the planning field. Evaluation will consist of employer evaluation, work term report, and presentation.Students will receive credit for only one of APPL 5410 or EXPE 4824.Registration in this course is restricted to students admitted to the Post-Degree Diploma in Applied Planning.Prerequisite(s): A minimum "C" grade in EXPE 4800 or EXPE 4801, 4802, and 4803.

More Information »
3 Credits

Program Notes:

  1. Students must achieve a minimum "C" grade in all courses in the program in order to graduate. Students also must have a minimum CGPA of 2.33 to graduate.
  2. Field trips are organized for some courses in the program. These are normally arranged for Fridays. Although individual commitments may prevent students from attending all field trips, we recommend they attend these when possible. Students will find the experience and knowledge they gain from a field trip will be an advantage for completing specific projects and courses.
  3. Students wishing to pursue the work experience term (EXPE 4824) are required to first complete EXPE 4801, 4802, and 4803. EXPE 4800 will be charged at a different tuition rate than the APPL courses.
  4. EXPE 4800 may be take in term one or two.
  5. Regular Studies courses numbered 4799 or lower may not be substituted into this program for graduation purposes.