Urban and Regional Planning, Urban Design and Architecture Concentration, B.S.

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Urban Design & Architecture: Designing Sustainable Cities and Communities

The Urban Design and Architecture Concentration provides students with the skills, tools, and knowledge to design, develop, and transform urban spaces.  The pre-professional concentration integrates principles of architecture, planning, design, and sustainability, to prepare students to tackle real-world challenges in urban environments.  Students explore the physical, social, and cultural dimensions of city-making through coursework in regional planning, urban design theory, architectural history, and sustainable development. Studio-based learning, internships, and applied research projects provide hands-on experience in site planning, zoning, land use, and community design. Courses in drawing, design fundamentals, and visual communication build essential skills for articulating design ideas and engaging diverse stakeholders. Whether contributing to neighborhood revitalization, public space design, or long-range planning efforts, graduates of this program are prepared to work at the intersection of design and policy—supporting the creation of livable, resilient, and aesthetically rich communities. 

Program Highlights

  • Curriculum merges architecture, urban design, and planning
  • Gain real-world experience through projects and internships
  • Focus on sustainability, green technologies, and green design
  • Develop technical drawing, design, and GIS skills

Ready to Shape the Future of Urban Spaces?

Apply today and start building sustainable, innovative communities.

Transforming Urban Spaces with Sustainability and Smart Design

  • Three students smiling while holding academic award certificates at an academic awards ceremony.

    Interdisciplinary Curriculum

    This concentration combines architecture, urban design, and planning to offer a holistic approach to shaping cities and communities. Students learn to create sustainable, functional, and inclusive urban spaces by integrating design thinking with policy, planning, and community engagement. With a focus on design innovation and strategic problem-solving, the curriculum prepares students to tackle real-world challenges in urban development and the built environment.

  • Art student working on a painting.

    Developing Visual Communication and Design

    Visual communication is central to transforming ideas into impactful designs. Students build this skill through coursework in drawing, design fundamentals, sculpture, and geographic information systems (GIS). From conceptual sketches to technical site plans, students learn how to clearly and creatively present their ideas to diverse audiences—an essential ability for success in architecture, urban design, and planning.

  • Urban and Regional Planning student smiling while standing on the campus green.

    Innovative Focus on Sustainability and Green Design

    The program places a strong emphasis on sustainability by incorporating green building technologies, environmentally responsible planning strategies, and innovative design solutions that prioritize environmental responsibility and social equity. Students will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to create urban environments that are both environmentally friendly and socially impactful.

What Can You Do with a B.S. in Urban and Regional Planning – Urban Design and Architecture Concentration?

A B.S. in Urban and Regional Planning with a concentration in Urban Design and Architecture prepares graduates to shape the future of cities through thoughtful design, sustainable development, and strategic planning. With a unique blend of visual, technical, and policy skills, students are well-positioned to work across sectors—including public agencies, design firms, nonprofit organizations, and private development—where they contribute to projects that enhance the built environment and improve the quality of life. Here are some career paths and opportunities you can pursue:

  • Urban Designer
  • Architectural Designer (Pre-Professional)
  • GIS/CAD Specialist
  • Site Planner/Designer
  • Regional or Urban Planner
  • Sustainability Consultant
  • Zoning and Land Use Planner
  • Form-Based Code Specialist
  • Historic Preservation Planner
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Ready to learn more?

Course Requirements

Program Description

Urban designers and architects offer design ideas, strategies, and solutions pertaining to the physical realm. Architects focus on planning, designing, and constructing buildings and structures, while urban designers work on creating, adapting, or reviewing plans for urban spaces between and around the buildings. In this way, urban design is the bridge between architecture and planning. Both fields are intimately linked to the creative and iterative design process, linking them to art history and aesthetics. Building on a foundation in Urban and Regional Planning and Art, students taking this pre-professional concentration will be exposed to a variety of design topics and knowledge on the history of architecture and cities, contemporary green building construction technology and materials, commonly used tools for creating sustainable urban spaces, and visual communication tools to present ideas. Working closely with faculty on applied research or hands-on projects in studio settings will allow them to develop skills to analyze various urban conditions, explore innovative design solutions, and come up with design strategies for developing, revitalizing, or rebuilding varying urban scenarios and conditions.

 

Regional Planning Foundation Courses - 19 Credits
Regional Planning Methodology Courses - 9 Credits

Required - 6 Credits

Choose One - 3 Credits

Regional Planning Required General Education Courses

Choose one of the following courses:

Urban Design & Architecture Concentration - 27 Credits

Choose any two courses from the following:

Complete the following courses:

Additional Graduation Requirements

All students must meet the University Graduation Requirements and complete a general education or common core of studies, distributed among the different academic areas as detailed in General Education: WISE or Common Core.

Get Big School Features with Small School Advantages

We offer high-quality academics, unique learning opportunities, and a gorgeous campus—and we have small classes, accessible faculty, and one-on-one support. 

You'll join fellow motivated students ready to make the most of the college experience through active participation. Become part of a caring and committed community that understands and embraces the bridge between academic study and civic responsibility.

  • 15:1

    student-faculty ratio

  • 87%

    of students receive financial aid

  • 700+

    Internship Opportunities

Learn from Experienced Faculty in Small Classes

Our faculty have a deep sense of pride in the work they do and are engaged in urban planning both inside and outside the classroom. Working with students, they provide research and advocacy on issues in the local community, such as developing a more bike-friendly Westfield and spearheading environmental stewardship initiatives in the Westfield River Watershed. For our faculty, urban planning is more than just an interest, it’s a life pursuit—and they instill that drive in their students.  

Faculty directory

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to submit SAT/ACT scores or an essay when I apply?

Westfield State University does not require an application essay, SAT and/or ACT scores, or letters of recommendation (except for special program admissions).     

All first-year applicants are reviewed for admission based on their high school record. First-year applicants must meet the minimum eligibility requirements established by the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education (DHE) in order to qualify for admission to a state university.   

Learn more about the application process and admissions here.

How much does Westfield State University cost?

Westfield State University offers a comprehensive university experience at an affordable cost—with many options for financial aid. Visit our Cost and Aid page to learn more. 

Will I receive academic support?

We’re invested in your success. Whether you need a little help adjusting to college, study strategies, tutoring, or disability services, the team at the Academic Achievement Department is ready to help. Our mission is to provide you with the tools to explore academic opportunities as well as to plot strategies for continued growth. 

Learn more about our student support services here.

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Urban and Regional Planning, Urban Design and Architecture Concentration, B.S.