The urban planner is a professional whose skills are in demand as governments seek to create environments suitable for growing populations.

The urban planner may specialise in community development, housing, transportation, resource technology or management. He or she may also choose to work exclusively in planning and design or GIS (Geographic Information System) and remote sensing.

Accordingly, the employment possibilities of those who
graduate from related training programmes  include:

.  Development Control Offices
.  Environmental, Research and/or Housing Officers
.  Community Development Officers/Managers
.  Regional Development Planners
.  Land Use and/or Urban Planners
.  GIS Analyst

Urban planners provide services in the field of human settlement and development planning; land use policy and analysis; environmental development and management; community development and planning, remote sensing and geographic information system application to urban and regional planning.

Locally, the degree in urban planning is offered at the University of Technology, where the  programme objectives are to:

.  Develop an appreciation in students for the current and historical issues surrounding the practice of planning
.  Allow students to develop an understanding of the theory and practice of planning
.  Develop in students the capacity for original and analytical thought
.  Produce a planner with the requisite knowledge, skills and attitude appropriate for professional practice in both the public and private sectors
.  Train professionals competent in physical and socio-economic development planning as well as in sustainable development and management of natural resources in developing countries.

  The entry Requirements for the UTECH degree are:

.  Passes in five subjects in the Caribbean
Examination Council (CXC) general proficiency level grades 1,2,3 (grade 3 acceptable since June 1998); or General Certificate of Education (GCE) grades A,B or C including passes in English language, mathematics, geography and two other approved subjects.

.  Appropriate level of study in a recognised educational institution and relevant work experience.  Applicants accepted by this route are required to submit academic transcripts and documented evidence of relevant work experience.

.  Selected applicants for the programme may be required to satisfy a final interview.

Source:  University of Technology Faculty of the Built Environment