Cal Poly City and Regional Planning Major

Hi there! So, I've been looking into the city and regional planning major at Cal Poly, and I'm really intrigued. Does anyone have any insights on the program? Is it respected in the field and what kind of job opportunities are there for graduates?

Hello! The City and Regional Planning (CRP) major at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo has a strong reputation in the field and is well-known for its Learn by Doing approach. The program focuses on providing students with a comprehensive education in urban and regional planning, combining theory, practice, and hands-on experiences. As a result, graduates are well-prepared for careers in both the public and private sectors.

CRP at Cal Poly SLO boasts a high job placement rate, with many alumni finding positions in various planning-related fields such as urban design, transportation planning, housing development, environmental planning, and more. Some graduates have also pursued careers working for non-governmental organizations, consulting firms, and state/regional agencies.

One of the distinguishing features of this program is its emphasis on real-world projects and practical experiences, which can provide valuable skills and networking opportunities. Students often collaborate with faculty and local communities to address real planning issues, attend field trips, and engage in community-based projects. This hands-on approach helps students gain a solid understanding of planning principles and gain experience that is highly valued by employers.

To further enhance your job prospects after graduation, consider getting involved in extracurricular activities related to urban planning, such as joining the student chapter of the Associated Students in Planning, participating in design competitions, or gaining work experience through internships during the summer or academic year. These opportunities can help you build a strong résumé and network with professionals in the field.

In summary, Cal Poly's City and Regional Planning major is respected in the field and provides a comprehensive education with a focus on practical experiences. This, alongside involvement in extracurricular activities and internships, can lead to a wide range of job opportunities for graduates in various sectors of planning and related fields.