Undertaking a university planning degree program – with its critical education and professional academic experience  – is the most valuable first step towards building a career as a professional planner. 

Recognized University Planning Programs

The Canadian Institute of Planners (CIP), in partnership with the Planning Institute of British Columbia (PIBC), formally reviews and recognizes certain university planning programs in British Columbia and across Canada. This process certifies that such programs meet the minimum standards for a university-level professional planning education established by the planning profession in Canada.

Recognized university planning programs are the preferred route to professional membership, and ultimately a career in planning. Those considering a professional career in planning are strongly encouraged to seek a degree from a recognized university planning program. In addition, only students enrolled in recognized university programs are eligible for Student Membership.

Recognized University Planning Programs in British Columbia & the Yukon

The following university planning programs, offered at schools in British Columbia and the Yukon, are currently recognized by CIP and PIBC.

• University of British Columbia (School of Community & Regional Planning) Programs: Master of Arts (Planning), Master of Science (Planning) Website: www.scarp.ubc.ca
• University of Northern British Columbia (School of Environmental Planning)
  Programs: Bachelor of Environmental Planning
  Website: www.unbc.ca/planning/
• Simon Fraser University (School of Resource & Environmental Management)
  Programs: Master of Resource & Environmental Management (Planning)
  Website: www.rem.sfu.ca

Other Recognized University Planning Programs

Through CIP nationally, additional university planning programs are also currently recognized by PIBC and CIP which are offered at schools across Canada, as well as reciprocally in the United States and Australia.

• For information about recognized university planning programs across Canada please consult with the Canadian Institute of Planners (CIP) by clicking here.
• For information about reciprocally recognized university planning programs in the United States please consult with the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) by clicking here.
• For information about reciprocally recognized university planning programs in Australia please consult with the Planning Institute of Australia (PIA) by clicking here.

For questions about individual schools or programs, please contact the individual schools/programs directly. Please note: PIBC does not provide advice or recommendations to prospective students when considering which recognized program to apply to.