How to become an urban planning engineer

Is becoming an urban planning engineer right for me?

The first step to choosing a career is to make sure you are actually willing to commit to pursuing the career. You don’t want to waste your time doing something you don’t want to do. If you’re new here, you should read about:

Overview
What do urban planning engineers do?

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How to become an Urban Planning Engineer

To become an urban planning engineer, you typically need to follow these steps:

  • Obtain a Bachelor's Degree: Start by earning a Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering, Urban Planning, or a related field. These programs provide a foundation in engineering principles, urban planning concepts, and relevant technical skills. Look for programs accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) to ensure quality education.
  • Gain Work Experience: After completing your undergraduate degree, gain relevant work experience to enhance your skills and understanding of urban planning engineering. Seek internships or entry-level positions with government agencies, consulting firms, or organizations involved in urban development projects. This practical experience will complement your academic knowledge and provide valuable insights into the field.
  • Pursue a Master's Degree (Optional): While not always mandatory, a Master's Degree in Civil Engineering, Urban Planning, or a related field can provide you with a competitive edge and deeper expertise in urban planning engineering.
  • Obtain Professional Licensure: To practice as an engineer in the United States, you will typically need to obtain a Professional Engineering (PE) license. The requirements for licensure vary by state but generally involve completing a four-year engineering degree, gaining relevant work experience, and passing the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam and the Professional Engineering (PE) exam. Licensure demonstrates your competency and credibility as an engineer.
  • Continuous Professional Development: Stay updated with the latest advancements and trends in urban planning engineering by engaging in continuous professional development. Attend workshops, conferences, and seminars, and consider joining professional organizations such as the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) or the American Planning Association (APA) to network with industry professionals and access valuable resources.
  • Specialize and Gain Expertise: As you progress in your career, consider specializing in specific areas of urban planning engineering that align with your interests and goals. This could include transportation planning, environmental planning, infrastructure design, or sustainable development. Continuously expand your knowledge and skills in your chosen specialization through professional development opportunities and practical experience.

Certifications
There are several certifications available that can enhance your professional credentials and demonstrate your expertise in urban planning. Here are a few notable certifications:

  • American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP): The AICP certification is offered by the American Planning Association (APA) and is widely recognized in the field of urban planning. It signifies that an individual has met rigorous standards of education, experience, and ethical conduct in urban planning. To obtain the AICP certification, you typically need a combination of education and professional experience, along with passing the AICP Certification Exam.
  • Professional Transportation Planner (PTP): Offered by the Transportation Professional Certification Boards (TPCB), the PTP certification focuses specifically on transportation planning. It demonstrates proficiency in transportation planning principles, techniques, and practices. The certification typically requires a combination of education, professional experience, and passing a certification exam.
  • Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Certification: While not specific to urban planning engineering, LEED certification offered by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) is relevant for professionals involved in sustainable design and development. It recognizes expertise in environmentally-friendly and energy-efficient design practices. LEED certification can be advantageous for urban planning engineers working on sustainable and green infrastructure projects.
  • Certified Floodplain Manager (CFM): The CFM certification is offered by the Association of State Floodplain Managers (ASFPM). It signifies expertise in floodplain management and demonstrates competency in the technical and regulatory aspects of floodplain management, including flood hazard analysis, floodplain mapping, and flood risk mitigation.
  • Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Certifications: GIS certifications, such as those offered by the Esri, the leading provider of GIS software, can be beneficial for urban planning engineers. These certifications validate proficiency in GIS technology and its application in urban planning, spatial analysis, and data management.