Course Library
Browse our library of planning courses
Tableau for Planners: Introduction
This course will introduce general principles of data visualization and orient the user with the Tableau platform. Learn how to connect to a data set in Microsoft Excel, understand general principles of a relational database, and start building basic worksheets and dashboards.
CityEngine for Planners 2: Coding in Computer Generated Architecture (CGA) and Exporting
The second course of the City Engine for Planners track dives into coding in Esri CityEngine’s proprietary Computer Generated Architecture (CGA) code.
CityEngine for Planners 1: Introduction
This course is designed for beginners seeking an introduction to 3D procedural modeling and CityEngine software.
Introduction to Planning: Zoning as an Implementation Tool
This course discusses the Zoning Ordinance - its structure, its relationship to the plan and the sometimes confusing procedures through which it is modified and varied.
Introduction to Planning: Implementation of the Plan
This course provides an overview of implementation strategies for a Comprehensive Plan and examines how those strategies fit together.
Introduction to Planning: The Comprehensive Plan
In this course we will discuss the comprehensive plan, sometimes called a “master plan” or a “general plan.”
Python Street Network Analysis
In this course we will learn how to use Python to conduct street network analysis with the OSMnx package.
Python Geospatial Analysis and Mapping
Learn how to use Python to work with urban spatial data.
Python Data Analysis and Visualization
In this course we will learn how to use Python to conduct basic data analyses and create attractive visualizations.
21st Century Storytelling: Video for Planners
This course will give you motivation to create video content, and give you practical, affordable tips to be heard among the online noise.
Urban Design for Planners 6: Streetscape Design
Learn how to identify thoroughfares where traffic calming is a high priority, identify desired thoroughfare dimensions based on urban context, and create a redesigned thoroughfare.
Urban Design for Planners 5: Density
The purpose of this course is to show how neighborhoods can increase in density in keeping with their character. Students will learn how to find areas that are close to civic uses, commercial areas, and public transit; propose a level of urban intensity (transect zone) for each area; determine what kinds of units would be appropriate in each location; and create a Sketchup model with varying density layers.
Urban Design for Planners 4: Mix and Proximity
The purpose of this course is to evaluate land-use diversity in a neighborhood, propose design interventions that would support and enhance a healthy mix, evaluate distances between where people live and what people need, and propose design interventions that would help increase desirable proximities. Students will find areas with different kinds and levels of mix, and then propose design strategies for areas of low housing mix. They will then compare areas for access to the most desirable facilities and places and propose corresponding infill strategies.
Urban Design for Planners 3: Neighborhoods and Centers
This course demonstrates how to delineate a set of neighborhoods and neighborhood centers for a given area and suggests design improvements that enhance neighborhood centers.
Urban Design for Planners 2: Getting Started with QGIS and SketchUp
The second course in the Urban Design for Planners series provides training on two important tools: SketchUp and QGIS.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This eight-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process. The first course introduces the software you’ll use to create analytical maps, 3D models, and 2D graphic designs.
Storytelling for Planners
This course will teach planners how to adapt proven storytelling methods employed by creative artists for centuries. We will cover the storytelling applications to analog and digital outreach methods.
Coding for Planners: Up and Running with Python
Python is one of the world’s most popular programming languages, particularly among beginners, thanks to its clear and straightforward syntax. It is also one of the most widely used languages for data science.
Conceptual Drawing for Planners
In this course, we will learn effective ways of drawing as a means to communicate design ideas and explore digital tools that support traditional drawing.
Regulatory Implications of Tiny Homes
In this course we will define a tiny home and explore the history and appeal of this seemingly recent movement. The course touches on challenges associated with the legal development and regulation of this alternative residential option.