Course Library
Browse our library of planning courses
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.
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.
Blogging About Planning
In this course we will review how blogs are used as planning tools to educate and engage participants in community decisions.
Missing Middle Housing: Meeting the Growing Demand for Walkable Urbanism
Learn about Missing Middle Housing and how to integrate these types into existing neighborhoods.
Frontage Types and the Public Realm
This course reviews the 10 primary frontage types and how each shapes the public realm. This course focuses on understanding the features and distinctions of each type and in which locations or contexts each is appropriate.
Form-Based Codes 101: Citywide and Countywide Code Updates
The final course in the "Form-Based Codes 101" series explores citywide form-based coding—the assessment of an entire city to determine where form-based code application should occur.
Form-Based Codes 101: Legal Aspects
This course explores the legal issues of creating and using a form-based code.
Form-Based Codes 101: Preparing a Form-Based Code
This course explores basic questions and decisions to consider when preparing a form-based code. It also covers the different approaches to regulating urban form and provides guidance for selecting an organizing principle for your form-based code. Finally, the course explains the visioning and creating of a plan, followed by drafting, testing, and assembling your code.
Form-Based Codes 101: Downtowns
Downtowns are the historic center of most American cities. In this course, we will review their role in establishing the past and future character of the city, walking through a series of form-based code case studies across a range of scales and contexts.
Form-Based Codes 101: Corridors
Corridors have historically been a key element of the urban fabric of every American town and city, yet they are also commonly problematic. This course looks at the roots of the problem for examples of how corridors can be designed and coded.
Form-Based Codes 101: Learning How To Look
This course will teach you the skills to appreciate and analyze the measures and functions of good urbanism.
Form-Based Codes 101: Introduction
In this course we will define form-based codes, explain why they were invented, and distinguish them from conventional "use-based" zoning ordinances—all with an emphasis on placemaking and walkability. We will provide an overview of the development of form-based codes, their mandatory and optional component parts, and the importance of making form-based codes context or place-specific.
Crafting Engaging Email Newsletters with Constant Contact
Constant Contact is one of the leading internet-based email creation programs, and this course will lead you through the process of establishing an account, creating a branded template for repeated use, and crafting compelling content using text and images.
Managing Multiple Social Media Platforms with Hootsuite
Learn how to manage your Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn accounts—all under one roof.
Building Websites with Tumblr
Learn how to create simple and effective, yet dynamic, websites using the popular blogging service Tumblr.
Podcasting for Planners
Audio editing is a great way to tell a story, share information, create a digital record of events, or improve community outreach. In this course, learn the basics of podcasting and audio editing.
Gephi for Network Analysis and Visualization
Network Analysis helps urban planners, designers, and policy makers explore the dynamics and complexities of social networks and organizations. This course demonstrates the ways you can use the open-source Gephi software to visualize and analyze online social networks.
There's An App for That: Using Smartphones for Planning
As more and more cities make open their data to the public, smartphones are becoming an essential tool in citizen engagement and participation. Apps and mobile websites give planners the ability to seek input from their communities, locate potholes and other nuisances, and deliver useful info during public meetings.
LinkedIn for Planners
LinkedIn is an undervalued tool for professional networking and crafting your online identity. This course gives a step-by-step guide to setting up your LinkedIn profile and using it to your best advantage.