Master's degrees available for students interested in regional planning

Master's degrees available for students interested in regional planning

Current and prospective urban planners could find that obtaining a master's degree is beneficial for this industry, which offers multiple career opportunities. Those who decide to work in this field could find themselves working in local government, environmental consulting or architecture, according to Payscale.com. Fortunately, some schools are expanding their graduate-level programs in this subject.

Antioch University New England (AUNE) is one school that will now offer a professional master's degree (PSM) that focuses on sustainable development and climate.

Jim Gruber, the school's resource management and conservation director, said that this program prepares students for challenges they could face within the workforce.

Individuals who enroll in this program will learn in a variety of topics. These include business, communications, marketing and leadership. Students will also complete advanced mathematics and science training.

This program also provides individuals with the hands-on experience they could need to launch a successful career. Students will also have the opportunity to participate in research projects and internships with businesses or public institutions.

Schools that offer similar master's degrees could lead students to a high-paying career. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the top-grossing professionals working as urban and regional planners in 2008 earned more than $91,520 per year.

By Stephanie Hughes