Environmental Planning and Design

Course Overview

A Certificate in Environmental Planning and Design will prepare students to develop a strategy to implement sustainable design practices at the landscape scale. An overview of planning tools, including the use of Geographic Information Systems, environmental impact analyses, and the principles of sustainable design will be integrated in this program. Students will apply these tools and knowledge gained through study of theory to design and build resilient, sustainable communities. Studies will be applicable to public and private sector planning processes and will emphasize collaborative processes and stakeholder involvement. Upon completion of this certificate, the student will be able to: Detail the elements necessary to design, implement, and evaluate sustainable developments, landscapes, and environments. Analyze the complex and dynamic interactions between humans and their environment. Explain the role of government policy at municipal, regional, national, and global levels to achieve sustainable development. Apply theoretical concepts to practical applications in order to design and implement sustainable environmental planning. Apply principles of environmental policymaking and environmental legislation, as well as socio-political influences to the field of environmental planning. Critically analyze complex, and often competing development plans for adherence to professional environmental planning and sustainability principles. American Public University is part of American Public University System, an accredited university offering more than 180 degree and certificate programs at the undergraduate and graduate level. All courses are online, so students have the flexibility of taking classes any time or any place that fits their schedule. Our degree programs are designed to be challenging and relevant to working adults in both the public and private sectors and can help enhance their current career or prepare them for a career change.