Urban and Regional Planning, Climate Change and Energy Concentration, B.S.

Urban and Regional Planning student doing fieldwork smiling.

Building Sustainable Futures: Planning for Climate Resilience and Clean Energy

The Climate Change and Energy Concentration prepares students to confront one of the most pressing challenges of our time: climate change and its wide-ranging impacts on people and the planet. This concentration offers a solid grounding in climate science while emphasizing the practical planning tools and strategies needed to implement sustainable solutions across urban development, energy systems, transportation, agriculture, and land conservation. Students delve into the complexities of rising global temperatures, shifting weather patterns, and growing environmental and social vulnerabilities. Through this work, they gain the skills to design resilient communities and lead the shift toward carbon-neutral and carbon-negative energy futures. The program also engages students in the political, technological, and logistical dimensions of energy transition—equipping them to navigate the real-world barriers to large-scale sustainability initiatives. Hands-on learning is central to the experience, with opportunities for applied research, internships, and community-based projects that prepare graduates to lead in climate and energy planning at local, national, and global levels.

Program Highlights

  • Plan and design for climate-friendly cities and energy systems
  • Gain hands-on learning through research and internships
  • Blend climate science, policy, and technology
  • Explore global and local climate solutions

Take the Lead in Climate and Energy Planning

Prepare for a career in sustainability and resilience.

Creating a Greener Tomorrow: Strategies for a Sustainable Future

  • The electric vehicle charger in the Commuter Lot. It is an orange machine and flanked by two, red safety pillars.

    Climate & Energy Focus

    Build a strong foundation in climate science while developing practical solutions for a more sustainable future. This concentration equips students to design carbon-neutral strategies and climate-resilient communities through integrated approaches to urban development, transportation, conservation, and energy transitions. Learn to navigate the complex challenges of a changing climate—and lead the way toward a cleaner, more equitable world.

  • Urban and Regional Planning student giving a presentation pointing to a poster.

    Hands-On Learning & Real-World Impact

    Put your learning into action through research projects, internships, and fieldwork. Collaborate with planning professionals, community partners, and policymakers to craft real-world solutions for climate-resilient communities and sustainable energy systems.

  • Urban and Regional Planning student and faculty member holding scientific equipment.

    Interdisciplinary & Future-Focused Curriculum

    Bridge climate science, policy, and emerging technologies to address today’s environmental challenges. Gain the knowledge and skills to implement sustainability initiatives, champion climate justice, and lead bold transitions to clean, equitable energy systems.

What Can You Do with a B.S. in Urban and Regional Planning – Climate Change and Energy Concentration?

A B.S. in Urban and Regional Planning with a concentration in Climate Change and Energy prepares students to lead in the fight against climate change and shape more sustainable, resilient, and equitable communities. This interdisciplinary degree opens doors to a wide range of careers at the intersection of environmental planning, clean energy, and public policy. Graduates are prepared to work across sectors—including government agencies, private consulting firms, nonprofit organizations, and research institutions—tackling real-world challenges such as carbon reduction, climate adaptation, energy equity, and sustainable urban development. Potential career paths:

  • Climate Resilience Planner
  • Sustainability Consultant
  • Energy Policy Analyst
  • Urban and Regional Planner
  • Environmental Planner
  • Environmental Justice Advocate
  • Green Building & Infrastructure Specialist
  • Renewable Energy Project Manager
  • Clean Energy Program Coordinator
  • Community Engagement & Outreach Specialist
  • Disaster Mitigation & Recovery Specialist
Sustainability & Energy Coordinator speaks to students and faculty.

Ready to learn more?

Course Requirements

Program Description

Climate change is one of the great, vexing problems of our time. Geographers, planners, and sustainability scientists work to understand and document our changing climate and to problem-solve around the issues of rising temperatures and sea levels, increasing frequency and potency of storms, social dislocations, injustice and vulnerability, and the urgent need to transition to carbon neutral or carbon negative energy sources. This concentration offers students the opportunity to develop expertise in these areas. Students acquire a robust background in climate science and apply that knowledge to the search for sustainable solutions in the areas of transportation, buildings, agriculture, conservation, and cities. Emphasis is placed on the energy systems that make these possible and the political, logistical, and technological challenges of implementing energy transitions. Resiliency planning for cities and towns in the face of increasing frequency of disasters is also addressed. Students have opportunities for hands-on experience through research projects and internships.

Regional Planning Foundation Courses - 19 Credits
Regional Planning Methodology Courses - 9 Credits

Required - 6 Credits

Choose One - 3 Credits

Regional Planning Required General Education Courses

Choose one of the following courses:

Climate Change & Energy Concentration -12 Credits

Choose any two courses from the following:

Electives - Choose two courses from the following:

Additional Graduation Requirements

All students must meet the  and complete a general education or common core of studies, distributed among the different academic areas as detailed in  or .

Get Big School Features with Small School Advantages

We offer high-quality academics, unique learning opportunities, and a gorgeous campus—and we have small classes, accessible faculty, and one-on-one support. 

You'll join fellow motivated students ready to make the most of the college experience through active participation. Become part of a caring and committed community that understands and embraces the bridge between academic study and civic responsibility.

  • 15:1

    student-faculty ratio

  • 87%

    of students receive financial aid

  • 700+

    Internship Opportunities

Learn from Experienced Faculty in Small Classes

Our faculty have a deep sense of pride in the work they do and are engaged in urban planning both inside and outside the classroom. Working with students, they provide research and advocacy on issues in the local community, such as developing a more bike-friendly Westfield and spearheading environmental stewardship initiatives in the Westfield River Watershed. For our faculty, urban planning is more than just an interest, it’s a life pursuit—and they instill that drive in their students.  

Faculty directory

GPS students and faculty members smiling at commencement ceremony.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to submit SAT/ACT scores or an essay when I apply?

Westfield State University does not require an application essay, SAT and/or ACT scores, or letters of recommendation (except for special program admissions).     

All first-year applicants are reviewed for admission based on their high school record. First-year applicants must meet the established by the in order to qualify for admission to a state university.   

Learn more about the application process and admissions here.

How much does Westfield State University cost?

Westfield State University offers a comprehensive university experience at an affordable cost—with many options for financial aid. ½­ÄÏÌåÓý our Cost and Aid page to learn more. 

Will I receive academic support?

We’re invested in your success. Whether you need a little help adjusting to college, study strategies, tutoring, or disability services, the team at the Academic Achievement Department is ready to help. Our mission is to provide you with the tools to explore academic opportunities as well as to plot strategies for continued growth. 

Learn more about our student support services here.

Request Information

We’re here to answer your questions and deliver the support you need along your academic journey. Please provide your contact information and area of interest, and we’ll be in touch shortly.

 

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Urban and Regional Planning, Climate Change and Energy Concentration, B.S.