by John MacGregor
Online Masters Degrees Programs Columnist

Modern cities don’t come about by accident. Skilled planning is required to ensure that land is developed thoughtfully and put to its best use. A civil engineering master’s degree offers training to pave the way for planning careers in the public and private sectors.

The Right Place in the Right Time

Are you interested in living in an affluent, rapidly growing urban or suburban community? The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that these communities are in greatest need of planners with civil engineering backgrounds. Planners are needed to develop plans for the growth and revitalization of cities and towns everywhere. Planners work out solutions to environmental, social, and economic problems while also providing advice to local government officials. Planners may also work on projects like alternative transportation, protecting ecologically sensitive areas.

Let a Master’s Degree in Civil Engineering Pave the Way for Your Career

According to the BLS, “A bachelor’s degree from an accredited planning program, coupled with a master’s degree in civil engineering is good preparation for entry-level planning jobs in various areas, including urban design, transportation, and the environment.” Seven out of ten planners are employed by local governments, but the BLS projects that the strongest demand for new planners will come from the private sector in coming years. An online master’s degree can prepare you for the planning rush by allowing you to work full time while earning your degree through distance learning.

Source

BLS

About the Author

John MacGregor is a freelance writer with degrees from the University of California in Comparative Literature and Law. He has traveled widely and worked on civil rights, government, education, and technology projects.