Appalachian State University
Planning Graduate Certificate
Application Deadlines
Spring Admission
November 1
Fall Admission
April 1
Admission Requirements
Admission requirements vary by program. Learn more
Location
Boone campus
Turn data and design into thriving communities
A Graduate Certificate in Planning from App State enhances your knowledge, skills and career development in the field of community, urban and regional planning — preparing you to address complex land use, development and community planning challenges.
Through the program’s curriculum, you will engage in analytical work, data interpretation and problem-solving that reflect current planning practices. You will explore urban design, zoning, environmental planning, transportation and public policy, gaining a broad understanding of how to guide environmentally responsible growth.
Graduates are prepared for roles in municipal and regional planning agencies, nonprofit organizations, environmental consulting firms and related organizations. The certificate also enhances qualifications for those seeking to enter or advance in planning-related careers, or to pursue further graduate study in public administration, geography or planning disciplines.
A 2025 Best
The Princeton Review named App State among the best schools in the U.S. and the Southeast for 2025.
Top 3
U.S. News & World Report has recognized App State as a top 3 university for innovation for 8 consecutive years.
Top School for 2024–25
Forbes magazine ranked App State among “America’s Top Colleges” for 2024–25.
Concentrations and Courses
Careers and Mountaineers
Where can an App State degree take you? Anywhere you want to go!
Careers
- Urban Planner or City Planner
- Regional Planner
- Community Development Specialist
- Environmental Consultant
- Transportation Planner
- GIS Analyst or Specialist
- Zoning Specialist
- Real Estate Development Manager
- Housing or Economic Development Officer
- Historic Preservation Planner
Some of these roles may require education beyond a graduate certificate.
Employers
- Government Agencies (Local, State or Federal Level)
- Higher Education or Research Institutions
- Nonprofits and Community Organizations
- Architecture and Engineering Firms
- Historic Preservation Agencies
- Real Estate Development Companies
- Private Planning and Environmental Consultancies
Career information resource
App State’s Career Development Center
Services provided by the Career Development Center include resume reviews, career coaching, job and internship search assistance, and other tools for you to achieve life and professional success.
More to Explore at App State
International Experience
Work outside your cultural boundaries. Learn more
Professional Development
Invest in yourself with opportunities designed to stimulate career growth. Learn more
Graduate Assistantships
Earn some money while you earn your degree. Learn more
Apply
Are you ready to become a Mountaineer? Take the next step, apply for admission to App State and elevate your future success.
Admissions questions? Contact us.
Connect
Program Contact
Dr. Derek J. Martin
Program Director
[email protected]
828-262-8905
Department of Geography and Planning
College of Arts & Sciences
Visit Campus
Experience the beauty of App State’s Boone campus firsthand. Tour campus, virtually or in person. Explore App State’s Boone home.
Admissions Events
Want to know more about the people and programs of App State’s School of Graduate Studies? Attend an information session.