Department of Urban and Regional Planning

About the Department

Established in 1980, the Department of Urban and Regional Planning adopts an expansive view of planning, covering areas such as economic development, environmental management, housing, urban design, transportation, health, and land use. In the past decade, it has experienced substantial growth, now recognized as the largest planning department in North West Iran, with distinguished faculty and over 350 enrolled students. The Department is committed to achieving excellence in research, teaching, and policy development in the context of urban and regional management. 

The department prioritizes research, but this does not diminish the importance of teaching, policy, and practical engagement. Instead, these aspects are consistently shaped by the globally recognized research efforts and knowledge generation of our academic team. Our research and Ph.D. programs aim to connect theory with policy and practice, rooted in a long-standing tradition in Tabriz and Iran. Students enrolled in our undergraduate, postgraduate, and Ph.D. programs gain insights into the social, economic, political, and environmental dynamics that influence both the local and national landscape, as well as the various methods through which public policy and community and private sector involvement can enhance quality of life.

Programs

Undergraduate Program

The Department provides a Bachelor of Arts in geography and urban planning. This program enhances the foundational elements of the city and regional planning course, enabling students to explore a broader spectrum of geographical topics. It familiarizes students with key environmental, cultural, political, economic, and social dynamics that influence locations globally, while fostering both theoretical and conceptual thinking alongside practical skill development. This integration equips students for diverse career opportunities.

Graduate Programs

The Department has been offering a master's program since 1993, providing diverse professional and academic training centered on urban planning topics. Recognized for its influence in planning, the Department aims to attract motivated students interested in conducting innovative research at the PhD level. Launched in 1998, the PhD program has experienced a growing enrollment of postgraduate students.