Hello!
I am curious as to what the most effective way to become an urban planner is. Most of the threads on it seem to be outdated.
Since urban planning careers typically require a master’s degree in the field, what are some good undergraduate majors to prepare for urban planning graduate study? Also if I end up deciding to choose a different career, I would like to have a bachelor’s degree that will still allow me to find a job. One major I am considering is Anthropology, but I fear that it would be difficult to find a job with that degree.
(Sorry I posted in the wrong forum first time around, so I hope this is the right place) 
Thanks for any help!
All the social sciences along with geography or history could lead to an urban planning degree.
Consider an undergrad in urban planning with a expedited grad program.
You could major in pretty much anything and go into urban planning.
There are the traditional social sciences that lead into it - anthropology, geography, political science, sociology.
But there are also natural and physical sciences majors that make a lot of sense in tandem with urban planning - environmental science, geology/earth sciences, atmospheric science, engineering (especially civil, mechanical, industrial, or environmental), physics or chemistry.
It helps if you have a rough idea of what kind of urban planning you’re interested in, but even without that just pick something that you’re interested in. Anthropology majors can get jobs after college. It’s a bit easier with one of the natural or physical sciences listed above - they’re in more demand, and salaries are on average higher. But you won’t necessarily be unemployed if you major in anthropology either.
Thanks, @juillet ! I am interested in historical preservation, urban design, and housing aspects of urban planning. Once I learn more, I will narrow it down
Many schools have a department of planning in their undergraduate school of architecture or design. I’ve heard Cornell is among the best; they offer a major in “Urban and Regional Studies.”
Economics is another social science relevant to urban planning.
Thanks, @zzzlc
I have noticed that but not many undergrad programs are accredited by the APA, especially in my homestate, where I will be attending college
Have you tried the Cal Polys? They both house accredited urban planning undergrad and masters degrees in their architecture/env design colleges. Cal Polys are known for excellent arch/construction/planning programs.
Yes! I will be applying to both:) @1andonly