Brookings Main Campus
Build communities and serve as a leader.
Prepare to lead community-based planning and development for sustainable, economically healthy communities. The major develops students for careers in planning agencies where they can attain positions as city managers and community planners at the city, county, state or regional level. The program also qualifies graduates to hold positions in organizations such as housing agencies, community and neighborhood development corporations, economic development agencies, federal agencies and private development firms and foundations.
Is it for you?
This program will be a good fit if you:
- Interest in public service.
- Critical thinking and problem solving.
- Have strong leadership, detail, communication and interpersonal skills .
- Are curious about how things work and have the ability to think in terms of spatial relationships.
- Work well with diverse groups of people.
Career Opportunities
- City/community planner
- City manager
- Environmental consultant
- Housing authority administrator
- Economic development leader
Recent Employers
- City of Fargo Planning Office
- City of Sioux Falls Planning Office
Suggested Certificates
Suggested Minors
Clubs and Organizations
- Geography Club
Undecided or still deciding on a major and future career?
If you are uncertain about your major and have questions about career planning, you are not alone. Choosing a major or career can be a very difficult decision. The exploratory studies program may be a good fit if you are unsure of your major and career focus. Entering the university in the exploratory studies program will help you gain confidence and valuable insights on majors and minors available at SDSU and future career choices.
In addition, FOCUS 2 Career, a self-guided assessment, education and career planning program, will help you reflect on your values, interests, personality traits and skills to provide valuable insight as you explore major and career choices. SDSU students may access FOCUS 2 Career by using their student email and password. After completing FOCUS 2 Career, you may find it helpful to discuss your results with a career coach in the Office of Career Development.