

INTEGRATED-M-PLAN in Environmental Planning at School of Planning and Architecture, New Delhi


Delhi, Delhi
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About the Specialization
What is Environmental Planning at School of Planning and Architecture, New Delhi Delhi?
This Environmental Planning program at School of Planning and Architecture, New Delhi, focuses on developing professionals capable of addressing complex environmental challenges in urban and regional contexts. It emphasizes sustainable development, ecological conservation, and policy formulation, crucial for India''''s rapidly urbanizing landscape. The program integrates scientific understanding with planning practices to foster resilient and green communities, meeting the growing demand for environmental experts in the Indian market.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a background in planning, architecture, engineering, or environmental sciences seeking entry into the environmental planning sector. It also serves working professionals in urban development, NGOs, or government agencies looking to upskill in sustainable practices, and career changers transitioning to environmental roles. Candidates with a strong analytical aptitude and a commitment to ecological sustainability are particularly well-suited.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in environmental consulting, urban planning departments, government bodies (e.g., MoEFCC, pollution control boards), research institutions, and NGOs across India. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 4-7 lakhs per annum, with experienced professionals earning INR 10-25 lakhs or more. The program prepares students for roles such as Environmental Planner, EIA Specialist, Conservation Manager, or Policy Analyst, aligning with national and international environmental certifications.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Environmental Principles- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on building a strong foundation in environmental sciences, ecology, and planning theories by actively engaging with lectures, readings, and case studies. Form study groups to discuss complex topics and clarify concepts.
Tools & Resources
Textbooks on environmental science, ecological principles, NPTEL, Coursera (for supplementary learning), SPA library resources, Peer discussion forums
Career Connection
A robust theoretical understanding is crucial for all future specializations and forms the basis for effective policy formulation and impact assessment, essential for environmental planner roles.
Develop Foundational Planning Software Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in Planning Studio I & II, focusing on developing proficiency in GIS, CAD, and basic statistical software. Utilize these tools for mapping, data analysis, and visual representation of environmental data.
Tools & Resources
ArcGIS, QGIS, AutoCAD, Microsoft Excel, SPSS/R, University computer labs, Online tutorials (e.g., YouTube, ESRI Academy for ArcGIS)
Career Connection
Strong technical skills in geospatial analysis and planning software are non-negotiable for most environmental planning positions, directly improving employability and efficiency in project execution.
Engage with Current Environmental Policies- (Semester 1-2)
Supplement coursework by regularly reading Indian environmental policy documents, news articles on environmental issues, and reports from government bodies (MoEFCC, CPCB). Participate in college debates or discussions on environmental governance.
Tools & Resources
Official websites of MoEFCC, CPCB, Reputable news sources (e.g., Down To Earth, The Hindu), Environmental journals, Guest lectures from policy experts
Career Connection
Staying updated on policy landscape provides critical context for coursework and demonstrates awareness to potential employers, especially in government or regulatory roles.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Practical EIA/SEA Projects- (Semester 3)
Actively participate in Planning Studio III, focusing on real-world Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) projects. Seek out opportunities for field visits and data collection.
Tools & Resources
EIA guidelines (MoEFCC), Environmental monitoring equipment (if available), Case study reports, Mentorship from faculty with industry experience
Career Connection
Hands-on experience in EIA/SEA is a highly sought-after skill in environmental consulting, directly enhancing project management and analytical capabilities for entry-level positions.
Network with Industry Professionals- (Semester 3)
Attend seminars, workshops, and conferences on environmental planning and disaster management. Connect with guest speakers, alumni, and professionals from relevant organizations. Leverage LinkedIn for professional networking.
Tools & Resources
College career services, LinkedIn, Professional bodies like Institute of Town Planners, India (ITPI), Local environmental NGOs
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to internships, mentorship, and future job opportunities, providing insights into industry trends and facilitating career growth.
Specialize through Electives and Research- (Semester 3)
Strategically choose elective courses that align with specific career interests (e.g., waste management, climate change, urban ecology). Begin exploring potential dissertation topics early, focusing on a niche area within environmental planning.
Tools & Resources
Faculty advisors, Research databases, Academic journals, Industry reports, Peer review of research ideas
Career Connection
Specialization enhances expertise, making graduates more competitive for targeted roles in areas like climate change adaptation, resource management, or environmental policy.
Advanced Stage
Excel in Dissertation Research- (Semester 4)
Dedicate significant time to the dissertation, ensuring rigorous research methodology, thorough data analysis, and a well-structured thesis. Seek regular feedback from your supervisor and incorporate it effectively.
Tools & Resources
Research software (e.g., NVivo for qualitative, R/Python for quantitative), Academic writing guides, Plagiarism checkers, University library services
Career Connection
A high-quality dissertation showcases research capabilities, critical thinking, and independent problem-solving, which are highly valued by employers and for further academic pursuits.
Master Interview and Presentation Skills- (Semester 4)
Participate in mock interviews, group discussions, and presentation workshops organized by the college''''s placement cell. Refine communication skills for both technical and non-technical audiences.
Tools & Resources
Placement cell resources, Career counselors, Online platforms for interview preparation, Public speaking clubs, Peer feedback
Career Connection
Polished interview and presentation skills are crucial for securing placements and effectively communicating research or project outcomes in professional settings.
Strategic Placement Preparation & Portfolio Building- (Semester 4)
Prepare a compelling portfolio showcasing studio projects, field reports, and relevant coursework. Tailor your resume and cover letters to specific job descriptions. Actively apply for positions and network during placement drives.
Tools & Resources
Portfolio design tools (e.g., Adobe InDesign, online portfolio websites), Resume builders, Career fair events, Alumni network, Job portals
Career Connection
A strong portfolio and targeted application strategy are key to standing out to recruiters and securing desirable roles in environmental planning.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor''''s Degree in Planning or Architecture or Civil Engineering or Architectural Engineering or Environmental Engineering or Master''''s Degree in Geography or Economics or Sociology or Environmental Science or Landscape Architecture or Urban Design or Building Engineering and Management or Equivalent. Minimum 55% aggregate marks (50% for SC/ST/PwD candidates) at the qualifying examination.
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 78 Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EP101 | Environmental Sciences and Ecology | Core | 3 | Fundamentals of Environmental Sciences, Ecosystems, Environmental Pollution and Control, Biodiversity and Conservation, Environmental Economics and Ethics |
| EP102 | Environmental Planning: Principles and Practices | Core | 3 | Concept and Scope of Environmental Planning, Environmental Planning Methods, Tools and Techniques, Environmental Impact Assessment, Environmental Management Systems, Indian Environmental Policies and Legislation |
| MP103 | Planning Techniques | Core | 3 | Data Collection and Analysis, Statistical Methods, Geospatial Technologies (GIS, Remote Sensing), Mapping and Graphics, Demographic Analysis |
| MP104 | Planning Theory and History | Core | 3 | Evolution of Planning Thought, Theories of Planning, Historical Development of Planning in India, Urbanization Processes, Contemporary Planning Issues |
| EP105 | Planning Studio I (Environmental Planning) | Studio | 6 | Site Analysis and Assessment, Environmental Survey and Mapping, Problem Identification, Development of Environmental Planning Proposals, Presentation Techniques, Field Study Integration |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EP201 | Environmental Legislation and Governance | Core | 3 | Constitutional Provisions, Environmental Laws in India (E(P)A, Water Act, Air Act), Regulatory Frameworks, Role of Institutions, International Environmental Agreements |
| EP202 | Natural Resource Management and Planning | Core | 3 | Land Use Planning, Water Resource Management, Forest and Wildlife Management, Mineral Resources, Coastal Zone Management, Sustainable Resource Use |
| EP203 | Environmental Pollution Control and Management | Core | 3 | Air Pollution Control, Water and Wastewater Treatment, Solid Waste Management, Noise Pollution, Hazardous Waste Management, Pollution Prevention Strategies |
| MP204 | Research Methods in Planning | Core | 3 | Research Design, Data Collection Techniques, Quantitative and Qualitative Methods, Sampling, Report Writing, Ethics in Research |
| EP205 | Planning Studio II (Environmental Planning) | Studio | 6 | Regional Environmental Assessment, Policy Analysis, Formulation of Environmental Plans, Stakeholder Engagement, Conflict Resolution |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EP301 | Environmental Impact Assessment and Strategic Environmental Assessment | Core | 3 | EIA Process and Methodology, Environmental Impact Prediction, Mitigation Measures, Public Participation in EIA, SEA Principles and Practice, Case Studies |
| EP302 | Disaster Management and Climate Change Adaptation | Core | 3 | Concepts of Disaster, Disaster Risk Reduction, Climate Change Science, Impacts and Vulnerability, Adaptation and Mitigation Strategies, Resilience Planning |
| EP303 | Environmental Economics and Valuation | Core | 3 | Environmental Economic Concepts, Valuation Techniques, Cost-Benefit Analysis, Market-Based Instruments, Green Accounting, Environmental Policy Instruments |
| Elective I | Green Infrastructure and Climate Change | Elective | 3 | Green Infrastructure Concepts, Ecosystem Services, Climate Change Adaptation, Green Building Design, Sustainable Landscapes, Policy Frameworks |
| EP305 | Planning Studio III (Environmental Planning) | Studio | 6 | Integrated Environmental Planning, Project Implementation Strategies, Monitoring and Evaluation, Public-Private Partnerships, Advanced Policy Formulation |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EP401 | Urban Ecology and Conservation Planning | Core | 3 | Urban Ecosystems, Ecological Footprint, Urban Biodiversity, Conservation Strategies, Green Belts, Urban Forestry |
| EP402 | Environmental Health and Risk Assessment | Core | 3 | Environmental Health Indicators, Exposure Assessment, Risk Characterization, Health Impact Assessment, Occupational Health, Disaster Health Management |
| Elective II | Planning for Waste Management | Elective | 3 | Waste Generation and Characterization, Integrated Waste Management, Solid Waste Treatment Technologies, Hazardous Waste Management, Policy and Regulations, Circular Economy |
| EP403 | Seminar | Core | 3 | Current Environmental Issues, Research Presentation, Critical Analysis, Academic Writing, Public Speaking |
| EP404 | Dissertation | Project | 12 | Research Topic Selection, Literature Review, Methodology Development, Data Analysis, Thesis Writing, Viva-Voce |




