Introduction to Comprehensive Planning- ONLINE (Course 101+102) FY2026
Ended Feb 9, 2026
36 credits
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Full course description
Objective
This course equips students with a basic knowledge of urban planning theories, models, and frameworks used in DoD comprehensive master planning, which includes consideration of DoD and Department of the Army strategies and initiatives. This includes fundamental knowledge of installation missions and the Army's force structure that will form the foundation of urban design principles and their integration into comprehensive master plans. Course will emphasize the significance of installation vision and goals in shaping future planning actions. This course is part of the Department of Defense Master Planning Institute in partnership with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. All courses are currently virtual.
Course Description
This course provides students with a basic understanding of the following:
Two Days
- Urban Design Concepts: Understand the principles and concepts of urban master planning, including its history, evolution, and significance in shaping cities.
- DoD Structure and Operations: Students gain essential insights into the DoD's organizational structure, functions, and collaborative operations, emphasizing the importance of understanding hierarchy for effective planning, including the policies and regulations establishing the DoD master planning practice. Primary focus will be on UFC 2-100-01.
- Comprehensive Master Planning: Learn the key components of a comprehensive urban master plan, such as land use, transportation, housing, environment, and infrastructure.
- Vision Planning: Focuses on the strategic role of vision in shaping long-term goals, managing risk, and aligning installations with overarching strategic objectives.
- Sustainable and Resilient Planning: Understand the importance of sustainability, resilience, and equity in urban master planning.
- Natural, Cultural, and Historic Resource Management: Gain insights into how to manage natural, cultural, and historic resources within the context of urban planning.
- Infrastructure Planning: Understand the importance of planning all utility, transportation, and green infrastructure as a system.
- Healthy Community Planning: Examine strategies for planning and designing communities that promote health and well-being.
Three Days
- Requirements Development: Identify and prioritize essential elements required to support the installation mission.
- Condition Assessments and Space Utilization: Evaluate infrastructure through condition assessments and emphasize efficient space utilization strategies.
- Standard Designs/Army Standards: Determine differences in the two, impact on development, programming and planning.
- Form-Based Planning: Practice form-based planning principles and their application in urban design and development.
- Application: Develop COAs for installation expansion or change in mission the student will be able to apply the concepts of UFC 2-100-01 to develop effective plans.
- PPBE Process: Introduce students to the Planning Programming Budgeting and Execution process, ensuring systematic resource allocation aligned with strategic objectives and budgetary constraints.
- Briefing Skills Development: Practice in communicating complex plans, visions, and assessments effectively to diverse stakeholders, fostering understanding and support.
Payment Methods
Preferred Options
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Credit Card (Online Portal):
Pay via the online portal. Please note that some federal government firewalls may block access; if you experience issues, we recommend paying by phone. -
Credit Card (By Phone):
Call Lindsey Wilkins at (434) 982-0015, or email mmpi.northern@virginia.edu to schedule a call to complete your credit card payment.
Other Accepted Methods
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Wire Transfer or Check
To pay by wire transfer or check, please email mmpi.northern@virginia.edu and include:
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Name(s) of participant(s)
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Company
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PO number (if applicable)
You will receive an invoice with instructions for completing payment via wire or check. Once payment has been submitted, please email mmpi.northern@virginia.edu to notify our team.
Registration will be confirmed once the University of Virginia receives payment.
Registration Questions:
Email mmpi.northern@virginia.edu
Credit Card Statement Description:
Charges will appear as “UVA NORTHERN VIRGINIA.”
Refund Policy
Registrants can get a full refund until 60 days from the program start. No refunds will be available after that date. To cancel your registration and request a refund, please contact northern@virginia.edu.
UVA Privacy Policy
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