Master Planning Practices (Course 102) FY2026

Objective

Equip students with a foundational comprehension of DoD and Department of the Army Installation strategies and their impact on the development of Comprehensive Plans. This includes fundamental knowledge of installation missions, the Army's force structure, and available systems for essential information in installation planning. Emphasize the significance of installation vision and goals in shaping future planning actions. All instruction will take place in Fairfax, VA. Courses are instructed by military and federal representatives. This course is part of the Department of Defense Master Planning Institute in partnership with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. 

Course Description

This course provides students with a basic understanding of the following:

• 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.
• Comprehensive Plan: Explores the purpose, components, and role of the plan in guiding military installation development, stressing alignment with broader strategic objectives.
• Vision Planning: Focuses on the strategic role of vision in shaping long-term goals, managing risk, and aligning installations with overarching strategic objectives.
• Building Vision with SWOT and Surveys: Provides practical insights into constructing visions for military installations using tools like SWOT analysis and Visual Preference surveys.
• Requirements Development: Covers the identification and prioritization of essential elements to required to support the installation mission.
• Condition Assessments and Space Utilization: Enables students to evaluate infrastructure through condition assessments and emphasizes efficient space utilization strategies.
• PPBE Process: Introduces students to the Planning Programming Budgeting and Execution process, ensuring systematic resource allocation aligned with strategic objectives and budgetary constraints.
• Briefing Skills Development: Includes practical training in communicating complex plans, visions, and assessments effectively to diverse stakeholders, fostering understanding and support.

Target Audience

This class has no prerequisites and is open to all government employees, the general public, and the consulting community. The class is suitable for planners in cities and towns, meeting the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) certification requirements for continuing education.

Payment Methods

Preferred: Pay with Credit Card via this online portal

Accepted: Wire Transfer and Check

• Please email northern@virginia.edu and provide the following details:
• Name of Participant(s)
• Company
• PO# (if applicable)
• You will be provided with an invoice that outlines how to complete the payment via wire and check.
• Email northern@virginia.edu notifying the team that you have submitted payment.
• Once the University of Virginia has received payment confirmation, you will be added to the course.