Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2026 - REM 602 G100

Professional Planning Practice (5)

Class Number: 2937

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 9 – Dec 6, 2026: Wed, Thu, 2:30–4:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    Enrollment in REM MRM (Planning).

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Examines planning practice, principles, theory, and ethics. Reviews issues in current professional planning practice and requirements for professional planning accreditation.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course covers planning practice, theory, and ethics. The aim of this course is to provide MRM planning students with training in principles of professional planning practice through a combination of lectures, seminars, discussions, and the applied analysis of planning tools. Skills necessary for obtaining professional employment and planning accreditation will be reviewed, along with a review of professional ethics in preparation for the Planning Standards Board (PSB) ethics exam.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

After completing REM 602, students will be able to:

  • Understand the distinction between planning goals and the various planning tools to help implement those goals;
  • Explain what major tools like comprehensive plans, strategic plans, zoning and design guidelines do, and how they can work together in implementing planning goals;
  • Describe a typical development application process in British Columbia;
  • Analyze one or more specific planning tools in depth in relation to its strengths and weaknesses in supporting goal implementation, by comparing how that tool is used for the same goal in two different jurisdictions, one of which is outside British Columbia;
  • Be able to explain various types of planning research used in scholarly work, and understand how this research can differ from research in practice;
  • Analyze the role of theory in shaping the desire for planning goals and in configuring particular practices;
  • Describe the multifaceted roles and ethical responsibilities of a planner; and
  • Explain how the roles and responsibilities of planners must adapt in a context of reconciliation with First Nations and other Indigenous peoples.

Grading

  • Planning Tools Assignment #1 and Presentation 25%
  • Group Research Presentation 25%
  • Smaller Individual Assignment 15%
  • Final Planning Tools Assignment and Reflection Theory 35%

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

Students will need a computer and access to the internet.

REQUIRED READING:

There are several core resources to support your learning in this course:
   - Course Required Readings
   - Course Required Videos
All the required and recommended readings and videos are listed within their respective study modules in Canvas.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.