questions about applying for urban planning programs

[Hipster Duck]

So, I've been yearning to go to grad school after working for the last 2 years. I'd like to pursue a degree in urban planning with a focus on sustainable communities.

My background, however, is a BSc in Biochemistry with 2 years of work experience as an analyst at a market research company. Before working, I did a specialization course in pharmaceutical regulatory affairs so I'm kind of green to urban planning (no pun intended).

I have a few questions for our planners out there:

1) Do I need a bachelors in urban planning to consider doing a masters?

2) Is there a way to circumvent this somehow, by taking core bachelors courses?

3) How important are your undergrad marks after you've been out of school and in the workforce for 3 years?

4) What schools would you recommend, anywhere in the country, for people considering a Masters in planning with an emphasis on green design?

5) Can I leverage my work experience at all when applying for grad school? Is this something that schools look into?

6) What is the typical timeline for applying to a grad school. If I begin applying now, can I negotiate to start in January as opposed to September of 2007?

Any insights would be appreciated. Thanks a million!

 

[interchange42]

I can only answer 1). That answer is 'No'. In fact, most planners I know did not get a Bachelors in that area of study. A Masters in Planning is a far more common degree.

42

 

[salvius]

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[Hipster Duck]

Wow, thanks Salvius! That was really insightful.

I am planning on doing the GMAT anyway. I always seem to do better on those standardized tests than I do on school exams.