Tennessee's Planning pathway introduces urban and regional planning, development planning, and community development. Tennessee's growing cities and evolving rural areas benefit from thoughtful planning and community development.
Students study planning processes, zoning and regulations, sustainable development, community engagement, and project management. Hands-on work includes analyzing neighborhood plans and participating in community planning projects.
Graduates pursue careers in municipal planning, development organizations, or community development nonprofits. Many continue to university planning programs.
Planning at a Glance
4
Courses
4
Credentials
4
Career Paths
State Standards & Framework
Tennessee's planning standards align with planning professional standards and sustainable development principles. The state emphasizes community engagement and equitable development.
Students complete planning analysis projects and participate in community planning processes. Assessment includes planning knowledge, analytical skills, and communication abilities.
Typical Course Sequence
| Course |
|---|
| Introduction to Government |
| Urban Planning I |
| Urban Planning II |
| Planning Practicum |
Industry Certifications & Credentials
- ✓First Aid/CPR/AED
- ✓National Career Readiness Certificate (NCRC)
- ✓Microsoft Office Specialist
- ✓IC3 Digital Literacy Certification
Career Opportunities
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2024). Growth projections from BLS Employment Projections (2023-2033). Cost-of-living adjustment uses BEA Regional Price Parities (2023). Entry-level salaries reflect the 25th percentile; experienced salaries reflect the median.
Planning Assistant
Entry LevelAdjusted for cost of living: $34,587
Planner
ExperiencedSalary range: $38,840 - $60,800
Adjusted for cost of living: $53,610
Development Manager
ExperiencedSalary range: $91,710 - $154,540
Adjusted for cost of living: $119,423
Director of Planning
ExperiencedSalary range: $65,880 - $161,270
Adjusted for cost of living: $111,165
Work-Based Learning Opportunities
Students intern with municipal planning departments, regional planning organizations, and community development corporations.
Career & Technical Student Organization
Students in this pathway can participate in Community Organizations, Planning Commissions, gaining leadership experience and competing in career-related events.
How Sage Helps Tennessee CTE Programs
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Tennessee Standards Built In
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Teacher Customization
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Ongoing Updates
Curriculum stays current as Tennessee standards and industry needs evolve
Related Pathways in Tennessee
Governance
Tennessee's Governance pathway prepares students for careers in government, public policy, and civic leadership. Understanding governance structures and processes is essential for democratic participation, and careers in government offer stable, meaningful work. Students study government structure and processes, legislative procedures, public policy development, administrative practices, and civic engagement. Hands-on experience includes researching policy issues and working on community service projects. Graduates pursue careers in local, state, or federal government; public policy organizations; or nonprofit advocacy groups. Many continue to university public administration or political science programs.
Government & Public AdministrationPublic Management & Administration
Tennessee's Public Management & Administration pathway develops skills for managing government agencies and public service organizations. Effective public administration is essential for delivering services to citizens and managing public resources. Students develop competencies in organizational management, public budgeting, program evaluation, human resources in public service, and administrative operations. Coursework emphasizes ethical leadership and public accountability. Graduates pursue careers in public administration, nonprofit management, or government operations. Many advance to management roles in government agencies or public institutions after gaining experience.
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