Urban and Regional Planning Technician - Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
406 - 606
Program Highlights
Have you ever wondered why our cities and communities look the way they do? Are you curious to learn about how decisions get made in communities? Or do you want to be part of a multi-discipline team that creates new exciting urban areas?
The Urban and Regional Planning Technician - Geographic Information Systems (GIS) program will provide you this foundation and knowledge through:
- Laws and policies that shape our urban environments.
- Design with Computer Aided Design (CAD) software.
- Geographic Information Systems (GIS), spatially representing data.
- Three-dimensional (3D) visualization software.
Benefit from a full year of work experience with three back-to-back co-op terms.
The urban planning program math is specifically designed to provide you with the essential concepts and methods you'll need for success in your studies and future career, without extra topics that aren't directly applicable. In addition to in-class instruction, the college offers various supports to help you learn and succeed in math, should you experience any difficulties.
Start with a diploma, Finish with a degree.
Explore Mohawk College’s Urban and Regional Planning pathway program to earn a Bachelor of Urban and Regional Planning (BURPI)
Course Overview & Descriptions
Click on the course title for a course description.
Learning Outcomes
Program Learning Outcomes, often referred to as ‘Program Standards', set out the essential learning that a student must achieve before being deemed ready to graduate.
In many cases these program learning outcomes were developed by the Ministry of Colleges and Universities (MCU) in consultation with employers and educators who are experts in the program field. To ensure the outcomes remain current and in line with industry needs, we invite our employers, graduates working in the field and current students to re-examine and update them during regular, ongoing program review focus groups.
Admission
- OSSD or equivalent (Mohawk Academic Upgrading, GED) including:
- Grade 12 English, C or U or equivalent
- Grade 11 Mathematics, C, M or U level or equivalent
- Grade 10, 11 or 12 Design Technology courses recommended
Options are available for mature applicants.
Don't have the necessary requirements?
Language Requirements for Applicants with English as a Second Language
- See below for accepted equivalents for Grade 12 English:
- Successful completion of the GAS-English for Academic Purposes (478) program
- TOEFL minimum score of 550 (80 Internet based)
- or IELTS Academic minimum score of 6.0 overall with no band less than 5.5
- More information about acceptable certificates, can be found on the International Admission Requirements
Applicants whose first language is not English will be required to demonstrate proficiency in English.
Tuition and Fees
2025 - 2026 Domestic Tuition and Fees
| Description | Semester 1 | Semester 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Compulsory Ancillary Fees | $907.11 | $809.78 |
| Co-op Fees | N/A | N/A |
| Compulsory Program Fees | $40.00 | $0.00 |
| Domestic Tuition | $1,354.04 | $1,354.04 |
| Total Domestic Charges Per Semester | $2,301.15 | $2,163.82 |
| Total 1st Year Fees | $4,464.97 | |
Above fees based on full-time September program start date. Contact Student Services to confirm fees for other start dates or semesters.
- Full Cost Breakdown
- Explore payment options
- Book costs for your program can be found through the Campus Store
- You will also be required to purchase a laptop (or personal computer, where deemed appropriate). Additional program-specific software and hardware may also be required. Full details will be provided in your classes or at your orientation. This is an additional cost (above tuition/ancillary fees and textbooks).
2025 - 2026 International Tuition and Fees
| Description | Semester 1 | Semester 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Total Tuition & Ancillary Fee | $8,890.00 | $8,890.00 |
| Program Compulsory Fees | $40.00 | $0.00 |
| International Tax Recovery | $450.00 | $375.00 |
| Total International Charges Per Semester | $9,380.00 | $9,265.00 |
| Total 1st Year Fees | $18,645.00 | |
If you pay by wire transfer, please note your bank might charge you a fee to transfer money. Make sure your transfer includes the Mohawk payment and the wire transfer fee. This applies to each wire transfer payment you make.
- Explore payment options
- Book costs for your program can be found through the Campus Store
- You will also be required to purchase a laptop (or personal computer, where deemed appropriate). Additional program-specific software and hardware may also be required. Full details will be provided in your classes or at your orientation. This is an additional cost (above tuition/ancillary fees and textbooks).
Additional Information
Financial Assistance
When it comes to paying for your education, investing in your future can be more affordable than you think. A Mohawk education is one of the most cost-effective means of acquiring the skills and knowledge you need to have a prosperous and rewarding career.
As you start on your chosen career path, it's important to have a realistic set of expectations regarding the expenses associated with attending college. In addition to your tuition fees, you will also need to budget for books, supplies, housing, and other related living expenses. You may be able to supplement your income and savings with scholarships, bursaries, or loans. It pays to do some research into what types of financial assistance you may qualify for.
Available Financial Assistance Resources:
OSAP Eligible. Learn about Ontario Student Assistance Program - OSAP (domestic students only)- Working on Campus
- Additional Sources of Funding
- Financial Assistance Home Page
Apply for Awards:
By submitting a Scholarships and Bursaries Application every semester, students have access to over $3 million in Mohawk College scholarships, bursaries and Ministry-partnered funding to help meet their financial needs.
Financial Literacy:
Whether saving for school, sticking to a budget, or planning for a major purchase, financial literacy affects us all. That's why Mohawk College is dedicated to helping students improve their financial literacy and become more confident in managing their money.
- Complete the free online Money Matters Module to earn Co-Curricular Credit!
- Financial Resources and Calculators
Experiential Learning
How you’ll gain skills
- Gain hands-on experience through labs and practical projects over four semesters.
- Explore academic content through field trips and site visits.
- Experience interactive simulations.
- Apply cumulative program knowledge through a capstone research project.
- Gain valuable experience during co-op work terms.
To learn more, please visit the Centre for Experiential Learning.
Co-op Format
| September to December | January to April | May to August |
|---|---|---|
| Semester 1 | Semester 2 | Vacation |
| Semester 3 | Work Term 1 (Co-op) | Work Term 2 (Co-op) |
| Work Term 3 (Co-op) | Semester 4 |
Co-op Delivery and Fees
This program has an optional co-op, as part of the program of study. The annual co-op fee structure can be found on the Tuition and Fees page.
For questions, please contact the Co-op Specialist listed at the bottom of the webpage.
Driver’s License and Vehicle
Please note that the majority of co-op positions for this program require that students have a valid driver’s license ('G' class preferred) and access to a vehicle.
Co-op Work Term Locations
Please note that co-op work terms for Urban and Regional Planning are typically in-person and/or hybrid and require extensive field work.
Co-op Designation
This program offers three co-op work term opportunities but requires two completed co-op work terms for the co-op designation.
Work Term Capabilities
The Urban and Regional Planning Technician – Geographic Information Systems (GIS) diploma program uses an applied learning model that prepares students for real world experience. Work-related simulations form the foundation of courses in applied planning law, site planning, subdivision design and community design.
After completing three full semesters of the program, the student will have acquired sufficient knowledge and specialized skill to perform the following activities:
- Review and process development applications through informed interpretation and application of various land use plans and planning instruments governed by the Ontario Planning Act;
- Prepare site plans and draft plans of subdivision, both manually and with the use of computer-aided drafting (CAD);
- Apply fundamentals of urban design in land use plans;
- Contribute to the production of planning justification reports;
- Utilize the latest Geographic Information Systems (GIS) tools (ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Online, basic web development using ArcGIS API for JavaScript, and ArcGIS StoryMaps) to perform spatial analysis, prepare maps and develop basic web apps;
- Utilize GIS to build technical tools from prototype through to launch;
- Prepare research reports by performing basic data collection and presentation techniques; and
- Explain the legal basis of land ownership in Ontario, compare the Registry and Land Titles land registry systems, and identify steps in property purchase and types of land ownership.
| Co-op Pay Range | Co-op Pay Average |
|---|---|
| Range: $18.00 - $27.00 | Average: $23.00 |
For further information, please contact:
Karen Brown, Co-op Specialist
Phone: 905-575-2161
Email: Karen.Brown [at] mohawkcollege.ca (Karen Brown)
Educational Pathways
Pathways to Mohawk
If you've successfully taken a course at another post-secondary institution, you may be able to earn course exemptions toward your credential here at Mohawk.
If you have successfully completed one of the following programs at Mohawk, you may be eligible to receive transfer credit in this program. To start a new program at Mohawk, you must apply via ontariocolleges.ca.
Receiving Program
Urban and Regional Planning Technician - Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
Transfer to
You can transfer from the Urban and Regional Planning Technician - Geographic Information Systems (GIS) - 406 - 606 to the following programs:
Architectural Technician
Architectural Technology
Civil Engineering Technician
Civil Engineering Technology
Civil Engineering Technology - Transportation
Mohawk College makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of each transfer opportunity. Please note that changes may occur in program offerings, admission requirements, and transfer credits granted by the receiving institutions. We advise all students to check with the receiving institution directly for the most up-to-date information.
Don’t see what you’re looking for? Search ONTransfer.ca for more pathways with Ontario public colleges and universities.
Mohawk College makes no warranty or endorsement of material contained within links to external websites, nor does the College assume any responsibility for the linked website or its contents.
Additional Information
Urban Planning Math
The urban planning program math is specifically designed to provide you with the essential concepts and methods you'll need for success in your studies and future career, without extra topics that aren't directly applicable. In addition to in-class instruction, the college offers various supports to help you learn and succeed in math, should you experience any difficulties.
View Sample Student Projects
Tech requirements
Software
AutoCAD is required for this program. A free download for students is available through the AutoCAD website. To be eligible for this download you must register with your Mohawk email, pass the system requirements test, and provide proof of enrollment (Photo of ONE Card, letter of acceptance, etc.). Note that you can only complete this registration process after your program start date.
Hardware
The Engineering programs recommend the "Best Specifications" as listed on the Student Tech Support Hardware Specifications page.
Note: We do not recommend using a Mac as the software required in this program has many usability issues with their operating system.
Career Opportunities
Your future career options
- Planning Technician and Technologists
- CAD Technicians
- Surveying/GIS Technicians
Where you could work includes:
- Public and Private Sectors
- Engineering Consulting
- Land Development Companies
- Real Estate and Utility Companies
Opportunities for grads
- Students are automatically enrolled in the Canadian Association of Certified Planning Technicians (CACPT).
Have you ever wondered why our cities and communities look the way they do?
Learn more about the Urban and Regional Planning Technician - Geographic Information Systems program from faculty and industry leaders.
We're here for you to support applications and admissions by providing online and virtual services.
General Inquiries
Please call 905-575-1212
Applied and have questions?
Email Admissions or Book an appointment in person or by phone.
Haven't applied and need help?
Email Recruitment or Book an appointment in person or by phone.
Applied as an international student?
Take a Virtual Campus Tour
Explore Mohawk College from the comfort of home! Our virtual campus tours provide a guided visit of our buildings, labs, services, classrooms and athletic and recreation centre.
Program Delivery
Learn about program delivery terms.
Please note: in-person, virtual, and hybrid classes vary according to the program and some programs may be in-person only. Refer to the Program Overview for more information.
The Urban and Regional Planning Technician - Geographic Information Systems program at Mohawk College is an excellent, well-rounded program that provides students with a full range of technical, academic and professional skills. Holding previous post-secondary education, I found this program especially beneficial for rounding out my skills and helping me get into the workforce. Holding a diploma from the Urban and Regional Planning Technician - Geographic Information Systems program at Mohawk College has helped me get to where I am today because it played a major role in my hiring at an engineering consulting firm. With my knowledge gained from theUrban and Regional Planning Technician - Geographic Information Systems program, I am able to bring another point of view to the design table and assist the engineers and planners in better communication between one another.
– Sarah Rooyakkers, Graduate 2019
The Urban and Regional Planning Technician - Geographic Information Systems program at Mohawk College was a natural choice for me. I knew I wanted to work in the field of urban planning and design and my studies have provided me with the foundation I need to start my career. The program provides a well-rounded curriculum covering subjects from planning theory and law to advanced AutoCAD and GIS. The instructors bring a wealth of knowledge to the program and their guidance and support was key to my success.
– Manselle Drummond, Graduate 2020
With the support of my professors and peers, Mohawk gave me the skills to understand and interpret Ontario’s planning policy and legislation. The various projects and case studies helped me to understand what I would be tasked with in the workplace. The skills gained have provided tremendous insight and knowledge preparing me for various planning environments, including planning consultants or municipalities. I will be continuing my education at Toronto Metropolitan University, taking advantage of the two-year degree completion program.
– Davin Metheral, Graduate 2020
Ready to apply?
If you are a Domestic or Canadian applicant, you can apply through the Ontario College Application System.
You are considered a Domestic applicant if you are a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident that resides inside or outside of Canada.
Contact us
Domestic Canadian Students
Contact Student Recruitment
Haven’t applied yet and have questions?
Contact our Student Recruitment team for information on programs, how to apply, and more.
Contact Admissions
Contact our Admissions advisors for help with your application.
Email Admissions
Book an Appointment ⤻
Phone: 905-575-1212
International Students
Contact International Student Recruitment
Contact our International Student Recruitment team for information on programs, how to apply, and student life.
Contact International
Email: intl.representatives@mohawkcollege.ca
Phone: 1-905-575-2254
Toll free phone numbers:
For general questions: 1-888-Mohawk9 (1-888-664-2959)
Contact International Admissions
Contact our Admissions advisors for help with your application.
Contact International Admissions
Phone: 1-905-575-2254
*Not all programs are international eligible. Please see our programs available for international students.
Program Coordinator
James Horan
Accessible Learning Services
Are you a student with a confirmed or suspected disability? Visit our Accessible Learning Services website to discover how we can help you.
