This course is an examination of the theories, policies, and processes involved in the planning, design, and development of communities across the United States. Emphasis will be placed on the ways in which our communities shape and are shaped by economic, environmental, social, and political forces. Students will gain a fundamental understanding of the roles of citizens, landowners, governmental organizations, and private firms in community decision-making. Because community development is interdisciplinary in nature, the course will draw on the arts, sciences, and social sciences to examine various aspects of community growth and change.