Planning theory is a hallmark of the Berkeley PhD program, and all DCRP doctoral candidates are required to demonstrate competence in this body of scholarship. The Department offers a number of courses dealing with aspects of planning theory. To complete this requirement, students must take and pass the following two courses, though they are encouraged to take other courses as well:

• CY PLAN 282: Planning and Governing, typically offered during the fall semester
• CY PLAN 281: Theories of Planning Practice, typically offered during the spring semester