Master of Science in Urban Planning and Development
Master of Science in Urban Planning and Development
Master of Science in Urban Planning and Development
An interdisciplinary graduate program designed to prepare professionals to plan, manage, and lead the sustainable growth and transformation of urban and regional communities.
Master of Arts in Urban Planning and Development
US$ 5,940
36 Credit Hours
18 Months
9–12 Months
3 Credit Hours
US$ 5,940
Plan & Build Sustainable Communities
Integrate urban planning theory, community development, environmental sustainability, transportation planning, housing policy, geographic information systems (GIS), urban governance, and economic development to address the complex challenges facing modern cities.
The Master of Science in Urban Planning and Development is an interdisciplinary graduate program designed to prepare professionals to plan, manage, and lead the sustainable growth and transformation of urban and regional communities. The program integrates urban planning theory, community development, environmental sustainability, transportation planning, housing policy, geographic information systems (GIS), urban governance, and economic development to address the complex challenges facing modern cities.
Students examine urban growth, land-use planning, infrastructure development, community revitalization, public policy, smart cities, social equity, environmental resilience, and sustainable urban management. The curriculum emphasizes analytical skills, research methods, stakeholder engagement, strategic planning, and evidence-based approaches to creating inclusive, resilient, and sustainable communities.
Graduates develop advanced competencies in urban analysis, planning practice, project management, policy development, and community leadership, preparing them for careers in government agencies, urban planning organizations, real estate development, nonprofit organizations, consulting firms, international development agencies, and doctoral-level study.
Master of Arts in Urban Planning and Development
18 Months — Traditional Learning Track
9–12 Months — Fast-Track Learning Program
3 Credit Hours per Course
US$ 5,940
Exclusive of applicable University administrative fees
Required Courses
The Master of Science in Urban Planning and Development requires 36 total credits.
| Course No. | Course Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| UPD 6000 | Foundations of Urban Planning and Development | 3 |
| UPD 6010 | Urban Theory, Growth, and Spatial Development | 3 |
| UPD 6020 | Sustainable Urban Development and Resilience | 3 |
| UPD 6030 | Land Use Planning and Urban Design | 3 |
| UPD 6040 | Housing Policy and Community Development | 3 |
| UPD 6050 | Transportation Planning and Infrastructure Management | 3 |
| UPD 6060 | Urban Governance, Policy, and Administration | 3 |
| UPD 6070 | Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Urban Data Analysis | 3 |
| UPD 6080 | Urban Economics and Development Strategies | 3 |
| UPD 6090 | Strategic Planning and Leadership in Urban Development | 3 |
| UPD 6100 | Master's Thesis | 6 |
| Total Credits | 36 | |
Course Descriptions
Select a course to view its description.
UPD 6000 – Foundations of Urban Planning and Development
Introduces the history, concepts, principles, and practices of urban planning and development. Students examine the role of planners in shaping cities, communities, infrastructure systems, and sustainable urban environments.
UPD 6010 – Urban Theory, Growth, and Spatial Development
Explores theories of urbanization, city growth, spatial organization, demographic change, metropolitan development, and the social and economic forces influencing urban transformation.
UPD 6020 – Sustainable Urban Development and Resilience
Examines sustainable urban development principles, climate resilience, environmental planning, green infrastructure, resource management, and strategies for creating adaptable and sustainable cities.
UPD 6030 – Land Use Planning and Urban Design
Focuses on land-use systems, zoning principles, urban design concepts, neighborhood planning, public spaces, and strategies for creating functional, inclusive, and livable urban environments.
UPD 6040 – Housing Policy and Community Development
Analyzes housing systems, affordability challenges, community revitalization, social equity, neighborhood development, and policies that support inclusive urban growth.
UPD 6050 – Transportation Planning and Infrastructure Management
Examines transportation systems, mobility planning, infrastructure development, public transit, urban connectivity, and approaches to improving accessibility and efficiency in cities.
UPD 6060 – Urban Governance, Policy, and Administration
Explores urban governance structures, public administration, municipal policy development, stakeholder collaboration, budgeting, and leadership strategies for effective city management.
UPD 6070 – Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Urban Data Analysis
Introduces GIS applications, spatial analysis, urban data management, mapping technologies, and analytical methods used for planning, decision-making, and urban research.
UPD 6080 – Urban Economics and Development Strategies
Examines economic development, urban markets, investment strategies, entrepreneurship, public-private partnerships, and policies that promote sustainable economic growth in cities.
UPD 6090 – Strategic Planning and Leadership in Urban Development
Develops advanced skills in strategic planning, project management, leadership, community engagement, and implementation of urban development initiatives.
UPD 6100 – Master's Thesis
Students complete an original research thesis addressing a significant issue in urban planning and development. Under faculty supervision, students conduct research, analyze urban challenges, and develop evidence-based recommendations for improving communities and urban systems.
Career Opportunities
Graduates are prepared for professional, analytical, managerial, and leadership roles in urban planning, development, and community transformation.
Employment Sectors
Graduates may pursue opportunities across municipal government, urban planning organizations, real estate development, consulting firms, and international development agencies.
Ready to Shape the Cities of Tomorrow?
Explore the Master of Science in Urban Planning and Development and take the next step toward advancing your career in urban planning, community development, and sustainable city management.
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