Program Overview

Introduction to the Master of Urban and Regional Planning Program

The University of Iowa’s Urban and Regional Planning program is a top-ranked planning school that offers students access to faculty and the opportunity to study planning in a progressive city. The program is located in a leading public university and provides a walkable, bikeable community with a high quality of life.

Program Rankings

The program has been ranked as:

• 16th-best in the U.S. according to the Planetizen 2023 rankings of master’s programs in urban and regional planning
• Top in the nation among smaller planning programs with less than 55 students
• 2nd in the Midwest
• 2nd among planning schools in small cities
• 3rd in master’s programs without a PhD
• 5th-most selective
• 9th in programs at a public university

Accreditation

The School of Planning and Public Affairs urban planning masters program has been fully accredited by the Planning Accreditation Board (PAB) since 1970. PAB accreditation signifies a prestigious mark of quality and professional recognition for planning programs.

STEM Designation

The program has been designated as STEM-related under the U.S. Department of Education’s Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) coding. This designation allows international students who graduate from the program to extend their Optional Practical Training (OPT) to an additional 24 months, enabling them to work in the U.S. for three years.

Program Environment

The Urban and Regional Planning program is committed to supporting a learning environment that values diversity and promotes a rich educational experience. The program aims to contribute to the field of planning and the communities it serves.

Location

Iowa City, where the program is located, is frequently ranked among the top small to medium-sized cities in the nation. It has a four-STAR rating for its sustainability efforts and has been recognized as a bicycle-friendly community. Iowa City is also an UNESCO City of Literature in North America and is known for its lively arts scene, including the renowned Hancher Auditorium.