Program Overview

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Overview of the Master of Urban and Environmental Planning Program

The Master of Urban and Environmental Planning program at Arizona State University is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to become leaders in urban planning. Through interactive classes and real-world projects, students learn to solve complex social, economic, and environmental issues in diverse communities.

Program Details

• The program consists of 15 classes, each lasting 7.5-15 weeks.
• The total credit hours required for the program are 47.
• The program culminates in a capstone project, allowing students to engage with practical planning scenarios and showcase their skills.

Degree Questions Answered

The program is designed for individuals interested in urban planning, with a focus on creating healthier, safer, and more vibrant communities. Students learn to engage with practical planning problems and contemporary planning challenges, preparing them for roles in urban design, architecture, engineering, and development.

Knowledge and Skills Developed

Through the program, students develop a range of skills, including:

• Graphic communications
• Professional writing
• Project management
• Public participation and community engagement
• Public speaking and presentation
• Research and data analysis, including quantitative and qualitative methods

Ideal Candidates

Ideal candidates for the program are individuals with undergraduate degrees in urban planning, urban studies, public policy, geography, geographic information systems, or related disciplines. The program is also suitable for those with professional planning experience or an interest in cities, neighborhoods, and communities.

Professional Licensure and Certification

The program is designed to meet Arizona's requirements for professional licensure or certification. However, completing the program may not fulfill educational requirements for licensure or certification in other states.

Diploma

Arizona State University's diplomas do not specify whether the degree was earned online or in person.

Urban and Environmental Planning Courses

The program includes a range of core courses, such as:

• Environmental Planning
• GIS for Planners
• Planning and Development Control Law
• Planning, History and Theory
• Planning Practices, Ethics and Processes
• Urban and Regional Economic Analysis
• Urban Land Use Planning
• Qualitative Methods for Planners

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the program are prepared for a variety of careers, including:

• Building inspector
• Community development specialist
• Economic development analyst
• Environmental planner
• GIS analyst
• Planning consultant
• Sustainability planner
• Transportation planner
• Urban planner

Faculty

The program is taught by leading faculty in urban and environmental planning, including Fulbright American Scholars, Guggenheim Fellows, MacArthur Fellows, and Nobel laureates.

Application Requirements

Applicants must have a minimum of a 3.00 cumulative GPA in the last 60 hours of their bachelor's program. They must also submit:

• Graduate admission application and application fee
• Official transcripts
• Personal statement
• Up-to-date curriculum vitae or resume
• Optional: Up to three letters of recommendation

Personal Statement

The personal statement should be no longer than 600 words and must address the applicant's:

• Academic or professional background and preparation for the selected area of specialty
• Career goals, including how a Master's degree in urban and environmental planning will help achieve them
• Educational objectives
• Interest in planning

Letters of Recommendation

Letters of recommendation are not required but can be submitted to strengthen the application or provide necessary context.

Additional Admission Information

An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency.

State Authorization

The program is authorized to operate in various states, and students should visit the state authorization page to learn more about policies for out-of-state students and program exceptions.

Tuition Calculator

A tuition calculator is available to estimate full-time or part-time tuition fees for the program prior to any financial aid.

The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences

The program is part of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, which takes a transdisciplinary approach to education with a vast spectrum of degrees in the social sciences, natural sciences, and humanities. The college inspires students to become socially aware critical thinkers and global citizens.

Research and Faculty

The college has a strong research focus, with $161 million in research expenditures in FY23. The faculty includes prestigious students and faculty members, such as Fulbright American Scholars, Guggenheim Fellows, MacArthur Fellows, and Nobel laureates.

Student Enrollment and Degrees

The college has 31,572 students enrolled as of fall 2024 and offers over 100 undergraduate degrees. It is also home to 21 interdisciplinary schools and departments.

Conclusion

The Master of Urban and Environmental Planning program at Arizona State University is a comprehensive program that equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to become leaders in urban planning. With a focus on creating healthier, safer, and more vibrant communities, the program prepares students for a range of careers in urban design, architecture, engineering, and development.

Related Programs

Students may also be interested in related programs, such as:

• Geography (MA)
• Sustainability Leadership (MSL)
• Sustainable Food Systems (MS)
• Master of Public Administration (MPA)