COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Urban and Regional Planning (MURP) degree requires a total of 54 credit hours for completion, structured to provide both a strong foundational understanding of planning principles and the flexibility to pursue individual academic and professional interests. Out of the total credits, 36 hours must be completed through required core courses that establish essential knowledge in urban and regional planning theory, methods, and practice. These core courses ensure that students develop a solid grounding in the key areas of the discipline, including planning processes, policy analysis, design thinking, and technical skills necessary for professional practice. In addition to the core requirements, students must complete 18 credit hours of elective courses, allowing them to specialize in areas that align with their career goals and personal interests within the field of planning. Within these electives, at least 3 credit hours must be taken in an advanced skills or methods course, which is designed to enhance technical competency and provide deeper training in specialized analytical or professional tools used in planning practice. Throughout the program, students are expected to maintain academic standards by meeting minimum course grade requirements as well as achieving the required cumulative grade point average, as outlined in the program’s academic and grading policies. These standards ensure that graduates demonstrate consistent academic performance and readiness for professional roles. In certain cases, the total credit requirement of 54 hours may be reduced for students who qualify for advanced standing based on prior academic or professional experience, or for those who have approved transfer credits from other institutions, subject to program approval and evaluation. This flexible yet structured credit system is designed to balance academic rigor with adaptability, enabling students to build both broad-based knowledge and specialized expertise while progressing toward the completion of the MURP degree and preparation for careers in urban and regional planning.