Master of Regional Planning (M.R.P)

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Application Fees : US$ 90

1. Academic Qualifications:

• Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution.
• A minimum undergraduate GPA equivalent to 65% or above is required.
   

2. English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS (International English Language Testing System) with an overall score of 6.5 or higher. No individual band score should be less than 6.0.
• TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language) with an overall score of 80 or higher.
• DET (Duolingo English Test) with a score of 105 or higher.
• PTE (Pearson Test of English) with a score of 53 or higher.

The University of Massachusetts, Amherst (UMass Amherst), offers various scholarships and financial aid options to international students to help make their education more affordable. 

1. International Students Scholarships: UMass Amherst provides several merit-based scholarships specifically for international students. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership, and other criteria. The exact eligibility requirements and award amounts may vary, so it's essential for students to check with the university's financial aid office for the most up-to-date information.

2. Graduate Assistantships: International graduate students can explore opportunities for assistantships, which may include research assistantships, teaching assistantships, or administrative roles. These positions often provide a stipend, tuition remission, and valuable professional experience.

3. Fulbright Scholarships: UMass Amherst participates in the Fulbright Program, which offers scholarships to international students pursuing graduate studies, research, or teaching at U.S. universities.

4. Global Scholars Program: This program is designed for academically talented undergraduate international students. It provides partial tuition waivers and is competitive based on academic achievement.

5. External Scholarships: UMass Amherst encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities, such as those offered by governments, foundations, and organizations in their home countries.

6. Research and Departmental Scholarships: Some academic departments and research centers at UMass Amherst offer scholarships and funding opportunities for international students engaged in specific research projects or academic programs.

7. Athletic Scholarships: International students who excel in sports may have opportunities to receive athletic scholarships if they join UMass Amherst's athletic teams and meet the eligibility criteria.

8. Private Scholarships: UMass Amherst encourages students to search for private scholarships that align with their interests, background, or field of study. These scholarships may be available from non-profit organizations, corporations, and foundations.

It's crucial for international students to research scholarship opportunities, meet application deadlines, and fulfill any specific requirements for each scholarship program.

The Master of Regional Planning (M.R.P) program at the University of Massachusetts Amherst (UMass Amherst) equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to pursue rewarding careers in urban and regional planning. Graduates of this program are well-prepared to address complex challenges related to land use, transportation, sustainability, and community development.  

1. Urban Planner: As urban planners, graduates can work for government agencies, consulting firms, or nonprofit organizations to develop and implement plans that guide the growth and development of cities and regions. They play a crucial role in creating sustainable, inclusive, and vibrant communities.

2. Environmental Planner: Environmental planners focus on ensuring that development projects comply with environmental regulations and contribute to sustainability. They assess the environmental impact of projects and propose solutions to minimize negative effects.

3. Transportation Planner: Transportation planners are responsible for improving transportation systems, reducing traffic congestion, and enhancing mobility. They work on projects related to public transit, highway planning, and the integration of sustainable transportation options.

4. Housing and Community Development Specialist: Graduates can work on initiatives aimed at improving housing affordability and quality, revitalizing neighborhoods, and addressing homelessness. They collaborate with local governments and nonprofit organizations to implement community development programs.

5. Land Use and Zoning Analyst: Land use and zoning analysts research and evaluate land use regulations and zoning codes. They help communities make informed decisions about land use policies and zoning changes to support sustainable development.

6. GIS Analyst: Geographic Information Systems (GIS) analysts use spatial data to create maps and models that assist in urban and regional planning. They contribute to data-driven decision-making processes and assist planners in visualizing complex spatial relationships.

7. Policy Analyst: Some graduates choose careers as policy analysts, working in government agencies or research organizations to analyze and develop policies related to urban and regional planning, sustainability, and community development.

8. Nonprofit and Community Development Manager: Those interested in social impact and community development can work for nonprofit organizations or community development corporations. They lead initiatives to address social and economic disparities, affordable housing, and neighborhood revitalization.

9. Consultant: Many M.R.P graduates become planning consultants, offering their expertise to government agencies, private firms, or community organizations. They provide guidance on land use, economic development, and sustainability projects.

10. Academic or Researcher: Some graduates choose to pursue further studies and research in planning-related fields or teach urban and regional planning at the university level.