B.A. in Urban and Community Planning

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Application Fee: $55

Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their previous academic qualifications.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
• TOEFL: Overall score of 79 or higher.
• PTE: Overall score of 53 or higher.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): Overall score of 100.

Central Michigan University (CMU) offers various scholarships and financial aid opportunities to support international students in their pursuit of higher education. These scholarships are typically awarded based on academic merit, talent, or specific criteria. 

Global Ambassador Scholarship: This scholarship is for undergraduate international students with a strong academic record and a promoting cultural exchange. Recipients of this scholarship serve as cultural ambassadors on campus.

International Opportunity Awards: These awards are available to both undergraduate and graduate international students. They are based on academic achievement, leadership potential, and contributions to the CMU community.

Departmental Scholarships: Some academic departments within CMU may offer scholarships specific to their field of study. These scholarships are typically based on academic achievement and may require students to meet certain criteria.

External Scholarships: CMU encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities from organizations, foundations, and governments. The university's scholarship office can provide guidance on identifying and applying for these scholarships.

CMU Merit Scholarships: While primarily available to domestic students, CMU does offer merit-based scholarships that may be accessible to high-achieving international students.

It's important to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and award amounts can change from year to year.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Urban and Community Planning from Central Michigan University are well-prepared for a diverse range of career opportunities within the urban and regional planning field. The program’s comprehensive curriculum and practical experience provide a strong foundation for various roles.

Urban Planner: Urban planners develop and implement plans and programs for land use in urban areas. They work on zoning regulations, land development, and community design to ensure that cities and towns are functional and aesthetically pleasing. Their role involves collaborating with stakeholders, conducting research, and preparing reports to guide urban growth and development.

Community Development Specialist: Community development specialists focus on improving the quality of life in communities by promoting economic development, social services, and housing initiatives. They work with local governments, non-profits, and community groups to identify needs and create strategies that enhance community well-being and resilience.

Land Use Planner: Land use planners manage the allocation of land resources to balance development needs with environmental protection. They develop land use plans that address residential, commercial, and recreational needs while considering factors such as environmental impact and infrastructure requirements.

Transportation Planner: Transportation planners design and evaluate transportation systems and policies to improve mobility and accessibility. They work on projects related to public transit, road networks, and pedestrian pathways, ensuring that transportation systems are efficient, safe, and sustainable.

Environmental Planner: Environmental planners focus on integrating environmental considerations into planning processes. They assess the environmental impact of development projects, develop strategies to mitigate negative effects, and ensure compliance with environmental regulations and standards.

Housing Specialist: Housing specialists work on projects related to residential development and affordable housing. They address issues such as housing affordability, quality, and accessibility, and develop policies and programs to support diverse housing needs within communities.

Economic Development Planner: Economic development planners work to stimulate economic growth and development within communities. They develop strategies to attract businesses, create job opportunities, and support local economies. Their work often involves analyzing economic trends, preparing development plans, and working with business owners and investors.

Public Policy Analyst: Public policy analysts research and evaluate policies related to urban planning and community development. They analyze the effectiveness of existing policies, propose new policies, and provide recommendations to policymakers based on data and research.

Consulting Planner: Consulting planners provide expertise and advice on urban and community planning projects to private firms, government agencies, and non-profit organizations. They offer specialized knowledge on planning issues, conduct feasibility studies, and assist with project implementation.

Real Estate Development Manager: Real estate development managers oversee the planning, design, and execution of real estate projects. They manage project budgets, coordinate with stakeholders, and ensure that developments meet market demands and regulatory requirements.

Academic or Researcher: Some graduates may choose to pursue careers in academia or research, contributing to the field of urban and community planning through teaching, research, and scholarly publications. They may work at universities, research institutions, or think tanks.