M.S. in Planning

Entry Requirements for International Students

Application Fees : US$ 90

For international students seeking postgraduate programs at the University of Arizona, certain entry requirements must be met. 

1. Academic Requirements: International students applying for postgraduate programs at UA are required to have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 70% or above. This academic benchmark demonstrates a solid foundation and academic capability, ensuring students are prepared for the rigor of graduate studies.

2. English Language Proficiency: UA accepts several standardized English language tests as evidence of language proficiency, including:

   • IELTS (International English Language Testing System): A minimum overall band score of 7 is required to meet the language requirement.
      
   • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): A minimum score of 80 on the internet-base test (iBT) is necessary to fulfill the English language requirement.
      
   • PTE (Pearson Test of English): An overall score of 68 or higher is required.
      
3. SOPHAS application fee : $145 

The University of Arizona offers a range of scholarships and financial aid opportunities for international students to support their academic journey. These scholarships are designed to recognize and reward outstanding academic achievements, leadership potential, and diverse backgrounds. 

1. Global Wildcat Scholarship: The Global Wildcat Scholarship is a merit-based scholarship available to incoming international undergraduate students. It provides partial tuition waivers for up to four years of study. Selection is based on academic excellence, leadership qualities, and contributions to the community.

2. International Tuition Awards: The International Tuition Awards are merit-based scholarships offered to international undergraduate and graduate students. These awards provide partial tuition waivers and are renewable for multiple years. Eligibility is based on academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, and potential to contribute to the university community.

3. International Student Tuition Discount: The University of Arizona offers a tuition discount to international students from select countries. The discount reduces the out-of-state tuition rate to a more affordable level, making it more accessible for international students to pursue their education at the university.

4. Graduate College Fellowships: The Graduate College at the University of Arizona offers several fellowship programs for international graduate students. These fellowships provide financial support for tuition and living expenses. The eligibility criteria and award amounts vary depending on the specific fellowship program.

5. College-Specific Scholarships: Various colleges and departments within the University of Arizona offer scholarships specifically tailored to international students in their respective fields of study. These scholarships may be based on academic achievement, research interests, or professional goals. Students can inquire with their specific college or department for available scholarship opportunities.

6. External Scholarships: The University of Arizona encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities. There are numerous scholarships provided by organizations, governments, and foundations that international students can apply for. The university's scholarship office can provide guidance and resources to help students identify and apply for external scholarships.

It is important for international students to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines may vary.

Graduates of the M.S. in Planning program from the University of Arizona have diverse career prospects in the field of urban and regional planning. 

1. Urban Planner: Graduates can work as urban planners in public agencies, municipal governments, or regional planning organizations. They are involved in land use planning, transportation planning, policy development, and community revitalization initiatives. Urban planners play a crucial role in shaping the built environment and ensuring sustainable development practices.

2. Environmental Planner: Graduates can pursue careers as environmental planners, focusing on the integration of environmental considerations into planning processes. They work on projects related to natural resource management, conservation, and sustainable development. Environmental planners collaborate with stakeholders to ensure that planning decisions align with environmental goals.

3. Community Development Specialist: Graduates can work as community development specialists, facilitating the revitalization of communities, promoting affordable housing initiatives, and implementing community-based programs. They collaborate with community organizations, nonprofit agencies, and local governments to address social equity, economic development, and quality of life issues.

4. Transportation Planner: Graduates can pursue careers in transportation planning, focusing on designing efficient and sustainable transportation systems. They work on projects related to transit planning, traffic management, and multimodal transportation strategies. Transportation planners aim to improve mobility, reduce congestion, and enhance accessibility within communities.

5. Private Sector Opportunities: Graduates can find employment in private consulting firms, real estate development companies, or nonprofit organizations. They may work on projects related to urban design, land development, market analysis, or feasibility studies. The private sector offers opportunities to contribute to planning projects from a business perspective.

The M.S. in Planning program at the University of Arizona equips students with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience necessary for successful careers in the planning field. Through a comprehensive curriculum, hands-on learning, and specialization options, graduates are prepared to address the complex challenges of urban and regional planning, contribute to sustainable development, and shape vibrant communities.