MS in Accounting
Northeastern University in Boston offers a robust MS in Accounting pro...
MS in Urban Planning and Policy
Boston
INTAKE: Jan, Mar & Sep
Program Overview
The MS in Urban Planning and Policy at Northeastern University offers students the opportunity to engage deeply with the challenges facing modern cities, including growth, sustainability, transportation, housing, and social equity. The program emphasizes the development of practical skills in planning and policy analysis, focusing on integrating urban theory with hands-on application. Students are prepared for leadership roles in urban development, city governance, and public policy, enabling them to drive change in urban settings globally.
Curriculum: The curriculum combines core courses in urban planning theory and policy, with specialized classes in areas such as transportation planning, housing policy, sustainable development, and economic development. Students gain proficiency in urban data analysis, GIS (Geographic Information Systems), and planning tools while also learning about zoning laws, land use, and community engagement. The program encourages interdisciplinary learning, ensuring students develop a comprehensive understanding of the complexities of urban environments. Elective courses allow students to tailor their education according to their professional interests, such as sustainable urban infrastructure or smart city technology.
Research Focus: The MS in Urban Planning and Policy at Northeastern University fosters a strong research component, focusing on contemporary urban issues such as climate resilience, affordable housing, equitable development, and transportation infrastructure. Faculty and students collaborate on research projects that examine how urban environments can be made more sustainable, inclusive, and adaptive to change. The research focus also includes the application of innovative technologies in urban spaces, such as data analytics and machine learning, to address urban challenges effectively.
Industry Engagement: Northeastern University is renowned for its emphasis on experiential learning, and the MS in Urban Planning and Policy program integrates this by providing students with opportunities to engage with real-world urban planning projects through internships, co-op programs, and partnerships with local government agencies, NGOs, and private sector organizations. These industry engagements offer invaluable exposure to the practical application of urban planning principles, allowing students to gain firsthand experience and build professional networks that are critical for post-graduation career success.
Global Perspective: The MS in Urban Planning and Policy program at Northeastern University incorporates a global perspective, examining urban issues from an international viewpoint. Students study urbanization trends, policy responses, and planning strategies from diverse regions, gaining insights into the global challenges facing cities today. The program offers opportunities for international research projects, study abroad options, and a global understanding of how urban planning and policy frameworks can be adapted to different cultural, economic, and environmental contexts.
Location
Boston
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 33528
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 70% or above in their bachelor's degree.
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): Minimum score of 105.
Northeastern University in Boston offers a range of scholarship opportunities for international students to help alleviate the financial burden of studying in the United States. These scholarships are designed to support academically talented students from around the world, promoting diversity and fostering an inclusive campus environment.
Merit-Based Scholarships: Northeastern University provides merit-based scholarships to international students based on academic excellence and achievements. These scholarships are awarded during the admissions process and are highly competitive. The amount and criteria for these scholarships may vary, but they aim to recognize students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance, leadership potential, and a strong their chosen field of study.
Northeastern International Scholars Program: This prestigious program offers scholarships to outstanding international students who exhibit leadership, academic excellence, and a desire to contribute to the global community. The Northeastern International Scholars Program provides both financial support and opportunities for personal growth through networking events, leadership training, and involvement in community service initiatives.
Need-Based Financial Aid: Although Northeastern University does not offer need-based financial aid to international students, there are still many merit-based scholarships available that can significantly reduce tuition costs. However, international students are encouraged to seek external scholarships or funding from their home country to help cover the remaining costs.
External Scholarships and Funding: In addition to institutional scholarships, international students at Northeastern University can explore a variety of external scholarship opportunities from governments, foundations, and organizations in their home countries. Many international students receive funding from these sources to support their education at Northeastern.
MS in Urban Planning and Policy program at Northeastern University equips graduates with the skills and knowledge needed to take on key roles in shaping the future of urban environments, ensuring they are sustainable, inclusive, and resilient.
Urban Planner: Graduates can work as urban planners, designing and managing land use plans for cities and municipalities. These planners develop strategies for zoning, residential areas, commercial spaces, and green zones, ensuring sustainable and efficient use of urban spaces.
Policy Analyst: With expertise in urban policy, graduates can become policy analysts who evaluate and create policies that affect urban development, housing, transportation, and environmental sustainability. They work with governmental and non-governmental organizations to influence public policies that address urban challenges.
Transportation Planner: Graduates can pursue careers as transportation planners, focusing on the design, improvement, and optimization of transportation networks within cities. This includes public transit systems, traffic management, and sustainable transportation solutions.
Housing and Community Development Specialist: This role involves working with local governments or private sector firms to promote affordable housing, community development, and urban revitalization projects. Graduates can focus on addressing housing inequalities, improving social equity, and fostering inclusive development.
Environmental Planner: Graduates with an interest in sustainability can pursue careers as environmental planners, addressing the environmental impacts of urban development. They focus on incorporating green infrastructure, climate resilience, and sustainable building practices into urban planning strategies.
Smart City Specialist: With expertise in technology and urban planning, graduates can become specialists in smart cities. These professionals work on integrating IoT (Internet of Things) systems into urban infrastructure to improve city services, including traffic, waste management, and energy consumption.
Urban Policy Researcher: Graduates can work as researchers analyzing urban trends, policies, and challenges. They examine data related to economic development, social equity, and environmental sustainability, contributing to policy reforms and urban development strategies.
Sustainability Consultant: As sustainability consultants, graduates help cities and businesses develop strategies to reduce their environmental footprint. They advise on energy-efficient building practices, waste reduction, and sustainable urban growth policies.
Economic Development Officer: In this role, graduates help cities and local governments develop economic strategies to stimulate growth, attract investment, and support small businesses. They may work on urban regeneration projects, aiming to revitalize economically distressed areas.
Public Health Planner: Graduates can become public health planners, working to improve the health and well-being of urban populations. They focus on access to healthcare, healthy environments, and infrastructure that promotes public health.
Non-Profit Urban Development Specialist: Graduates can work with non-profit organizations focused on urban development, community advocacy, and social justice. They may be involved in programs that support low-income communities, affordable housing, or neighborhood revitalization.
