Masters of Urban Planning (M.U.P.)

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Application Fees : US$ 70

1. Academic Qualifications: A bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution is required for admission to a postgraduate program at CSUN. Applicants must have completed their undergraduate education with strong academic performance.

2. Minimum GPA: CSUN typically looks for a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) or its equivalent. 

3. English Language Proficiency: 

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 is required, with no individual band score below 6.
• TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based Test): A minimum overall score of 79 is required.
• PTE (Pearson Test of English): A minimum score of 58 is required.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): A minimum score of 105 is required.

4. GRE & GMAT : 

• GRE: A score of 305 or higher on the GRE General Test.

California State University, Northridge (CSUN), is committed to supporting international students in their pursuit of higher education. The university offers a range of scholarships and financial aid options to help alleviate the financial burden of studying in the United States. 

1. International Achievement Scholarship: CSUN's International Achievement Scholarship is designed to recognize and reward outstanding academic achievement. Eligibility is based on academic excellence, and recipients can receive up to $5,000 per academic year.

2. The Dream US Scholarship: This scholarship is specifically aimed at undocumented students, including those with DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) status. It provides financial support to help cover tuition and other educational expenses.

3. Intensive English Program (IEP) Scholarships: CSUN offers scholarships to international students who enroll in the Intensive English Program (IEP). These scholarships are awarded based on merit and help students improve their English language skills.

4. Privately Funded Scholarships: CSUN administers several privately funded scholarships that are available to international students. These scholarships may have specific eligibility criteria related to academic major, community involvement, or other factors.

5. Study Abroad Scholarships: CSUN encourages international students to participate in study abroad programs. The university offers scholarships to help offset the costs associated with studying abroad, including program fees and travel expenses.

6. External Scholarships: CSUN also assists international students in identifying external scholarship opportunities. These scholarships may be offered by government agencies, foundations, and international organizations.

7. Athletics Scholarships: CSUN has a competitive NCAA Division I athletics program. Talented international student-athletes may be eligible for athletics scholarships based on their sports achievements.

8. Cultural Scholarships: Some cultural organizations and clubs on campus may offer scholarships to international students who are actively engaged in promoting and celebrating their cultures.

9. Graduate Assistantships: For international graduate students, CSUN provides opportunities for graduate assistantships that offer a stipend and may include tuition remission. These positions allow students to gain valuable experience while pursuing their degrees.

10. Research Assistantships: - International graduate students can also explore research assistantship positions that provide financial support while contributing to research projects in their field of study.

Application Process: To be considered for scholarships at CSUN, international students typically need to complete the scholarship application provided by the university. Each scholarship may have specific eligibility criteria, deadlines, and application requirements.

The Master of Urban Planning (M.U.P.) program at California State University, Northridge (CSUN) is a prestigious and specialized graduate program that prepares students for diverse and impactful career opportunities in the field of urban planning and development. Graduates of this program are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to address complex urban challenges, shape sustainable communities, and contribute to the betterment of cities and regions.

1. Urban Planner: Many graduates pursue careers as urban planners, working in public agencies, private consulting firms, or nonprofit organizations. They play a pivotal role in developing and implementing land-use plans, zoning regulations, and policies that shape urban areas.

2. Transportation Planner: Graduates with an interest in transportation planning can work on improving transportation systems, including public transit, traffic management, and sustainable transportation solutions.

3. Environmental Planner: Environmental planners focus on balancing urban development with environmental conservation and sustainability. They work on projects related to land preservation, ecological restoration, and environmental impact assessments.

4. Housing Planner: Housing planners are involved in addressing housing affordability and availability issues. They work on policies and projects aimed at providing safe and affordable housing options for communities.

5. Community Development Specialist: Community development specialists work to enhance the quality of life in neighborhoods and communities. They may be involved in projects related to community centers, affordable housing, and infrastructure improvement.

6. Urban Designer: Urban designers combine the principles of architecture, landscape architecture, and planning to create aesthetically pleasing and functional urban spaces, streetscapes, and public places.

7. Real Estate Developer: Some graduates choose to work in real estate development, identifying opportunities for urban redevelopment, mixed-use projects, and revitalization efforts.

8. Land Use Analyst: Land use analysts evaluate proposed developments and their compliance with zoning and land use regulations. They provide recommendations to local governments and planning commissions.

9. GIS Specialist: Geographic Information System (GIS) specialists use spatial data to analyze and visualize urban planning issues, helping make informed decisions about land use, transportation, and infrastructure.

10. Policy Analyst: Graduates can work as policy analysts, evaluating existing urban policies and proposing changes to improve urban development, transportation, housing, and sustainability.

11. Regional Planner: Regional planners work on a broader scale, addressing planning issues that span multiple municipalities or regions. They often collaborate with government agencies and stakeholders on regional development strategies.

12. Nonprofit and Advocacy Organizations: Some graduates find fulfilling careers in nonprofit organizations and advocacy groups focused on urban and community development, social equity, and environmental sustainability.

13. Academia and Research: The M.U.P. program can serve as a foundation for those interested in pursuing doctoral studies and academic careers in urban planning or related fields.

14. International Development: Graduates with a global perspective may explore opportunities in international development, working on urban planning projects in different countries.

15. Private Sector Consulting: Consulting firms specializing in urban planning offer career opportunities for graduates to provide expert advice to public and private clients.

16. Public Administration: Urban planners with strong leadership skills and an interest in public administration may seek roles in local government or city management positions.