Program Overview
The Ph.D. in Urban and Regional Planning prepares graduates for research and teaching careers in academia, research agencies, or large planning organizations. The program emphasizes general planning skills while allowing specialization in a chosen area. Students complete coursework in urban and regional development, planning methods, and theory, and conduct original dissertation research. Graduates are well-equipped for careers in academia, research, government, and the nonprofit sector.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Ph.D. in Urban and Regional Planning is designed to prepare graduates for teaching or conducting research in a university, independent research agency, or large planning organization. The program emphasizes developing general skills and mental attitudes common to all planning endeavors while allowing students to specialize in a planning area of interest.
Outline:
The Ph.D. program typically involves two years of full-time coursework followed by one or two years of dissertation preparation and defense. Students are required to complete 51 graduate credit hours, including:
- 9 credits on the structure and processes of cities and regions
- Completion of a doctoral minor or Graduate/Professional certificate
- Dissertation research (typically 27-30 credits) Course offerings cover various planning topics, including:
- The nature of urban and regional development processes over time
- The impact of urban and regional development on the social, economic, environmental, institutional, and physical structure of cities and regions
- The response of federal, state, and local governments to urban and regional development issues
- The role of planners in developing public policy and programs to address development-related issues
- Research design, data collection, quantitative and qualitative planning research methods, and planning theories
Assessment:
Students must pass three preliminary field examinations: planning theory, planning methods, and planning specialization. The examinations assess students' knowledge of the field and their ability to conduct research. Students must also maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA and achieve an average GPA of 3.5 in the courses satisfying the Structure and Processes of Cities and Regions requirement.
Teaching:
The program is taught by a faculty of leading urban and regional planning scholars who provide students with a diverse range of perspectives on the field. Faculty members are actively involved in research and work closely with students to support their intellectual development and research interests.
Careers:
Graduates of the Ph.D. program are well-prepared for careers in academia, research, government, and the nonprofit sector. They have a deep understanding of planning theory and practice and can conduct independent research and analysis to inform planning and policy decisions. Potential career paths include:
- University professors
- Research scientists in planning agencies
- Planners in government agencies
- Policy analysts in nonprofit organizations
- Consultants in planning firms
University of Wisconsin–Madison
Overview:
University of Wisconsin–Madison is a public research university located in Madison, Wisconsin. It is known for its strong academic programs, extensive research enterprise, and vibrant campus life. The university is guided by the Wisconsin Idea, a philosophy that emphasizes the importance of using knowledge to improve the lives of people beyond the campus.
Services Offered:
The university offers a wide range of services to students, including:
Academic Support:
Academic advising, tutoring, writing centers, and career services.Student Life:
Student organizations, recreational facilities, cultural events, and health services.Technology:
Access to computer labs, online resources, and software.Housing:
On-campus residence halls and off-campus housing options.Financial Aid:
Scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Students at UW–Madison can expect a vibrant and engaging campus experience. The university boasts a diverse student body, a wide range of student organizations, and a lively social scene. The city of Madison offers a variety of cultural attractions, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Strong Academic Programs:
UW–Madison is home to a wide range of academic programs, including highly ranked programs in engineering, business, medicine, and the humanities.Research Opportunities:
The university is a leading research institution, offering students opportunities to participate in groundbreaking research projects.Wisconsin Idea:
The university's commitment to public service provides students with opportunities to make a positive impact on the world.Vibrant Campus Life:
UW–Madison offers a lively and engaging campus experience with a diverse student body, a wide range of student organizations, and a variety of cultural events.Location:
Madison is a beautiful and vibrant city with a strong sense of community.Academic Programs:
UW–Madison offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including:
Engineering:
The College of Engineering is highly ranked and offers programs in areas such as computer science, electrical engineering, and mechanical engineering.Business:
The Wisconsin School of Business is known for its strong programs in finance, marketing, and entrepreneurship.Medicine:
The School of Medicine and Public Health is a leading institution in medical research and education.Humanities:
The university offers a wide range of programs in the humanities, including English, history, philosophy, and art history.Other:
Athletics:
UW–Madison is a member of the Big Ten Conference and has a strong athletic tradition.Alumni Network:
The university has a large and active alumni network, providing students with valuable connections after graduation.Sustainability:
UW–Madison is committed to sustainability and has a number of initiatives to reduce its environmental impact.Entry Requirements:
- Master's degree in planning or a related field
- Professional experience as a planner for at least one year
Language Proficiency Requirements:
- Applicants whose native language is not English or have not received their undergraduate instruction in English must meet the Graduate School's minimum English proficiency requirements.
