The Program curriculum gives students both a broad understanding of the urban and regional environment and a foundation of skills needed to plan for this environment. The Program strives for a careful balance between the theoretical, historical, and conceptual knowledge about urban and regional development on the one hand, and the acquisition of practical skills and methods of analysis on the other. Students move through core courses, specializations, internships, and a thesis or applied research paper.
Elective courses allow students to further specialize in an area of interest.
The core is designed to impart basic knowledge applicable to wide sectors of planning. Through applied studio courses, the Program provides students with the opportunity to exercise both their knowledge and skill in situations ranging from large city neighborhoods to moderately sized cities and small towns. In the specialization coursework and the internship, the student develops skills focused on a particular aspect of city and regional planning. Finally, a thesis or applied research paper provides an opportunity for focused study in the student's major area of specialization. Matriculation towards a MCP degree requires 56 semester hours of successfully completed course and research work.