The standard core curriculum provides a balanced approach that includes physical, social, economic and policy considerations. Other specialized areas of study can be tailored in conjunction with graduate programs elsewhere on campus. Students normally choose a concentration for which their undergraduate background is best suited. No specific undergraduate area of study is required.
Options are available for students with or without a design background.
The result is a rich cross section of students with a variety of interests. Ongoing public service and research projects provide a real-world dimension to the program. The Overseas Center for Urban Studies in Genoa, Italy, is a unique support element in the MCRP program. It provides the option of a one-semester overseas study experience for design oriented planners in an interdisciplinary program of planning, design and fine arts. A dual degree program is available to students with a previous degree in architectural design.