The core curriculum, together with the electives, offers the student an in-depth understanding of the multiple dimensions of urban development and the sociopolitical history of planning and urban architecture. A wide variety of internships are available for students in the master's programs. The Ph.D. program, established in 1976, has prepared more than fifty graduates with Doctor of Philosophy degrees. These individuals have gone on to become leaders in the private and public sectors, excelling in such areas as business, commerce, governmental affairs, health and human services, criminal justice, and academia. The program is designed for individuals with at least midlevel policy experience, who are capable of both sharing and expanding their particular policy backgrounds through rigorous research and conceptual analysis.
Many students maintain their professional position while pursuing the degree on a part-time basis.
The combined holdings of the University libraries total approximately 1.3 million volumes and some 11,500 continuations. Special collections include 35 million pages of Vatican manuscripts and extensive theological holdings. The University is a member of the Center for Research Libraries. Students have access to other University libraries in the city. Computer centers and research offices are fully staffed.