Overview

The M.Sc. in Urban Studies and Planning at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is a non-professional degree tailored for individuals with significant experience in city planning or related fields. This advanced programme allows students to pursue a self-directed academic path under the close supervision of expert faculty members. It is specifically intended for those who have a defined research agenda and a clear vision for their graduate contributions.

Why Urban Studies and Planning at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)?

Students benefit from the department's deep integration with the MIT School of Architecture and Urban Planning, providing access to world-class labs and interdisciplinary research initiatives. The programme is distinguished by its flexibility, allowing professionals to leverage MIT’s extensive resources to address complex global challenges. The department maintains strong links with public, private, and non-profit sectors, ensuring that research remains grounded in practical application and institutional intervention.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 32155 per semester
National fee: USD 32155 per semester
Local fee: USD 32155 per semester

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum requires the completion of at least 66 subject units and a significant original thesis. Modules may include:

Spatial Analysis
Quantitative Reasoning
Critical Qualitative Methods
Urban Design
Planning Economics
Microeconomics
Environmental Policy and Planning
Real Estate Development
Urban Data Science

Careers with Urban Studies and Planning

Graduates of the department typically secure influential roles within public agencies, international institutions, and private consulting firms. The programme prepares individuals for leadership positions in economic development, environmental planning, and city design. Alumni are frequently employed in roles that involve policy analysis, institutional management, and the implementation of sustainable urban strategies across the United States and internationally.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Spatial Analysis
Quantitative Reasoning
Urban Design
Gateway
Planning Economics
Microeconomics
Critical Qualitative Methods

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-08 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-15 00:00:00

Language

English

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Credits

30 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Cambridge, United States

Disciplines

Urban Planning View 211 other Masters in Urban Planning in United States

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

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Other requirements

General requirements

Online application
Statement of objectives
Three letters of recommendation
Transcripts
English proficiency exam scores
CV or Resume

Optional:

Design portfolio
Writing sample

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

64310 USD / year

≈ 64310 USD / year
Out-of-State

64310 USD / year

≈ 64310 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

64310 USD / year

≈ 64310 USD / year

Living costs

Cambridge

United States

1814 - 3756 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Financing

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Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Urban Studies and Planning.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

On this page

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Cambridge

Financing

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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