Students in a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Urban Planning degree program acquire an advanced understanding of the human and physical environments of a variety of regions. They conduct research aimed at fostering positive social change and improving the quality of life for people in neighborhoods, cities and other metropolitan areas. The flexible nature of the Ph.D. program allows for an individualized learning experience tailored to the students own research and occupational goals.
Ph.D. in Urban Planning
Ph.D. degree programs in urban planning examine topics such as urbanization dynamics and articulation of public space as well as a wide variety of social urban theories, processes and policies. Students learn to understand the process of designing and developing urban areas from economic, environmental, political, spatial and social vantage points. At the doctorate level, students often focus on one specific area, such as planning history and theory, transportation planning, economic development or urban spatial theory. Some schools also require students to select a second area of specialization outside of urban planning and integrate that area into their unique learning experience.
Education Prerequisites
Most schools require candidates for a Ph.D. in Urban Planning to have first completed a master's degree in urban planning or a similar planning-related field. Select schools offer the option of earning a master's degree concurrently with a Ph.D.
Program Coursework
Curriculum in this program is highly customizable, with very few required courses and most classes selected by the student. Completion of the degree program generally takes four years, with the first two dedicated towards coursework and directed study and the last two focusing on dissertation proposal, research and defense. Some courses that a student may encounter include:
Popular Careers
Although many positions in the field of urban and regional planning require only a master's degree, earning a Ph.D. can increase one's chances of occupational advancement. Ph.D. graduates tend to work in strongly research-oriented positions and often pursue academic or scholastic career paths. Some careers that Ph.D. graduates hold include:
Continuing Education
Urban planners have the option of receiving certification from the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP). To qualify for AICP certification, one must be a member of the American Planners Association, hold a professional planning job and meet requirements for education and experience. To maintain certification status, planners engage in professional development activities such as courses and seminars.
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