UNIVERSITY OF CALGARY · CANADA
Master of Planning (MPLAN)
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- Accredited by the Canadian Institute of Planners (CIP)Accreditation
- Studio-based learning with real-world projectsPractical Experience
- Emphasis on design and graphic skillsKey Focus
- Prepares for roles like City Planner, Urban Designer, and GIS SpecialistCareer Outcomes
- Two years full-time studyProgram Duration
This two-year Master of Planning program is accredited by the Canadian Institute of Planners, preparing you with practical knowledge to enhance the sustainability, vibrancy, and equity of cities and communities. The program emphasizes form-based planning, integrating design and graphic skills into the planning process through studio work and technical courses. You will engage with real-world problems and clients in a studio-based environment. Upon completion, graduates are well-prepared for various roles in urban planning and development.
Curriculum
The program includes fifteen core courses, five of which are planning studio courses, and three elective courses. Students will complete core courses in each term, covering topics such as site planning, history and theory, and analytic methods. Additional courses can explore areas like computer modelling, geographic information systems (GIS), urban design, regional planning, and land use.
- Year 1
- Planning Studio
- Site Planning
- History and Theory of Planning
- Analytic Methods
- Year 2
- Planning Studio
- Elective Courses
Careers
Graduates are prepared for a range of careers in planning and related fields, contributing to the development and management of communities. The program's accreditation also facilitates professional recognition.
- City planner
- Real estate development
- School boards
- Non-profit organizations
- Urban designer
- Parks planner
- Environmental planner
- GIS specialist
- Regional planner
- Housing specialist
- Community planner
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the Master of Planning program?
- You need a four-year baccalaureate degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 point system over your last two years of undergraduate study. Applicants whose primary language is not English must also demonstrate English language proficiency as outlined in the Academic Calendar.
- How long does the Master of Planning program take to complete?
- The Master of Planning program is designed as a two-year full-time study.
- What is the language of instruction for this program?
- The language of instruction for the Master of Planning program is English. International students must demonstrate English language proficiency as per the Academic Calendar.
- How do I apply for the Master of Planning program?
- You must submit an online application and then upload a digital application package containing a cover letter, digital portfolio, resume/CV, and statement of interest as a single PDF. Three reference letters, with at least two being academic, must also be arranged.
- When is the application deadline?
- The application deadline for the September intake is January 31.
- What are the potential career paths after completing the Master of Planning?
- Graduates can pursue roles such as city planner, urban designer, GIS specialist, real estate development, environmental planner, and community planner, contributing to community development and management.
Entry requirements
Four-year baccalaureate degreeMinimum of 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 point system, over the last two years of undergraduate study (minimum 20 courses or 60 units).
English Language ProficiencyRefer to the Academic Calendar for accepted criteria.
Applicants whose primary language is not English must demonstrate English language proficiency according to criteria outlined in the Academic Calendar.
Fees
Tuition (international)Information on tuition fees can be found in the Graduate Calendar.
Tuition (home)Information on tuition fees can be found in the Graduate Calendar.
LivingInformation on estimated living costs is available in the Graduate Calendar.
Refer to the Graduate Calendar for detailed information on fees, fee regulations, awards, and financial assistance.
How to apply
1. Submit Online ApplicationComplete the online application form.
2. Prepare Digital Application PackageAssemble a single .PDF document including a cover letter (with your full name), a digital portfolio, your resume/CV, and a statement of interest. Include a table of contents for clarity.
3. Upload Application PackageUpload the compiled .PDF package to the Student Centre after submitting your online application.
4. Arrange Reference LettersEnsure three reference letters are submitted, with at least two being academic.
Accreditation
The course-based Master of Planning degree is accredited by the Professional Standards Board (PSB), and fulfills the accreditation requirements of the Canadian Institute of Planners (CIP) and the Alberta Professional Planners Institute (APPI).
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the Master of Planning program?
+
You need a four-year baccalaureate degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 point system over your last two years of undergraduate study. Applicants whose primary language is not English must also demonstrate English language proficiency as outlined in the Academic Calendar.
How long does the Master of Planning program take to complete?
+
The Master of Planning program is designed as a two-year full-time study.
What is the language of instruction for this program?
+
The language of instruction for the Master of Planning program is English. International students must demonstrate English language proficiency as per the Academic Calendar.
How do I apply for the Master of Planning program?
+
You must submit an online application and then upload a digital application package containing a cover letter, digital portfolio, resume/CV, and statement of interest as a single PDF. Three reference letters, with at least two being academic, must also be arranged.
When is the application deadline?
+
The application deadline for the September intake is January 31.
What are the potential career paths after completing the Master of Planning?
+
Graduates can pursue roles such as city planner, urban designer, GIS specialist, real estate development, environmental planner, and community planner, contributing to community development and management.