UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN · UNITED STATES
Ph.D. in Urban and Regional Planning
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
60 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
€26k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- Over 215 Ph.D. degrees granted since inceptionGraduates
- Focus on interdisciplinary collaborationApproach
- Flexible curriculum with primary and secondary specializationsCurriculum
- Graduates in academia, government, research, and private sectorCareer Paths
- Access to faculty across multiple university schools and collegesFaculty Access
The Ph.D. in Urban and Regional Planning at the University of Michigan trains scholars for careers in higher education, research, and high-level policy positions. This interdisciplinary doctoral program offers a flexible curriculum focused on analytical methods, research design, urbanization dynamics, and social theories. Graduates contribute to universities, government agencies, non-profits, and the private sector globally. The program, established in 1968, has evolved significantly, integrating with the College of Architecture and Urban Planning and emphasizing the links between theory and practice. Students develop expertise in a primary specialization, often within areas like transportation, community development, or environmental planning, while also exploring a secondary specialization, frequently from disciplines outside of planning. This approach fosters a comprehensive understanding of urban and regional systems.
Curriculum
The Ph.D. curriculum integrates analytical methods, research design, a rigorous understanding of urbanization dynamics, and an examination of broader social theories, processes, and policies. Students develop a highly individualized course of study by drawing on faculty expertise across the university, focusing on both a primary and secondary area of specialization.
- Year 1
- Directed Study for Literature Review
- Year 2
- Directed Study for Literature Review
Careers
Graduates of the Ph.D. in Urban and Regional Planning program are prepared for leadership roles in academia, research institutions, government agencies, and the private sector, both domestically and internationally.
- University Professor
- Researcher
- Policy Analyst
- Urban Planner
- Community Development Specialist
Frequently asked questions
- What are the tuition fees for international students in the Ph.D. in Urban and Regional Planning program?
- For non-Michigan residents, the tuition is $30,685 per academic year for 9+ credit hours in the Fall and Winter terms. Spring/Summer term rates vary by credit hours.
- What is the duration of the Ph.D. in Urban and Regional Planning program?
- The program structure includes initial directed study for literature review in the first two years, with the overall duration not explicitly stated but typical for a Ph.D.
- How do I apply for the Ph.D. in Urban and Regional Planning program?
- Applications are submitted online through the Taubman College admissions portal and require a statement of purpose, CV, transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a writing sample.
- What are the admission requirements for the Ph.D. in Urban and Regional Planning program?
- Admissions are competitive, and while not strictly required, a Master's degree is common. Applicants should demonstrate strong academic background and research potential. GRE scores are not required.
- Does the program offer any scholarships or funding for doctoral students?
- The Rackham Predoctoral Fellowship is a merit-based award providing stipend and tuition support for outstanding Ph.D. students, typically awarded based on academic achievement and research potential.
- What are the career prospects for graduates of this program?
- Graduates are prepared for roles such as University Professor, Researcher, Policy Analyst, Urban Planner, and Community Development Specialist in academia, research institutions, government, and the private sector.
Entry requirements
Master's DegreeWhile not strictly required, a Master's degree is common. Students are expected to have a strong academic background and research potential.
Admissions are highly competitive. Applicants should demonstrate strong analytical and research potential. GRE scores are not required.
Fees
Tuition (international)Non-Michigan Residents: $30,685 per academic year (for 9+ credit hours). This rate applies to the Fall and Winter terms. Spring/Summer term rates vary based on credit hours.
Tuition (home)Michigan Residents: $15,204 per academic year (for 9+ credit hours). This rate applies to the Fall and Winter terms. Spring/Summer term rates vary based on credit hours.
LivingInformation on estimated living costs is not provided on the program page. However, the university typically provides funding packages that include a stipend for living expenses for doctoral students.
Tuition is assessed per credit hour or as a full-time rate for 9+ credit hours. Mandatory fees are additional. Specific costs for Spring/Summer terms are listed separately. Full cost of attendance details can be found via the Office of Financial Aid.
How to apply
1. Application SubmissionComplete the online application form and submit all required supporting documents by the application deadline.
2. Statement of PurposeArticulate your research interests, academic background, and career goals, explaining why the Ph.D. program in Urban and Regional Planning is a good fit for you.
3. Curriculum Vitae (CV) or ResumeProvide a comprehensive overview of your academic and professional experience.
4. TranscriptsSubmit official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
5. Letters of RecommendationSecure strong letters of recommendation from individuals who can attest to your academic abilities and research potential.
6. Writing SampleInclude a sample of your academic writing to demonstrate your research and analytical skills.
7. English ProficiencyInternational applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency. Accepted tests and minimum scores are listed in the 'Entry Requirements' section.
Scholarships
Rackham Predoctoral FellowshipStipend and tuition support
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition fees for international students in the Ph.D. in Urban and Regional Planning program?
+
For non-Michigan residents, the tuition is $30,685 per academic year for 9+ credit hours in the Fall and Winter terms. Spring/Summer term rates vary by credit hours.
What is the duration of the Ph.D. in Urban and Regional Planning program?
+
The program structure includes initial directed study for literature review in the first two years, with the overall duration not explicitly stated but typical for a Ph.D.
How do I apply for the Ph.D. in Urban and Regional Planning program?
+
Applications are submitted online through the Taubman College admissions portal and require a statement of purpose, CV, transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a writing sample.
What are the admission requirements for the Ph.D. in Urban and Regional Planning program?
+
Admissions are competitive, and while not strictly required, a Master's degree is common. Applicants should demonstrate strong academic background and research potential. GRE scores are not required.
Does the program offer any scholarships or funding for doctoral students?
+
The Rackham Predoctoral Fellowship is a merit-based award providing stipend and tuition support for outstanding Ph.D. students, typically awarded based on academic achievement and research potential.
What are the career prospects for graduates of this program?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles such as University Professor, Researcher, Policy Analyst, Urban Planner, and Community Development Specialist in academia, research institutions, government, and the private sector.