Master of Urban Affairs

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The Master of Urban Affairs (MUA) degree program is designed for students seeking a broad background in urban public policy, community development and service delivery, and the administration of public and private agencies in urban settings. Graduates are prepared for careers in which they assemble and analyze information for policy-making, identify community needs and resources, and administer effective service delivery programs. These tasks are common to public, private, and voluntary organizations in a wide variety of urban functions, such as housing, health services, economic development, transportation, and environment control. Many students obtain the Master of Urban Affairs degree in preparation for further study.

The course of study emphasizes analytical skills and a deep understanding of urban issues. It is flexible and well adapted to students who (1) seek career entry or advancement in urban public agencies, private service organizations, or community programs; (2) desire advanced background in urban affairs for personal, community, or political activity; or (3) are in a related field such as real estate, law, finance, architecture, urban design, or social services. Many students obtain the MUA degree in preparation for further study.

The program accommodates students on both a part- and a full-time basis. The 36 credits required may be earned in one year of full-time study and must be earned within a maximum of five years.

Students who complete the master’s degree in Urban Affairs will be able to demonstrate:

1. Mastery of knowledge in the history and theory of urban and regional development, the structure and functions of cities and urban systems, and local and national policy-making processes.
2. Proficiency in quantitative and qualitative research skills and their application to theory-building, data-gathering and analysis, and policy-making processes.
3. Proficiency of communication skills for public (community) and policy settings.
4. Awareness of the political, social, and ethical issues inherent in policy work and the planning practice, as related to minority or disadvantaged urban communities.

For more information visit the City Planning & Urban Affairs website.