The Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy, in cooperation with the School of Arts and Sciences and the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, offers a joint program that enables students to earn the bachelor of arts or science (B.A. or B.S.) and master of city and regional planning (M.C.R.P.) degrees in five years of full-time enrollment rather than the normal six. This (3-1-1) five-year program gives exemplary students the opportunity to complete their liberal arts education while preparing for a career in urban planning and policy development.
During the first three years of their undergraduate education, students will complete most of their major and general studies requirements. They may apply for admission to the joint program in February of their junior year. Admitted students will be allowed to take up to 15 graduate credits in the urban planning and policy development program over the course of their senior year of undergraduate study. The graduate credits will be applied toward both degrees. Upon completion of the B.A. or B.S. degree, students will automatically matriculate into the graduate program with advanced standing.
In the summer after graduation, students must participate in an internship experience for credit at a public agency, nonprofit organization, or private firm working on planning issues. Students receive three graduate credits for the internship.During their fifth year, students will complete their graduate studies and, upon fulfilling all requirements, receive the M.C.R.P. degree.
Advantages of the Five-Year Program
During their senior year, students receive the benefit of undergraduate tuition rates while taking graduate courses, thus reducing the cost of the two degrees. Graduates with M.C.R.P. degrees work in important and varied positions in the field of urban planning including environmental, community, housing, transportation and economic areas. Graduates work in the private sector, government, and non-profit organizations.
Admission
The joint program is competitive and highly selective. Successful applicants for admission will have a GPA of 3.5 or more, exceptional GRE scores, a dedication to public service, and outstanding recommendations.Interested students who fulfill the above qualifications should contact the Office of Student and Academic Services to discuss the program and come in for an interview and to discuss the application process.
The application requires transcripts, three letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, GRE scores, and a résumé. Your personal statement for the application should indicate that you are applying to the B.A. or B.S./M.C.R.P. program.
