Master of City Planning in Urban Design in Berkeley United States | University of California, Berkeley

University of California, Berkeley | Berkeley United States
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Qualification
Masters Degree
Languages
English
Delivery Mode
On-Campus
Tuition (2025)
USD 27,366
Attendance
Full-time
Full-time Duration
24 months

Urban designers focus on the visual and sensory qualities of spaces, their interaction with natural systems, and their functionality for inhabitants. The Urban Design specialization equips M.C.P. students with the skills to craft urban structures while considering social, ecological, and economic factors. Design serves as the driving force: professionals mold both constructed and natural settings through direct project proposals and indirect influence on policies guiding urban development. Their work spans various scales, from intimate public areas and streets to broader neighborhood plans, citywide systems, and regional approaches. A primary focus lies on urban public spaces, prioritizing aspects like vibrancy, character, community-building, fairness, sustainability, the interplay between public and private domains, and enhancing daily experiences. The program also examines urban theories, integrating perspectives from city planning, architecture, landscape design, and social sciences to both study and shape metropolitan environments. Studio work forms the core of this concentration, where students—collaboratively and independently—investigate urban planning concepts and refine their ability to convey ideas visually and verbally. By studying historical and contemporary examples from diverse locations, they imagine future urban possibilities. Alumni pursue careers in government agencies at all levels, advocacy groups, and private-sector firms specializing in architecture, landscape design, urban planning, and community development, serving both public and private clients.


Destination of Study

Subjects of Study

Language Requirements

English
IELTS 7.0

Qualification Requirements

Minimum requirements for admission include:
A 3.0 GPA for the last two years of undergraduate study,
Bachelor's degree from an accredited university,
Official evidence of English language Proficiency (For applicants from countries in which the official language is not English) Other elements of your application that weigh heavy in the review process include your statemens (Statement of Purpose, Personal History Statment), letters of recommendation and work experience. Be sure to submit recommendations from individuals who know you well and can speak for the quality of your work. One or two recommendations should be submitted from people who are in position to appraise your depth of character and commitment, work effectiveness, ability to work with people and leadership potential on the job or in community activities. At least one should come from someone who can evaluate your performance in academic settings.
The two statements, as a unit, should clearly present why you are interested in a planning career, your goals, and what you hope to achieve in a Berkeley professional program. A bachelor's degree or recognized equivalent from an accredited institution,
A grade point average of B or better (3.0),
If the applicant comes from a country or political entity (e.g., Quebec) where English is not the official language, adequate proficiency in English to do graduate work, as evidenced by a TOEFL score of at least 90 on the iBT test, 570 on the paper-and-pencil test, or an IELTS Band score of at least 7 on a 9-point scale (note that individual programs may set higher levels for any of these), and
Sufficient undergraduate training to do graduate work in the given field. Transcripts: Applicants may upload unofficial transcripts with your application for the departmental initial review. If the applicant is admitted, then official transcripts of all college-level work will be required. Letters of recommendation: Applicants may request online letters of recommendation through the online application system.

Tuition USD 27,366

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