Master of Regional Planning - Student Designed in Boston United States | University of Massachusetts Amherst

The regional planning graduate programs enable students to combine examinations of physical, environmental, social, cultural, economic, and political planning aspects across various scales - from urban centers to rural communities. The professionally-focused MRP degree equips students for careers advancing sustainable development, balancing ecological, economic, and equitable considerations through collaborative planning approaches. This accredited status offers MRP graduates significant advantages, including faster qualification for AICP certification, enhanced earning potential, and greater employment opportunities. Our accreditation remains valid until December 2026. The Regional Planning Program aims to foster innovative, systematic solutions for tackling the physical, economic, and social challenges facing communities of all sizes.

This program blends theoretical, historical, social, political, and technical planning concepts with hands-on learning through studio work and regional community projects, including potential international engagements. We address both the academic and practical dimensions of regional planning. Our graduates hold positions across government agencies, consulting firms, real estate development companies, private sector organizations, and academic institutions. Since the 1960s, they've pioneered social transformation through urban renewal, environmental conservation, advocacy planning, heritage preservation, growth regulation, economic initiatives, and GIS applications.

The master's program provides comprehensive training in regional planning, covering foundational theories, urban design principles, urbanization patterns, planning methodologies, policy analysis, social planning strategies, and cutting-edge planning technologies and techniques.