PhD in City and Regional Planning in Charlotte United States | University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

The Carolina Planning PhD program educates students in urban and regional social theory along with research methodologies. This selective program offers personalized attention, typically admitting three to six new students annually while maintaining 20-25 doctoral candidates at any time.
Our department ranks among the nation's largest and most diverse planning programs, attracting students from across the U.S. and globally. PhD candidates stand out through their advanced expertise in planning theory, research methodology, and mixed-methods approaches, typically building on prior graduate education (such as a Master's degree) and professional experience in planning or related disciplines.
Our alumni hold influential positions worldwide, shaping urban and regional policy, conducting groundbreaking research, and leading initiatives both domestically and internationally.
Approximately 20% pursue careers outside the U.S. or work on global projects. Graduates include academic leaders, professional organization executives, and widely published researchers.