The 39-credit PhD in Urban and Regional Planning and Design program at the University of Maryland prepares students for university teaching and high-level research and decision-making in various sectors. The highly selective program typically requires four semesters of coursework and a minimum of two years in residence. Applicants should have a related master's degree and two semesters of graduate-level quantitative research methods. The program benefits from its connection to the National Center for Smart Growth Research and Education and other nationally recognized programs, providing a rich interdisciplinary environment.
Fields of Specialization
Students are expected to develop two fields of specialization, a major and a minor field. The major field can be considered a specific academic field of expertise while the minor field should be complementary and/or a specific facet of the chosen major. The following major fields are based on the University of Maryland faculty's particular strengths. However, other fields can be developed with the guidance and approval of the faculty mentor. Emeritus Professors will not serve as the main academic advisors.
- Land Use Planning
- Urban Spatial Structure
- Economic Development
- Environmental Planning
- International Planning
- Urban Design
- Urban Community Social Development
- Transportation Planning and Policy
- Housing Policy
- Architectural History
Curriculum
Comprehensive Exams Policy
Doctoral students take written comprehensive exams after coursework to demonstrate mastery in planning and design theory, major and minor fields. The committee, including at least four faculty members (two from the School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation), is chosen by the student with advisor approval. Exams are a three-day take-home format with questions prepared by committee members. Results are given within two weeks as pass, rewrite, or fail per question. Passing admits students to candidacy.
Advancement to Candidacy
Students must complete and pass their comprehensive exam before they advance to candidacy and begin to take URSP899 dissertation research courses. Fill out the application for advancement to candidacy.
Proposal
The dissertation proposal is an internal requirement. This oral presentation outlines the research the student plans to undertake as part of their dissertation research. Students should aim to develop a committee which meets the requirements of the final dissertation defense committee outlined by The Graduate School.
The written component of the oral proposal is the prospectus. The prospectus should be about 20 pages in length, with a clear hypotheses and research methodology. Students are expected to propose research which will lead to significant, original, and relevant contributions to the field.
Dissertation
The dissertation must demonstrate the ability to do independent research on an original topic approved by the student’s committee. Along with the traditional dissertation model of hypothesis, literature review, model, methodology, conclusions, and policy implications, the School of Architecture, Planning, and Preservation permits a three-essay dissertation option.
COURSES
To view current course offerings visit Testudo; for more detailed information on courses, please visit University of Maryland's Graduate Course Catalog.