The Ph.D. in Urban Planning and Development (UPD) prepares students to be academics and scholars who research contemporary urban problems, and contribute new ideas and innovative solutions to problems related to land use, transportation, housing and real estate, economic development, the environment, sustainability, and the design of livable communities.
Through advanced theoretical core courses in critical thinking, planning theory, urban development, and research methodology, UPD students gain a strong foundation from which to launch their scholarly career and develop an area of expertise.
The UPD program emphasizes student engagement and faculty mentoring, while providing numerous interdisciplinary research opportunities. Graduates of the UPD program secure tenure-track and research positions at leading research universities and institutes throughout the U.S. and the world.
Working closely with faculty mentors, UPD students focus on and develop substantive expertise in core areas that leverage the Price School’s renowned research strengths in:
Incoming Ph.D. students are fully supported for four years of fellowship funding that supports tuition, a stipend for fall and spring semesters, and year-round health and dental insurance.
Students beyond their fourth year of study obtain support through teaching and/or research assistantships or funding from USC or other outside sources. Learn more about funding »
