May 08, 2024  
2023-2024 University Catalog 
  
2023-2024 University Catalog

Urban & Regional Planning, M.U.R.P.


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The Master in Urban and Regional Planning program prepares graduates for a wide range of careers in the field of planning. Planners can choose to work for governmental agencies, private consulting firms or nonprofit organizations. Their chosen career can target such issues as creating safe, attractive and healthy neighborhoods; providing affordable housing; and building accessible, efficient and environmentally friendly transportation systems. Students have the opportunity to pursue internships for academic credit with selected agencies and private firms while they are in school. This “real world” experience helps students to become more competitive in the job market upon graduation.

All M.U.R.P. students will be required to show proof of having completed at least an acceptable introductory-level statistics course and an introductory-level economics course before entering the program, or will be required to complete such a course during their first semester of attendance.

Student Learning Outcomes

Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs) for MURP Urban Studies & Regional Planning

Students will demonstrate a knowledge of the history, theory, legal framework and professional practice of urban and regional planning. 

Students will demonstrate research and analytical skills relevant to planning practice. 

Students will demonstrate the professional skills required in the practice of planning including skills in the area of written, graphic and oral communication, plan creation and implementation, planning process methods, and leadership. 

Overview

  • 45 - total hours needed to complete the degree (excluding deficiencies or prerequisites)
  • 18 credit hours of required courses
  • 9 credit hours of courses in an area of specialization
  • Either MURP 6720 Practicum in Urban and Regional Planning or MURP 7000 Thesis Research (3 credit hours)
  • 15 credit hours of approved electives

Students should check with the department about any revisions approved for the program which may not be reflected in this catalog.

Program Specializations

Students have a choice of five areas of specialization within the program. Each specialization requires 9 credit hours of coursework. The five areas of specialization are Environmental/Hazards Planning, Historic Preservation, Housing and Community Economic Development, Land Use/Urban Design, and Transportation Planning. Students may complete coursework in 2 areas of specialization. Course substitutions are permissible with department approval.

Joint JD/ MURP Program

This program, unique in Louisiana, offers a combined planning degree and legal education through Loyola School of Law for those persons seeking a career in land use law and development. Applicants must apply separately and be admitted to the MURP program at UNO and to the Loyola School of Law. Normal degree requirements of each program are reduced by a common core of nine credit hours of approved elective courses that count toward both programs. The requirements for both degrees must be completed before either degree is awarded.

Financial Aid

Assistantships for nine months are available for a limited number of qualified applicants. The student will devote approximately half-time (20 hours per week) to research work. In addition, a number of assistantships are located off-campus in planning and planning related agencies.

Two-Year Plan


Semester 2 (Spring)


Semester 3 (Fall)


Semester 4 (Spring)


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