New York University

NYU Wagner Graduate School of Public Service: Master of Urban Planning

Ranked No. 1 in urban policy by U.S. News & World Report, NYU Wagner is a confident platform to pursue your graduate studies.

In an era of rapid urbanization, NYU Wagner's Master of Urban Planning equips students to navigate the complexities of modern urban life and drive transformative change. Whether harnessing the power of technology to improve urban mobility, developing new strategies to create affordable-housing or pioneering sustainable design practices, our program is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what's possible in urban-planning.

Urban Planning in the Context of Public Service

At the heart of NYU Wagner's Master of Urban Planning program is our commitment to supporting the strong public service ethos of our students. Effective urban planning begins with a deep commitment to serving the public good and improving the quality of life for all city residents. Our students graduate with a profound understanding of the various financial, political and organizational dynamics at play that shape urban landscapes around the world, as well as the skills needed to foster vibrant and inclusive communities.

The Study of Urban Planning at NYU Wagner

At NYU Wagner, our Master of Urban Planning program goes beyond theoretical learning. We're dedicated to equipping students with the tools to transform ideas into tangible action. Through a combination of rigorous coursework in spatial analysis, land use law, economics, finance and leadership as well as a one-year consulting project, our students have the opportunity to apply theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios, gaining practical skills and insights that will serve them well in their future careers as urban planners.

The program offers two specialized tracks—city and community planning or international development planning—and the option to select elective courses from across the school and university covering topical areas such as transportation, infrastructure, environmental planning, housing and economic development, urban analytics and more.

NYC as an Urban Laboratory for City Planning & Career Opportunities

NYU Wagner offers students a unique opportunity to study urban planning in one of the world's most dynamic and diverse cities. From the bustling streets of Manhattan to the diverse neighborhoods of Queens, New York is a laboratory for studying urban issues firsthand. Our students have access to a wealth of resources, including internship opportunities at leading urban planning firms, consultancies, government agencies and nonprofit organizations, as well as networking events and guest lectures featuring prominent city leaders. By the time students graduate, they will understand in a real way the interplay between the issues, the context and the solutions—and will be ready to apply their skills and insights anywhere in the world.

Many of our students also enrich their experiences by joining one of our research centers and institutes—such as the Furman Center for Real Estate and Urban Policy, the NYU Marron Institute of Urban Management and the Rudin Center for Transportation Policy and Management—which provide valuable hands-on experience in urban planning and policy research and implementation.

Additionally, the Urban Planning Student Association (UPSA) is one of NYU Wagner's most active graduate student groups. It fosters a supportive and engaging environment for students interested in developing a deeper appreciation and understanding of urban planning issues.

Leading Urban Change: NYU Wagner's Faculty and Alumni in Action

NYU Wagner's distinguished faculty and accomplished alumni are at the forefront of urban planning and policy. Our faculty members—experts in housing, transportation, climate planning, international development and migration—are engaged in cutting-edge, applied research and offer a multidisciplinary approach to urban studies, enhancing students' educational experiences through innovative research and policy work. Simultaneously, our alumni are influential in addressing global urban challenges across government, nonprofit and academic sectors, including affordable housing, transportation, and environmental sustainability. Together, they advance sustainable and equitable urban solutions, shaping vibrant communities worldwide.

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