Urban Planning and Environmental Sustainability

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At a Glance

Degree Type: Master of Arts

Location: Bellingham

Total Credits: 45

Curriculum: Urban Planning and Environmental Sustainability, MA

Department Website

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Application Deadline

TA/RA deadline for fall is Feb 1. Committee may review materials up until June 1 to fill the cohort.

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Program Information

The MA degree in Urban Planning and Environmental Sustainability provides a rigorous and tailored preparation for careers in a wide range of fields, such as city and regional planning; community development and advocacy; environmental conservation and management; recreation, natural resource, and environmental planning; housing; indigenous and tribal planning; international development; and other related fields. Graduates of the program are also well-prepared for continued academic pursuits in doctoral or law programs in related areas of study, such as planning, sustainability studies and sciences, public policy, law, and environmental policy and management. 

Our MA degree is distinguished for its emphasis on action research, ethical community engagement, and a strong social and environmental justice focus. It also offers unique opportunities for joining faculty research and applied projects that address real-world problems.

Our MA degree emphasizes transformative action research, ethical community engagement, social justice, and environmental sustainability. The program draws on and integrates knowledge and practices from urban and regional planning, policymaking, and environmental sustainability and management. The program offers an accelerated 1-year course sequence for students that have a strong background in urban planning.

Student can be admitted to this program for fall quarter only.

Application Requirements

  • Applicant must have a bachelor’s degree in Urban Planning, Public Policy, Environmental Policy, Environmental Studies, Environmental Science, Geography, Political Science, Sociology, Architecture, Natural Resource Management, or related field.
  • All applicants must complete the Graduate School's ApplyWeb application and pay the $100 application fee.
  • Within the application you will be prompted to upload an unofficial transcript from each institution attended. If admitted, you will be asked to provide official transcripts.
  • Additional application materials are specified below. Applications will not be forwarded to the department for review until all required materials have been received by the Graduate School.
  • International Applicants: Please review the requirements for information regarding Degree Equivalency, English Language Proficiency and student VISA requirements.

Additional Application Requirements

  • Statement of Purpose: 
    • Please include a one- to two-page statement of purpose addressing the following questions:
      • Why do you wish to pursue a graduate degree in Urban Planning and Environmental Sustainability at the College of the Environment?
      • Please describe your research or project interests. How do your previous academic and/or professional experiences prepare you for continued research in this area?
      • What coursework are you interested in taking towards your specialization?
      • What is your research topic idea (thesis or project) and who are your potential faculty advisors?
  • Three (3) Letters of Reference
  • We strongly recommend meeting or corresponding with potential faculty advisors to ascertain their availability, matching interests, and research opportunities. 
  • We strongly recommend meeting or corresponding with the Graduate Program Coordinator prior to submitting your application to inquire about program updates, financial support opportunities, and the application process.
  • GRE is not required to apply, but if submitted, it will be considered as part of a whole-person review.