Admission Information

Because planning integrates knowledge of many disciplines, a student may enter the program with an undergraduate degree in any discipline. The student brings his/her previous knowledge to a curriculum, which provides complementary scientific knowledge, analytic, design, and problem formulations skills and an understanding of the legal, political, economic and physical context within which planning occurs. Application requirements include:

Note Admission to the School of Planning is contingent upon receipt of the final official transcript stating the date the degree was conferred.

  • 3 reference letters from persons (including faculty) familiar with your potential to complete professional graduate study

Note At least one should be an academic recommendation. All letters should be on the referee's letterhead.

  • official Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores
  • a professional resume

Note A portfolio or examples of design work are optional. If submitted, please provide a self-addressed stamped envelope for their return.

  • applicants from outside the U.S. are required to have test scores of 560 or higher on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)

Except for the official University of Cincinnati online application and fee which must be completed, all other materials should be sent to the School of Planning at the address below:

School of Planning
College of Design, Architecture, Art, and Planning
6210 DAAP
University of Cincinnati
PO Box 210016-0016
Cincinnati, OH 45221-0016

Application Deadline

We strongly suggest that application materials be received prior to February 1 to assure first consideration for a financial assistance award from the School of Planning. It is further suggested that applications be submitted by March 1 of each year to begin studies the following September.