City and Regional Planning- Public and Private Development
The Public and Private Development specialization within the City and Regional Planning master’s program is designed to equip students with a strong foundation in the planning, financing, and implementation of urban development projects across both the public and private sectors. Over two years, students gain insight into how governmental agencies, real estate developers, and community organizations work together to shape the built environment. The curriculum emphasizes land use regulation, economic development, real estate markets, and public-private partnerships that drive urban transformation.
This program fosters a comprehensive understanding of the economic, legal, and social dimensions of development. Students explore how planning strategies can promote sustainable growth, social equity, and economic resilience. With the support of experienced faculty and real-world case studies, they develop the ability to critically assess the impact of urban policies and development decisions on communities, infrastructure, and the environment. Practical training in project evaluation and financial feasibility also prepares graduates to lead or advise large-scale urban initiatives.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: City and Regional Planning- Public and Private Development
- Degree Type: S. Master
- Duration: 2 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 11 January 2026
- Location: University of Pennsylvania, United States
- Field of Study: Urban Planning
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1
- Foundations of City and Regional Planning
- Urban Economics and Real Estate Markets
- Planning Law and Public Policy
- GIS and Spatial Analysis
Semester 2
- Public-Private Partnerships in Urban Development
- Community Engagement and Equity Planning
- Land Use and Zoning Regulation
- Studio: Urban Redevelopment Strategies
Semester 3
- Affordable Housing Development
- Infrastructure Finance and Project Delivery
- Urban Design and Development Review
- Research Methods in Urban Planning
Semester 4
- Capstone Development Project
- Development Impact Analysis
- Internship or Applied Practicum
- Master's Thesis
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are highly sought after in municipal planning departments, private development firms, nonprofit housing agencies, infrastructure consultancy companies, and regional economic development organizations. They often pursue careers as urban planners, development managers, real estate analysts, zoning specialists, and project coordinators. With their interdisciplinary training, they are well-equipped to guide complex development projects from concept to execution, ensuring compliance with planning regulations while aligning with community and investor goals. As cities increasingly rely on coordinated efforts between public and private entities to meet growth and housing demands, professionals from this field play a central role in delivering balanced, equitable, and economically viable urban solutions.
Why Choose This Program
This program uniquely bridges the gap between public planning objectives and private development realities, providing students with the tools and insights to succeed in both sectors. The curriculum blends policy analysis, financial modeling, legal understanding, and design thinking to reflect the dynamic nature of urban development. Faculty with backgrounds in real estate, law, public service, and planning offer students real-world perspectives and mentorship. The program’s project-based learning model, including studios and applied research, ensures students graduate with hands-on experience and a competitive skill set. For those aiming to shape the future of cities through strategic development that balances public interest with economic viability, this specialization offers a powerful platform for impact and career advancement.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 215 898 5000
Email: admissions@upenn.edu
Address: University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
