Department of Urban Planning and Policy

Welcome to Urban Planning and Policy

In one of the world's great cities, Urban Planning & Policy (UPP) at UIC has led the way in preparing students for careers for over 40 years. Grounded in social equity and sustainability, we teach students to use innovative concepts and technology to address urban issues.

UIC planning students take all classes in Chicago, study in Chicago, and live and breathe in Chicago. Where better to learn the art of planning great cities than in the city of Daniel Burnham?

CUPPA 40th Anniversary Video

Planetizen Urban Planning Program Rankings

The Planetizen Guide to Graduate Urban Planning Programs recognizes the Department of Urban Planning and Policy as being ranked among the top 20 urban planning programs in the United States.

#17 Overall Graduate Urban Planning Program
#16 According to Urban Planning Educators
#11 Top Public Programs
#8 Top Big City Programs
#3 in the Midwest
#7 Among programs that offer part-time study
#3 Most Alumni

Undergraduate Programs

Graduate Programs

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UIC Master of Urban Planning and Policy

UIC’s Master of Urban Planning and Policy program is the only accredited planning program in the Chicagoland region by the Planning Accreditation Board (PAB). According to the PAB, accreditation is a system for recognizing educational institutions for performance, integrity and quality. Accreditation ensures high quality education for future urban planners.

We are also proud members of the Association of Collegiate Schools of Planning (ACSP), Association of European Schools of Planning (AESOP) and the American Planning Association (APA).