M.R.P. Core Course Curriculum
The M.R.P. core curriculum provides each student with a foundation in planning and spatial theory, economics, and the tools of planning analysis — both qualitative and quantitative. The core devotes particular consideration to voice, participation, and politics. It includes subjects in law and international institutions, as well as workshops in that test theory in practice.
M.R.P. students participate in intensive collaborative workshops; summer internships with government agencies, research institutions, and nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) in the U.S. and abroad; and internships in Europe with international institutions affiliated with the Cornell in Rome program.
Students will have access to the whole of Cornell University. The College of Architecture, Art, and Planning and departments throughout the university provide a rich array of electives. Students can further tailor their course of study through the second-year independent exit project. Faculty mentoring, through one-on-one advising and instruction, enhances the experience.
"I loved every minute. The professors were terrific and very available. If I had a particular interest, they were willing to do a seminar about it." Maile Takahashi, M.R.P. '00
Independent Exit Project
Each M.R.P. student is required to complete an independent exit project by preparing one of the following:
- A research paper
- A professional report
- A master's thesis
Three Concentrations
Beyond the core, the department recommends that M.R.P. students concentrate in a particular area of planning. Concentrations can provide students with a substantial base of knowledge about a distinct topic in planning, help make them more attractive to potential employers, and prepare them for professional work. The three concentrations described below reflect the department's strengths, and all three constitute major and vital areas in the field of planning.
If a student does not wish to take a concentration in one of these areas he or she design an individual concentration in planning in consultation with a faculty advisor.
Joint Degrees with Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Law, and Real Estate
For students with a specific interest in design, joint M.R.P. degree programs are offered with architecture (M.Arch.), landscape architecture (M.L.A.), and real estate (M.P.S./R.E.). To pursue law and planning, students may enroll in a joint degree with the Cornell Law School (J.D.).
