Sustainable Urban Development

Master of Arts

College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences

MAUrban Environment and SolutionsCommunity EngagementCreativity & InnovationIn-Person
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More than just “green”

Earn your master’s in Sustainable Urban Development and explore how cities cope with the demand for environmental sustainability while supporting economic growth and social justice. The program is framed by a simple value—that a sustainable city is one that’s sustainable for everyone. You will look at sustainability holistically, researching urban environments as an integrated system. Beyond theoretical knowledge, you’ll gain a technical foundation using industry-standard Geographic Information Systems (GIS) mapping software.

Courses are offered in the evening and the program can be completed in two years.

For international students: this is a STEM-designated program, which can qualify you to extend their post-graduation stay in the United States for Optional Practical Training (OPT). OPT provides an opportunity for international students to develop their careers while also helping meet the demand for STEM-educated professionals in the U.S. workforce.

Use Chicago as your lab

Drawing on the city’s resources, you’ll engage with expert guest speakers, delve into community-based projects and gain hands-on experience through internships. You’ll study how neighborhood growth interacts with the environmental, economic and social challenges of being a global city.

Application Deadlines

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis for Fall, Winter, and Spring quarters.​

Admission Requirements

Submit an online application, two-page personal statement, résumé and official transcripts.

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Required Courses

You’ll complete six core courses and five interdisciplinary courses.

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Study food systems with a local focus

You’ll study urban food systems with Howard Rosing, who has worked with nearly 100 DePaul students to research the community gardens of Chicago. In collaboration with Neighborspace, his work measured garden yields and examined challenges facing these spaces, including access to water, healthy soil and land tenure; this research is integrated into his coursework in food systems.

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Rachael, MA, 2017
Rachael (MA ’17)
Associate Planner/Designer, The Lakota Group
Alumni Network
The College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences offers a wide range of experiential learning, community-based internships and study abroad experiences to help prepare students for life after graduation. With a network of 8,900 fellow College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences master’s-level graduates in Chicago and beyond, you have a variety of opportunities to grow your professional and academic connections.
Scholarships & Aid
Graduate school is an investment in your future. Learn more about the financial aid and scholarship opportunities available to you. 
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Contact Information
For more information about applying, contact The Office of Graduate Admission at 
   (773) 325-7315 or LASgrad@depaul.edu.​
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We’ll send you information about the degree, admission requirements and upcoming info sessions. Let’s get started.
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