MPL Curriculum
The Master of Planning program requires 48 units of graduate coursework. All students pursuing the MPL degree will complete core courses that present basic theories, techniques and methods. Many students specialize in a wide array of specific topic areas, but the curriculum is structured to support five broad concentrations:
- Economic Development
- Preservation and Design of the Built Environment
- Social and Community Planning
- Sustainable Land Use Planning
- Transportation and Infrastructure Planning
The Master of Planning program normally requires two academic years of full-time study. Courses are also scheduled to allow completion of the program on a part-time basis. At least 36 units of graduate-level study must be done in residence at USC. Students seeking the degree on a part-time basis must take at least one course each semester, and one semester must be in full-time residence.

