So I'm planning on applying to master's programs in next year's cycle, but I wanted to ask anyone with experience about a sensible process to narrow down my options to a manageable amount, perhaps 5 to 7. I'd like any pointers on factors that I may be missing out on in terms of choosing where to apply. I am a resident of Washington State from Seattle and want to specialize in transportation planning and perhaps environmental health/justice as well. Here are my questions and preliminary results:
1) What program is the most affordable? (esp. likelihood of graduate funding or aid)
2) What program is located in a city that I'd like living in , and what region do I see myself working in after? (Unsurprisingly, I'd like to be in more "urbanist" areas)
3) Is the program well-known for my specific urban planning interest?
4) Are there generally positive job outcomes?
5) Are there any faculty that are well-known in my field of interest?
6) How realistic are my chances of admission and aid?
I've came up with a list of programs I'd like to consider and would appreciate any specific feedback. For context, PSU and CU Denver offer in-state tuition via the WRGP. I imagine I should adjust to have more safe options, but I would hope I can get admitted to any of these. Is my process for narrowing down options sensible? (BOLD = Priority, Italics = Reach, contingent on aid)
University of Washington
Portland State University
Rutgers University
University of Illinois at Chicago
CUNY Hunter College
Tufts University
University of Colorado Denver
(Maybe one more safe option?)
I understand nobody here can give a precise read on my chances, but if anyone would be willing to offer insights into how competitive I might be, I would appreciate it. Here's a summary of what my "resumé" will look like come next cycle.
University of Washington, 2027: BA in Geography and Public Policy (Current GPA: 3.98)
I know MUPs aren't the most competitive grad school programs, even the well-regarded ones, but I'm afraid going straight from undergrad and lacking full-time experience will be a major detriment, especially if I want to qualify for aid. Does anyone have any advice they'd give for strengthening my resumé? Would having undergrad research experience be a significant factor, even for non-PHDs? (I regret not applying for some undergrad opportunities, as I did not see them as useful at the time). I know this is a very long post, but any advice or help would be so very much appreciated!
1) What program is the most affordable? (esp. likelihood of graduate funding or aid)
2) What program is located in a city that I'd like living in , and what region do I see myself working in after? (Unsurprisingly, I'd like to be in more "urbanist" areas)
3) Is the program well-known for my specific urban planning interest?
4) Are there generally positive job outcomes?
5) Are there any faculty that are well-known in my field of interest?
6) How realistic are my chances of admission and aid?
I've came up with a list of programs I'd like to consider and would appreciate any specific feedback. For context, PSU and CU Denver offer in-state tuition via the WRGP. I imagine I should adjust to have more safe options, but I would hope I can get admitted to any of these. Is my process for narrowing down options sensible? (BOLD = Priority, Italics = Reach, contingent on aid)
University of Washington
Portland State University
Rutgers University
University of Illinois at Chicago
CUNY Hunter College
Tufts University
University of Colorado Denver
(Maybe one more safe option?)
I understand nobody here can give a precise read on my chances, but if anyone would be willing to offer insights into how competitive I might be, I would appreciate it. Here's a summary of what my "resumé" will look like come next cycle.
University of Washington, 2027: BA in Geography and Public Policy (Current GPA: 3.98)
- Officer of UW's ITE chapter, group member of winning transportation planning/design competitions and organizer of community events
- Summer 2025: Community outreach and engagement-focused internship with county public transit agency
- AY 2025-26: Public affairs and media-focused internship with major city Dept of Transportation
- Summer 2026: Transportation planning internship with reputable private consulting firm (Kittelson)
- AY 2026-27: Hopefully a relevant internship throughout the year
I know MUPs aren't the most competitive grad school programs, even the well-regarded ones, but I'm afraid going straight from undergrad and lacking full-time experience will be a major detriment, especially if I want to qualify for aid. Does anyone have any advice they'd give for strengthening my resumé? Would having undergrad research experience be a significant factor, even for non-PHDs? (I regret not applying for some undergrad opportunities, as I did not see them as useful at the time). I know this is a very long post, but any advice or help would be so very much appreciated!