University of Cincinnati Launching Online Master of City Planning Program

The University of Cincinnati provides high-quality, online academic programs from a premier research and higher learning institution located in the heart of Cincinnati, Ohio. Led by nationally recognized faculty, our online programs combine innovation with freedom of intellectual inquiry to create an engaging environment tailored toward the needs of online learners.

Launching in Spring 2026, UC's renowned College of Design, Architecture, Art, and Planning (DAAP) now offers a fully online Master of City Planning program in addition to its accredited and highly ranked on-campus Master of Community Planning. This 30-credit-hour program is built for working professionals seeking a flexible online program that will enable them to upskill and advance their careers without stepping away from them. If you're a mid-career professional looking to make a more significant impact in urban planning, the online MCP is built for you.

Laying the Foundation for Effective Urban Planning

The foundation courses introduce students to the essential principles and tools that support the planning profession. In Planning in Urban Communities, learners explore planning theory, history, ethics, and the role of institutions in shaping cities. Structure & Dynamics of Human Settlements examines the social, economic, political, and environmental systems that influence how communities develop and function. Learners also gain critical technical skills through Introduction to GIS, where they learn spatial analysis, data management, and geographic modeling.

Deepening Expertise Across Essential Planning Disciplines

The core curriculum builds expertise with targeted coursework designed for real-world application. Foundations in Economics provides an understanding of micro- and macroeconomic concepts relevant to planning decisions. Methods of Planning Systems Analysis introduces quantitative and qualitative planning methods, including demographic and economic analysis. Graphics & Communication for Planners focuses on visual storytelling and graphic communication tools essential for conveying planning ideas to an array of audiences. Students also explore multimodal transportation systems through Transportation Planning and choose an elective that allows them to tailor the program to their interests.

Applying Knowledge Through a Real-World Planning Project

The program culminates in the Master's Project, a 7-credit applied capstone where students synthesize what they've learned to address a practical planning problem. Working independently or within a community-focused context, students produce a professional-level project that demonstrates their analytical, strategic, and communication skills, providing an opportunity to showcase their expertise and prepare for advancement in the field.

Preparing Planners to Meet Today's Challenges

The online Master of City Planning empowers working professionals to advance their careers without stepping away from their current obligations. Graduates will emerge ready to lead projects, shape policy, and design solutions that make cities more livable and sustainable. For anyone committed to making a tangible difference, this degree offers both the training and the platform to create a real, lasting impact.

Learn more about UC's online Master of City Planning

About the content Author and Sponsor: The University of Cincinnati Online

The University of Cincinnati Online is dedicated to providing a world-class educational experience that provides flexibility for busy professionals, lifelong learners, and students from around the world. UC Online provides Enrollment Services Advisors and Student Success Coordinators who understand the demands of a busy life. They will guide you through each step of the admissions process, assist you with course selection, answer your questions, and keep you on track toward degree completion.