College of Urban & Public Affairs (CUPA)
The College of Urban & Public Affairs (CUPA) integrates urban studies, public administration, criminology, political science, economics, and global studies, fostering innovative solutions to complex issues Students engage in practical learning within the Portland metropolitan area, recognized for its civic engagement and livability, allowing them to develop and implement multidisciplinary projects focused on critical areas such as transportation, health, sustainability, and globalization.
Dr Sy Adler serves as the Interim Dean of the College of Urban and Public Affairs (CUPA) at Portland State University, where he leads the coordination among various schools and departments, including the Mark O Hatfield School of Government and the Nohad A Toulan School of Urban Studies and Planning CUPA offers a diverse range of academic programs, including four doctoral programs, numerous master’s degrees, graduate certificates, and undergraduate bachelor’s degrees, alongside several research institutes and public service units For more information, visit http://www.pdx.edu/cupa/home.
Toulan School of Urban Studies and Planning
The Nohad A Toulan School of Urban Studies and Planning aims to foster healthy and equitable communities through a comprehensive program that integrates teaching, research, and public service Faculty and students explore various dimensions of urban studies and planning, engaging with local and international issues while contributing to the innovative developments recognized in Portland and the Northwest.
The Nohad A Toulan School of Urban Studies and Planning, established by Dr Nohad A Toulan in the late 1970s, is one of the oldest urban studies programs in the United States Currently led by Dr Aaron Golub, the school boasts a diverse faculty with degrees in geography, political science, sociology, engineering, and economics, as well as interdisciplinary fields like urban planning and urban studies from prestigious institutions Faculty members actively engage in research addressing critical urban challenges, supported by funding from various public and private organizations at local, state, and national levels.
This handbook is essential for MURP students, outlining key information regarding general master's degree requirements and specific regulations for the Masters of Urban and Regional Planning Additionally, students are encouraged to consult the University Bulletin, especially the graduate studies section, for further details on University regulations not included in this handbook.
Overview
The MURP program equips students with essential skills and knowledge for a successful career in professional planning practice Graduates are prepared for employment opportunities in public agencies, nonprofit organizations, and private firms engaged in urban development This program holds full accreditation, ensuring a high standard of education and training.
Planning Accreditation Board and is structured as follows:
Total number of credits needed to graduate: 72
Core Courses
Planning Sequence
USP 540 History and Theory of Planning 4 credits
USP 541 Dynamics of Planning Practice 3
Methods Sequence
USP 531 Geographic Info Systems (GIS) for Planners 4
USP 584 Negotiation in the Public Sector 4
Analytical Sequence
USP 515 Economics: Applications in Urban Studies 4
USP 525 Design Analysis in Planning 2
USP 553 Legal Processes in Urban Planning 1
Workshops
Recommended full-time MURP course sequence
Most full-time MURP students complete the program within six academic terms, excluding summer sessions To achieve this, they need to maintain an average of 12 credits per term, unless they opt for summer courses or possess pre-admission credits.
USP 541 – Dynamics of Planning Practice (3 credits)
USP 535 – Planning Methods II (4) USP 531 – GIS for Planners (4) (or in Spring)
USP 553 – Legal Processes (1) USP 531 – GIS for Planners (4) (or in Winter)
Public Sector (4 credits) (or in
USP 558 – Workshop (3 credits) USP 559 – Internship (1 credit – see section 2.4 below about timing) [Electives]
Completing the MURP program part-time
Students pursuing a part-time schedule in the MURP program can anticipate completing their studies in around three years It is advisable for these students to consult with the MURP Program Coordinator to create a suitable study plan For optimal progression, part-time students should start with USP 540 and USP 533 in the Fall of their first year, followed by USP 541 and USP 535 in the Winter of the same year.
Planning Workshop
The Planning Workshop (USP 558) serves as the culminating course for the Master of Urban and Regional Planning (MURP) program, where students collaborate in teams of four to six to select a planning theme and a client for a related project They then develop a professional product tailored to the client's needs For examples of previous Planning Workshop projects, visit the TSUSP website at http://www.pdx.edu/usp/master-urban-and-regional-planning-workshop-projects.
A planning project must incorporate the elements of the planning process, particularly direct interaction and contact with affected citizens Further, the Toulan School expects that Planning
Workshop projects aim to tackle significant regional challenges and reduce inequities by employing strategic planning to effectively express the needs and aspirations of all communities, especially those that have been historically underrepresented in public policy discussions.
Students are required to complete all MURP core courses, excluding USP 559, before enrolling in USP 558 This course is scheduled for the Winter and Spring terms of the second year and demands a considerable time commitment, so students should plan their schedules accordingly.
Students planning to enroll in the Winter Planning Workshop are encouraged to take the Project Management course offered in the Fall term While registration for the course is not mandatory, it is beneficial as project management skills are crucial for success in the workshop Familiarity with project management concepts and practices will facilitate a smoother execution of your workshop project.
An organizational meeting for all students arranging to take the Planning Workshop will be held Fall term, and the date/location will be circulated.
Internship Requirement
Internship Waiver for Professional Experience
MURP students may request a waiver for the 400-hour internship requirement if they have substantial professional planning experience, typically three years or more To support their request, students must provide evidence such as reports or publications, highlighting their level of responsibility in preparing these materials Only work completed within five years prior to program admission is eligible Waiver requests should be submitted to the MURP Internship Coordinator and Program Coordinator If granted, students must still enroll in USP 559 Internship Seminar, attend mandatory meetings, and complete a reflective essay on their professional experience Waiver recipients are exempt from logging 400 hours for course completion but must fulfill other seminar requirements.
Elective Courses and Advising Pathways
For the MURP degree, students can select from at least 29 out of the 72 required credits as electives, enabling them to tailor their coursework to align with their academic and professional goals while gaining specialized knowledge and skills in the planning field.
MURP students have the flexibility to create their own degree plans without the need to declare a specific specialization or complete a predetermined set of courses This personalized approach allows students to collaborate closely with their faculty advisor and utilize the advising pathways established by the faculty.
The advising pathways aim to connect academic and career advising, offering students insights into various career options within specific planning sub-fields such as transportation and community development.
• Where planners, including MURP alumni, within that sub-field work;
• Foundational skills and knowledge for careers in that sub-field; and
• Recommended coursework for students interested in careers within that sub-field
As the name implies, these pathways are “advisory” in nature The only requirements are:
• All elective coursework must be taken at the graduate level (i.e., 500-level or higher) and on a letter grade basis Professional development courses are generally not acceptable as elective courses;
• At least half of a student’s non-core credits must be taken within Urban Studies and Planning (i.e., courses with a USP prefix); and
• The student’s faculty advisor must review and approve the student’s Degree Planning Form (see Section 3.2), which outlines the student’s choice of non-core coursework, on an annual basis
Advising Pathways have been developed for:
Explore various Advising Pathways available in the MURP program, including details on associated faculty members For comprehensive information, visit the MURP program website at https://www.pdx.edu/usp/murp-advising-pathways.
Projected course offerings for the current academic year are available on the Office of the Registrar’s
Course schedules may change, particularly for non-core courses, which can be rescheduled or canceled for various reasons without prior notification to students, except during the registration period Not all courses listed in the catalog are regularly offered; however, syllabi from the most recent offerings are available on the TSUSP website For inquiries about specific USP courses and their future availability, students can contact the TSUSP Office Coordinator at askusp@pdx.edu or reach out to the most recent faculty member Additionally, provisional information regarding course offerings for the next academic year will be provided to students during the winter term to assist with degree planning.
Field Area Project
Students have the option to create a research paper or project that showcases their ability to synthesize and apply knowledge in a specific planning area They can earn between three to six credits by enrolling in USP 501 Research to develop their paper or project.
MURP students doing field area projects must:
1 Find a faculty chairperson who will accept responsibility for supervision
To register for USP 501 Research, MURP students should seek assistance from the chairperson in completing the necessary by-arrangement form Students can earn up to 6 elective credits by undertaking a field area project through this course.
3 Select, with the advice of the chairperson, one additional faculty member to complete the committee
The final deliverable can extend beyond written text to include a video, accompanied by a script and notes, ensuring it meets publishable quality standards It must encompass a clear problem definition, thorough analysis, and a discussion of the results along with their significance for diverse audiences This project should involve original research or lead to the creation of an innovative idea.
Upon completion and faculty committee approval, students must submit four bound copies of their field area project to the department Additionally, copies of field area projects from graduated students can be found in the CUPA library for review.
Advising
Students have three resources available for academic and career advising, each with different roles and responsibilities:
• The Student Services Coordinator (Ms Pauline Duffy) is your “first stop” for questions pertaining to program requirements, forms and other basic programmatic questions
• The MURP Program Coordinator is available to answer more detailed questions about program requirements Prof Greg Schrock is currently the program coordinator
During the fall term of their first year, each student will be paired with a faculty advisor to explore career pathways in urban and regional planning The faculty advisor's role is to guide students in understanding the field, evaluating advising options, and selecting courses that equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge for their chosen career path.
Students must take charge of their advising by scheduling appointments and reaching out to their advisors with any questions It is essential to meet with your advisor at least twice to approve your Degree Planning Form (section 3.2), and it is highly recommended to have quarterly meetings to discuss your academic progress.
If your career interests evolve during the program, it's perfectly acceptable to switch advisors Simply inform the Student Services Coordinator if a new faculty member agrees to advise you Additionally, you are encouraged to seek guidance from multiple faculty members for academic and career advice.
Degree Planning Form
The Degree Planning Form (DPF) is essential for monitoring your progress in the MURP program, serving as a dynamic tool that outlines the path to achieving the required 72 credits for graduation while also aiding in discussions with your advisors.
Each student will obtain a personalized Degree Planning Form (DPF) in the form of a Google Sheet, labeled with their entry year (e.g., “MURP 2020 Degree Planning Form – Student Name”) This document will be accessible to the student, Student Services Coordinator, Program Coordinator, and assigned faculty advisor, ensuring collaborative support Access to the DPF is restricted to the PSU Google Account, prohibiting sharing with personal accounts or other students.
This form allows you to input your coursework by term and calculates the total credits earned across terms It includes separate sections for documenting any pre-admission or transfer credits, approved course waivers or substitutions, and a log for internship hours Additionally, there is a designated page for obtaining your advisor's signature and comments.
While it's important to regularly use and update your DPF, you must also meet with your faculty advisor twice during the program to obtain their approval.
During the Winter term of their first year, students are required to meet with their advisor to review and approve their Degree Progress Form (DPF) After obtaining the faculty advisor's signature, which can be electronic, students must submit a printed copy of the DPF to the Student Services Coordinator It's important to note that a registration hold for the Spring term may be placed on the student's account until the signed DPF is received, potentially preventing them from enrolling in classes.
To ensure a smooth transition into spring classes, it’s crucial to complete your DPF well in advance Faculty schedules become increasingly hectic as the term progresses, so avoid waiting until March to address this It’s highly recommended to schedule a meeting with your faculty advisor in January or early February for optimal planning.
During the Winter term of your second year, and in subsequent years if your study plan extends beyond two years, it is essential to meet with your advisor to review and approve your degree plan This meeting is crucial to confirm that you have met or will meet all degree requirements and that any approvals for transfer or pre-admission credits, substitutions, or waivers have been submitted to the Student Services Coordinator for entry into the Degree Audit Reporting System (DARS), which assesses your readiness for graduation.
Plans may change, and since the Degree Planning Framework (DPF) is a living document, it is normal for your coursework plans to evolve with your interests and course availability You do not need to submit a new DPF for every minor adjustment; however, if you make significant changes to your degree plans, such as altering multiple classes or shifting your professional focus, it is highly recommended that you consult with your faculty advisor to discuss these updates.
However, it is not necessary for you to submit a revised DPF.
Waivers and Substitutions
Students can request a waiver for one or more required courses due to prior academic achievements or relevant professional experience, or they may seek to substitute courses from the required curriculum It's important to note that these are distinct processes.
Waivers for courses are granted at the discretion of the faculty member, and students must provide a compelling case for their request It is recommended that students submit a written note to the faculty member detailing their waiver request, along with supporting evidence such as syllabi, assignments, and graded outcomes If a waiver is approved, students must forward the approval to the MURP Program Coordinator and Student Services Coordinator and may need to submit an updated Degree Planning Form It is important to note that students do not receive credits for waived courses; they must earn an equivalent number of credits by completing other courses.
Substitutions enable students to replace a required course with an alternative To initiate this process, students must consult with the faculty member responsible for the required course to gain their approval Once approval is secured, students are required to submit the documentation of this approval to the MURP.
Program Coordinator and Student Services Coordinator, so that the substitution can be entered into DARS Course substitutions should be clearly indicated on the Degree Planning Form.
Transfer Credits
A request for transfer credits differs from a course waiver request, as transfer credits pertain to graduate-level courses taken before enrolling in the MURP program that were not applied to another degree Up to 24 transfer credits can be requested, provided the courses received a grade of "B" or higher and were completed within seven years of the expected graduation date The acceptance of these credits into a student's program is initially assessed by the student's advisor and the MURP Program Coordinator, ensuring they align with the program's requirements.
Transfer credits can take three forms:
To ensure that post-baccalaureate credits at Portland State University (PSU) are recognized for the Master of Urban and Regional Planning (MURP) program, students must obtain advisor approval for these graduate credits taken on a non-degree basis prior to admission These credits should be documented on the Degree Planning Form under the section "Pre-Admit and Transfer" and submitted to the Student Services Coordinator for entry into the Degree Audit Reporting System (DARS) No additional forms are required for this process.
Graduate credits from accredited U.S institutions can be applied to the MURP degree if they weren't used for a degree at the original institution Approval from the TSUSP faculty member teaching similar courses is required, which may involve submitting a course syllabus and completed work Additionally, a GO- form must be completed and submitted.
21M form, available from the Graduate School website [https://www.pdx.edu/ogs/] Courses taken on a semester basis will be converted to a quarter basis (1 semester credit=1.5 quarter credits)
Students may apply up to 12 credits from graduate-level courses taken at PSU during their undergraduate studies toward the MURP degree, provided these credits were not used for their bachelor's degree and have advisor approval Once approved, it is essential for the student to ensure these credits are reflected in the DARS audit by the term following their admission to the graduate program.
Electronic & School Communications
Email Account
Students are required to use their pdx.edu email account for all university communications It is essential for students to check this email regularly, including during the summer, or to set up forwarding to another frequently checked email account.
Students not enrolled for 6 months may have their account deactivated
Google Groups
The School manages several Google groups to use for communicating with students All current MURP students are added to the following lists:
MURP Students: USP MURP School News
Students are encouraged to remain subscribed to this list to stay informed about important news and official school announcements, including on-campus job opportunities To ensure a manageable volume of emails, posting to this list is not permitted Please note that students will be removed from the list upon graduation.
Students can access off-campus job opportunities through the USP Non-Campus Jobs list, which allows them to remain on the list even after graduation To ensure continued access, it is advisable to use a personal email address instead of a pdx.edu email, as the latter will be deactivated six months post-graduation.
Students can manage their PDX Google groups by going to http://groups.pdx.edu.
Website
The TSUSP website offers extensive resources about the program, internships, and student experiences in urban planning in Portland Regularly updated by the front office staff, the website features a weekly calendar highlighting important events To stay informed about activities at TSUSP, check the calendar frequently, and if you have a student event to include, please reach out to the Office Coordinator.
Student Mailboxes
Mailboxes for students are housed in a filing cabinet in the School office Mailboxes should be checked regularly, as faculty regularly return graded papers through these mailboxes
4 O THER G RADUATE D EGREES AND C ERTIFICATES
Dual Masters Degrees
Dual-degree programs enable students to combine credits from two complementary graduate programs at PSU, provided there is a written agreement outlining shared coursework To pursue a dual degree, students must apply and gain admission to each program individually.
Presently, MURP students have two pre-approved options for dual degrees:
• MURP-Master of Science (MS) in Civil & Environmental Engineering, with a focus on transportation planning; and
• MURP-Master of Public Health (MPH), Health Promotion track
Faculty have created specialized advising materials for dual-degree students, who should collaborate closely with faculty and staff from both programs to design their study plans With careful planning, students can typically complete both degrees within three years, although they may need to take summer courses or exceed normal credit loads in some semesters Additional advising resources can be accessed through the Student Services Coordinator and the TSUSP website.
Some students choose to pursue dual degree programs simultaneously, while others begin with one program and later apply for the second If you're thinking about applying for a dual degree during your first year, it's essential to contact the MURP Program Coordinator early, as this decision can affect your course planning Additionally, you must gain admission to the second program before the term preceding the completion of your first degree's final coursework.
MURP students can pursue master’s degrees in other PSU colleges or departments without a dual-degree agreement, although this is not recommended It is important to note that any credits earned toward the 72 required MURP credits cannot be applied to the other degree.
Other TSUSP Graduate Degrees
Coursework completed at the Toulan School of Urban Studies and Planning can be credited toward another Urban Studies degree at a different level, provided it meets the current curricular requirements of the new degree and is approved by the faculty during the program approval process Additionally, Master’s program students must formally apply and undergo the admissions process to transition into the Ph.D program.
Graduate Certificates
Graduate certificates enable students to acquire and validate specialized knowledge and skills in a specific field MURP students at PSU have the opportunity to simultaneously apply credits from their MURP degree toward one of several approved graduate certificates, enhancing their educational experience.
• Collaborative Governance (administered by the Department of Public Administration);
• Geographical Information Systems (administered by Geography Department); and
• Public Interest Design (administered by School of Architecture)
Graduate certificates require varying credits, which can count toward the 29 non-core (elective) credits in the MURP program Students should collaborate with their faculty advisor to integrate the necessary certificate courses into their MURP degree plan However, completing a certificate may necessitate exceeding the 72 credits required for the MURP degree, potentially extending the duration of study This is particularly relevant for certificates with substantial coursework outside of TSUSP, as at least half of the elective credits must be completed within TSUSP.
To enroll in a certificate program, students must submit an application and complete the GO-19 form, Request for Change of Program, obtaining necessary signatures from the MURP Program Coordinator and the faculty head of the certificate program before submitting to the Graduate School Students can add graduate certificates until the term before their intended graduation While most students graduate from their certificates concurrently with the MURP program, it is possible to complete the certificate earlier if all requirements are satisfied or later if there are outstanding requirements after finishing the MURP program.
Continuous Enrollment
Students are required to maintain continuous enrollment of at least one credit per term, excluding the Summer term, unless they have an approved Leave of Absence This requirement also applies during the terms when they are completing a field paper.
If you cannot maintain continuous enrollment, you must submit a Leave of Absence (LOA) request form Leaves can be approved for one to three terms by your faculty advisor, with the possibility of a second leave period of up to three terms granted by the MURP Program Coordinator and School Director Students are allowed a maximum of two LOA periods throughout their time in the program.
Students who do not register or complete a Leave of Absence (LOA) for three consecutive academic terms, excluding Summer, will have their admission status revoked by the Graduate School To re-enter the program and complete their degree, these students must re-apply Previously earned credits may be transferred, adhering to the program's pre-admissions transfer credit limits and the university's guidelines regarding the expiration of graduate credits.
Grades
To remain in the MURP program, students are required to achieve a minimum grade of “B-” in all core courses If a student accumulates over nine credit hours of "C" grades after admission, they will be dismissed from the program It is important to note that all courses for MURP credit must be taken for a grade, with the exception of USP 558 Planning Workshop and USP.
The 559 Internship Workshop is graded on a Pass/No Pass basis, and courses exclusively offered in this format can be included in a student's degree program, provided they receive approval from their advisor.
Use of 400/500 Level Courses
Students are advised to limit their program to a maximum of 12 credit hours of 400/500 level courses, such as USP 456/556, to maintain a focus on graduate-level coursework and ensure that most classmates are also graduate students For any inquiries, please reach out to your advisor.
Time Limits
PSU's Graduate School mandates that all graduate degree requirements must be fulfilled within seven years, and any coursework older than seven years at graduation will not be accepted This policy applies to terminal Master's degrees, Master's degrees pursued prior to a Ph.D., and transfer credits for Master's degrees However, a limited number of PSU courses older than seven years but not exceeding ten years may count towards degree requirements if validated through a successful exam Detailed validation requirements for outdated graduate credits can be found on the GO-15 form on the Graduate School website.
In addition to regularly scheduled courses, students may register for courses “by arrangement” with individual faculty, either to:
• Conduct research of interest to the student, faculty member, and/or an external partner (USP 501); or to
• Complete a “reading and conference” around a specific subject or body of literature not covered in other classes (USP 505)
The number of credits for courses may differ, but typically aligns with regular course demands, requiring about 3.5 hours of work per week for each credit hour Students must create a detailed proposal outlining specific tasks, deliverables, and timelines in collaboration with their faculty member.
To enroll in a by-arrangement course, students should contact faculty members early, as they are not required to accept interested students, and alternative faculty may be necessary Only full-time TSUSP faculty can supervise USP 501/505 courses, excluding adjunct or affiliate faculty Students may also take by-arrangement courses in other PSU departments, but they should seek approval from their faculty advisor beforehand Enrollment forms for these courses are available electronically on the TSUSP website and must be submitted with faculty approval by the end of the first week of classes For Summer term arrangements, students should note that most TSUSP faculty are not available, so they should either find a faculty member on contract during the summer or plan to enroll for credits in the Fall term after completing the work.
MURP students can include a maximum of 12 credits from by-arrangement classes (501 and 505) in their programs If students require more than 12 credits due to a shortage of regularly scheduled classes, they must submit a waiver for approval from the MURP Program Coordinator, following a review by the MURP Executive Committee While students are allowed to arrange a 501 or 505 course to earn credits related to specific work experiences, these credits must meet the standard expectations of by-arrangement courses and cannot be awarded solely based on the work experience.
MURP students may not register for practicum credit (USP 509), or get by-arrangement credit for professional development courses or for participation in professional conferences.
Incomplete Grades
Students occasionally require an Incomplete (I) grade due to unforeseen circumstances that hinder timely completion of essential coursework It is important to note that students cannot demand or expect an Incomplete grade, as the decision to assign one rests solely with the instructor This option is only available when specific conditions are satisfied.
To request an Incomplete grade, students must demonstrate satisfactory course participation and complete most of the coursework, achieving at least a B- in graduate courses While the quality of work may be acceptable, some essential tasks must still be finished.
To request an Incomplete grade, students must provide a reasonable justification that is acceptable to the instructor, as it is not a right but a privilege The circumstances leading to the request should be unforeseen or beyond the student's control Instructors have the authority to request relevant medical or other documentation to support the student's claim.
An Incomplete grade should not be viewed as a remedy for a poor academic performance It is not intended to provide students with a chance to complete extra work to improve a low grade or to retake the course without proper registration and payment in a future term.
A written or electronic agreement, endorsed by both the instructor and student, outlines the remaining work to be completed, the maximum grade achievable upon submission, and the due date for the outstanding work, which cannot exceed one year after the course term ends A template for the Incomplete Contract can be obtained from the Office of the Registrar.
Instructors should not allow students to "sit in" on a future course to resolve an Incomplete grade If a student needs to retake the entire course, they will receive their current grade and must register for the upcoming class If the missed portion of the course is unavailable, instructors may provide an alternate assignment, ensuring its grading weight does not surpass that of the original assignment It is the student's responsibility to monitor all due dates.
Students must resolve an Incomplete grade within one calendar year; for instance, an Incomplete from Fall 2020 should be cleared by the Fall 2021 grading deadline After this period, the Incomplete will be marked as frozen on the transcript and will not affect the student's GPA If students face extenuating circumstances, they can petition the Graduate Council for an extended deadline with the approval of their instructor and the MURP Program Coordinator, using the Graduate Petition available on the Graduate School website.
Satisfactory Academic Progress
The PSU Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships mandates that all graduate students receiving financial aid must meet the criteria for “Satisfactory Academic Progress” (SAP) to maintain their eligibility The university conducts evaluations to ensure compliance with these standards.
6) Multiple Terms without Passing Grades
Programs may establish additional criteria for determining SAP MURP students may be determined to be in violation of SAP for any of the following:
1) Failure to maintain continuous enrollment (section 5.1 above);
3) Completion of unrelated graduate-level coursework; and
4) Failure to complete annual advising requirements (section 3.2)
Students who do not meet the MURP SAP standards will receive a written warning from the MURP Program Coordinator, detailing the specific requirements needed to regain satisfactory standing Failure to fulfill these conditions may result in immediate removal from the program Students have the right to appeal the program's decision to PSU.
Student Governance
MURP students significantly contribute to the governance of the Toulan School of Urban Studies and Planning by actively participating in three key committees, aligning with university policies Their involvement is crucial for effective decision-making and representation within the school.
The MURP Executive Committee includes two student representatives who play a crucial role in overseeing the MURP degree, particularly in developing and modifying the curriculum These student reps actively engage with their peers by collecting feedback through various methods such as surveys and town hall meetings to ensure that student voices are heard in the decision-making process.
A designated student serves as the Faculty Representative, attending monthly meetings to act as a liaison between the faculty and the MURP student body This role involves communicating faculty actions and deliberations, as well as participating in votes regarding curriculum changes, resolutions, and other important faculty decisions.
• At least one MURP student regularly serves on the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI)
The DEI committee is dedicated to enhancing diversity, equity, and inclusion within TSUSP and its academic programs Its initiatives focus on key areas such as student recruitment, admissions processes, curriculum development, and fostering a positive student climate.
Several students participate in the MURP Admissions Committee, with their involvement being determined by the volume of applications received We encourage student volunteers for this important role, recruiting through announcements on the student list serve and the Planning Club.
Nominations and elections for Executive Committee, Representative to the Faculty, and DEI
Committee take place in the spring term MURP students may also serve on College- and University- wide committees where student representation is sought.
Computing Resources
Students have access to a variety of computing resources on campus and through the PSU Office of Information Technology
CUPA offers two dedicated lab spaces for MURP students: the primary CUPA lab (URBN 230), accessible on weekdays from 9:00 am to 8:30 pm, featuring 25 PCs and 2 Macs, including several equipped with specialized software like Adobe Creative Suite Additionally, there is the Pernsteiner Instructor Lab available for student use.
The lab (225) is primarily designated for class instruction; however, MURP students can utilize it when not occupied by other classes, provided the main lab is open This allows access to specialized software like GIS, which is unavailable in URBN 230.
The campus offers various lab spaces with extended hours and specialized software or hardware, notably the Broadway 225 Graduate Lab in the Broadway Residence Hall at SW 6th & Jackson This lab operates 24/7, excluding university holidays and closures, and provides color and wide-format printing services for a fee.
Career Development Resources
MURP students have access to a variety of career services and development resources:
PSU’s Advising and Career Services provides diverse workshops and resources tailored for graduate students, featuring staff experts in planning-related professional fields.
• CUPA Career Services, overseen by Public Administration faculty member Cathy LaTourette, offers a number of workshops specifically related to careers in public service
The MURP program offers a LinkedIn group accessible to current students and alumni, featuring profiles of numerous MURP graduates globally This platform serves as an excellent resource for networking and discovering the professional paths of MURP alumni.
The Emerging Planners Group of the Oregon chapter of the American Planning Association (OAPA) provides valuable opportunities for individuals to explore planning careers and connect with fellow planning professionals across the region and state MURP students benefit from complimentary membership in both OAPA and APA during their program, enhancing their networking and learning experiences in the field of planning.
Student Clubs and Initiatives
The Planning Club is a student-led organization at PSU, specifically for MURP students and others interested in planning Throughout the year, the club hosts a diverse range of events and provides resources to facilitate student travel to professional conferences Additionally, elections for the Planning Club officers take place in late Fall or early Winter.
• Students in Transportation, Engineering and Planning (STEP) STEP Facebook page brings together students from a variety of disciplines at PSU with a shared interest in transportation issues
Students Addressing Urban and Community Issues (SAUCI) is a student-led organization within the Master of Urban Studies and Urban Studies PhD programs, welcoming participation from MURP students This group is dedicated to addressing critical topics such as urban and community development, sustainability, equity, and social justice.
• Graduate Students of Color (GSOC) is a student-led initiative that brings together graduate students of color from throughout the school and college.
Research and Writing Support
The PSU Branford Millar Library offers a diverse array of online and in-person resources for students, making it an essential starting point for research Key resources include the Urban Studies Research Guide and the Urban & Regional Planning Research Guide Additionally, CUPA provides a dedicated library faculty member to assist MURP students in navigating research databases and accessing digital media for their academic projects.
The CUPA Dirce Morani Toulan Library, situated on the 7th floor of the Urban Center, offers a selection of course materials available for both reserve and checkout It serves as a peaceful and quiet environment, making it an ideal spot for studying.
PSU students can benefit from free, personalized writing support offered by the Writing Center, managed by the English Department This resource provides in-depth assistance, particularly for non-native English speakers, ensuring all students enhance their writing skills effectively.
Health and Wellness
• Center for Student Health and Counseling (SHAC) [https://www.pdx.edu/shac/] provides mental health, physical health, dental health and testing services
The Disability Resource Center (DRC) at Portland State University is dedicated to fostering an accessible and inclusive learning environment for students with disabilities By collaborating with both students and faculty, the DRC ensures that educational resources and opportunities are available to all, promoting equal access to university life.
• Campus Rec offers access to fitness equipment and classes, outdoor adventure trips, and more Membership is included in your tuition
• Campus Public Safety offers late-night campus escorts, self-defense classes and other resources to help you feel safe on campus
• CARE Team offers support to students facing crisis situations ranging from mental health to homelessness
• PSU Food Pantry [https://www.pdx.edu/student-access-center/free-food-market] provides support for members of the PSU community facing food insecurity.
Diverse Student Resources
The university offers a number of resources for students from diverse and underrepresented populations, and/or facing barriers to academic success, including:
• Diversity & Multicultural Services: https://www.pdx.edu/dmss/
• Cultural Resource Centers: http://www.pdx.edu/cultural-resource-centers/
• Queer Resource Center: https://www.pdx.edu/queer/
• Women’s Resource Center: https://www.pdx.edu/wrc/
• Veteran’s Resource Center: https://www.pdx.edu/veterans/vrc
• Services for Students with Children: https://www.pdx.edu/students-with-children/
Pursuing graduate studies requires a significant commitment of time and financial resources, but various financial aid options are accessible for full-time students enrolled in at least nine credit hours per term The primary types of aid include graduate assistantships, teaching and grading positions, loans and work-study programs offered by the University’s Financial Aid office, as well as grants and scholarships from Portland State University and external organizations.
The Western Regional Graduate Program (WRGP) provides in-state tuition for PSU students enrolled in Urban Studies graduate programs who reside in states such as Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, South Dakota, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming To benefit from WRGP tuition rates, applicants must submit their application through the Graduate School before starting their classes For any inquiries regarding the process, please reach out to the Graduate School.
Graduate Assistantships
Graduate assistantships (GAs) are employment opportunities for students to engage in instructional, research, or administrative tasks, aimed at supporting the University while helping students progress in their graduate studies These positions provide valuable experience aligned with students' academic programs and career aspirations In exchange for their contributions, GAs receive a monthly stipend and a tuition waiver, with the stipend amount based on a designated full-time equivalent (FTE) workload, such as 12 hours per week for a 0.30 FTE position To qualify for a GA, students must be enrolled full-time (9 credits or more), pursuing a degree, and maintaining good academic standing while making satisfactory progress toward graduation.
Graduate research assistantships (GRAs) offer research support to faculty or research center staff on externally funded projects, with all GRAs automatically enrolled in assistantship-related Practicum or Research credits each term (IST 501A/601A or IST 509A/609A) These credits do not apply toward any degree, incur no tuition charges, and do not contribute to the 9-credit enrollment requirement Additionally, graduate administrative assistantships (GAAs) focus on providing administrative support to campus units, while graduate teaching assistantships (GTAs) are dedicated to instructional support.
There is no centralized system for obtaining Graduate Assistant (GA) positions, as the timing for postings varies based on project and funding sources Students seeking Graduate Research Assistant (GRA) roles are advised to engage with faculty in their areas of interest and monitor email announcements It's important for Master of Urban and Regional Planning (MURP) students to recognize that managing a GA position alongside coursework and other commitments can be challenging Additionally, students should not anticipate balancing a GA with an internship while enrolled in a full course load Those with GA positions are limited to working a total of 0.49 Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) on campus during any pay period, which includes hourly roles.
Hourly appointments are usually shorter in duration and typically do not include tuition benefits In contrast to Graduate Assistant (GA) positions, which provide a fixed stipend, hourly positions compensate employees based on the actual hours worked, with wage levels varying significantly.
Teaching Opportunities
TSUSP faculty frequently employ MURP students as hourly graders to assist with undergraduate courses Unlike GTAs, these student graders do not attend classes but collaborate with faculty to evaluate papers and exams Compensation for graders typically ranges from $12 to $15 per hour, with a set number of hours allocated each term If you are interested in becoming a grader, please reach out for more information.
TSUSP Office Coordinator [askusp@pdx.edu], who will relate this on to interested faculty
GTA opportunities within TSUSP are limited; however, MURP students can apply for Graduate Mentorship positions in the University Studies program at PSU Graduate Mentors act as GTAs for undergraduate Sophomore Inquiry (SINQ) classes, receiving a stipend and tuition waiver while working about 15-20 hours weekly The application deadline for this program is mid-January.
Loans and Work Study
Federal Loans
MURP students at Portland State University can access various federally-sponsored student loans, including Direct Loans in partnership with the U.S Department of Education Both interest-subsidized and unsubsidized options are offered, with repayment starting six months after the student drops below half-time status or leaves the university Notably, the federal government covers interest on subsidized loans while the student is enrolled in school.
Unsubsidized loan eligibility depends on the gap between a student's cost of attendance and the financial aid received Unlike subsidized loans, interest on unsubsidized loans begins to accumulate while the student is still in school, with no federal government interest payments For details on annual maximum loan amounts and more, visit http://www.pdx.edu/finaid/studentloans.
The Perkins Loan program offers low-interest loans to graduate students with significant financial need, provided directly by their university Repayment begins nine months after the student graduates or drops below half-time enrollment.
To be eligible for federally-sponsored loans, a student must complete the Free Application for Student Financial Aid (FAFSA): http://www.fafsa.gov/.
Work Study
Graduate students can access Federal Work Study Funds, a need-based program where the Federal government covers 70-90% of student wages, with the institution or agency responsible for the rest This initiative supports students needing part-time jobs to finance their education, offering work opportunities through metropolitan non-profit agencies and campus employment For additional student employment options, reach out to the Advising & Career Services Office at 503-725-4005, located in the University Services Building, Room 402.
Grants and Scholarships
PSU Graduate Scholarships
PSU offers a comprehensive scholarship and award database that features search functionalities, detailed information on various awards, and online application forms This database can be accessed at http://www.pdx.edu/scholarships Unless specified otherwise, applications can be submitted through the Scholarship Database Note that the deadline for University Graduate Scholarships is February 1.
CUPA/TSUSP Scholarships
The College and the School offer more than a dozen scholarships specifically for graduate students in CUPA and TSUSP, with an application deadline of February 1 for CUPA scholarships.
Non-PSU Scholarships
In addition, MURP students have been successful in applying for scholarships that are sponsored by organizations outside of PSU
• Women in Transportation Society – Portland chapter
• Eisenhower Transportation Fellowships: https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/tpp/ddetfp.htm
• American Planning Association: https://www.planning.org/scholarships/apa/
The Graduate School maintains a full list of non-PSU scholarships and awards: http://www.pdx.edu/ogs/scholarships-and-awards
The timing of these scholarships varies greatly
8 A CADEMIC H ONESTY , I NTEGRITY AND E THICS
All students have the responsibility to themselves, their fellow students and the faculty to adhere to the highest standards of academic honesty and integrity
The University expects students to uphold academic integrity, ensuring that all coursework and examinations are their own and that all admission and graduation documents are truthful and complete Adherence to academic honesty is essential for all graduate activities, with any violations subject to disciplinary actions as outlined in the University Student Conduct Code Examples of policy violations include, but are not limited to, dishonesty in academic work.
• Cheating in examinations and course assignments: the willful use, or provision to others, of unauthorized material in written or oral examinations, or in course assignments
Plagiarism is the act of using another author's or artist's language, ideas, or creations and presenting them as one's own It includes failing to properly attribute source material and submitting purchased or borrowed papers in academic settings without full disclosure of their origins.
Selling or offering course assignment materials is prohibited when one is aware, or should reasonably be aware, that a significant portion of the material is intended for submission by another individual to meet a course requirement.
Allegations of policy violations that cannot be resolved internally at the College must be submitted to the Associate Vice Provost and Dean of the Graduate School for further review.
Provost and Dean of the Graduate School concludes there are grounds to believe the allegations are well founded, the matter shall be referred to the Graduate Council
Following procedures established by the Graduate Council, the allegations and a student’s response shall be considered The decisions of the Graduate Council are final
If a violation is established, the following academic actions may be taken:
• Denial or rescission of credit for the course in which the violation occurred
Students placed on academic probation for one calendar year are restricted from applying for advancement to candidacy, cannot receive or maintain a graduate assistantship, and are limited to registering for no more than nine graduate credits in graded courses.
Students facing academic disqualification at PSU will be barred from registering for graduate courses for one to three calendar years During this disqualification period, any coursework completed cannot be applied toward a graduate degree or certificate program, and the student’s admission to such programs will be revoked To regain eligibility, the student must submit a petition for readmission after the disqualification period ends.
• Denial or rescission of the award of the graduate degree
Upon final action by the Graduate Council, all materials concerning the violation are sent to the Office of Student Affairs to assess whether any breaches of the Code of Student Conduct have taken place.
Students are encouraged to consult the University Bulletin for detailed information on academic honesty Additionally, the PSU Library offers extensive resources on plagiarism, citation practices, and other essential topics, including a comprehensive Research Guide on how to avoid plagiarism and properly cite sources.
As you reach the conclusion of this informative handbook and prepare for graduation, follow these five essential steps to ensure a seamless experience on your exciting day.
Get your DARS in order
To ensure you are on track with your degree requirements, obtain your DARS (Degree Audit Reporting System) report through Banweb late in the Winter term of your second year, after registering for Spring classes but before the term begins Your DARS report will reflect your catalog term, which corresponds to your entry term in the program (e.g., Fall 2020) This report will show completed program requirements and those still outstanding Additionally, any waivers, substitutions, or transfer credits not yet submitted to DARS will be visible at this stage If you have any questions regarding your DARS report, reach out to the Student Services Coordinator for assistance.
To ensure timely graduation, it's crucial to verify that you have the correct number of credits, as approximations are not sufficient Many students have faced delays in graduating due to incorrectly entered course credits on their Degree Planning Forms By reviewing your credits well in advance of the graduation term, you can make necessary adjustments and add credits if needed.
Apply to Graduate
To graduate, it is essential to submit your application by the first Friday of the term in which you expect to graduate You can complete this process through Banweb by navigating to the "Student Services" tab and selecting the Graduate option.
Application and Diploma Orders There is a required application fee per degree/graduate certificate as well as a service charge
Students may graduate in any term during the academic year once their degree requirements have been met.
Take Care of Business
Before graduating, it's essential to settle any outstanding library fines, printing fees, and unresolved incompletes before the grading deadline of your intended graduation term.
If you cannot meet the degree requirements for graduation, the Graduate School permits you to defer your graduation to a future term, usually the next term, but up to one year in advance To initiate this process, you must submit a written request to the Graduate School, explaining the reasons for the delay If you fail to graduate again, your application will be canceled, and you will need to reapply by the specified deadline, incurring a new fee.
Celebrate!
Historically, there have been two distinct graduation ceremonies: a "hooding ceremony" specifically for CUPA graduate degree recipients and a university-wide commencement for all undergraduate and graduate students The spring ceremonies welcome students who have graduated in any term during the previous academic year, allowing those close to graduation to participate in the CUPA hooding ceremony with their cohort Please note that these arrangements may change, and updates will be provided.
Regardless, students can expect information by email in the spring term about the graduation ceremonies, including cap and gown rental and hood purchasing
After graduation, you will be officially notified and receive your diploma within 2-3 weeks of the degree award.