Requirements for the Degree
Course work required for the degree consists of core courses including a master's thesis, restricted electives (or selectives), and open electives. Students are assigned a faculty advisor who, with the Graduate Program Coordinator, assists in selecting appropriate courses. An advisor from Seattle's professional community--the Department's Professionals Council--is also assigned to each new student to help develop an educational program and to establish a connection with the professional community.

Core course requirements to be met by all master degree students include thirty-three (33) credits covering the history and theory of planning and urban design, urban form, communication methods, processes and methods of planning, quantitative methods, land use planning and regulation, planning law, research methods, and a first year planning studio. Fourteen (14) credits of restricted credits are required, including courses in advanced methods and a second studio or laboratory-type course; both may be in an area of specialization. In addition, a course in planning history/theory ethics and one in urban development economics is required. A 9-credit thesis or professional project is also required upon completion of all other degree course work. The thesis or professional project is usually in the student's area of specialization. Sixteen (16) credits of the total 72 minimum required for the degree may be devoted to open electives or courses in an area of specialization.