Ph.D. in Urban Studies Program

Program Overview

The Doctor of Philosophy in Urban Studies degree is an interdisciplinary program within the College of Liberal Arts. This program of study enables students of exceptional ability to undertake advanced study and original research in the fields of Urban Affairs, Urban History, Urban Planning and Urban Anthropology. The program's mission is to prepare students for careers in scholarly activity, applied research, and policy analysis. The Ph.D. in Urban Studies program provides graduates with a solid foundation from which to develop policy and conduct applied research outside of academic settings and for teaching and research in colleges
and universities.

Students will master the literature and theory in a particular area of scholarship, and master the research skills necessary to make significant and original contributions in the respective fields. Program Faculty members in the areas of anthropology, history, sociology, and planning provide students guidance from research concept through graduation. The Department of Planning and Urban studies serves as the Program host and coordinates activities under the direction of the Ph.D. Executive Committee.

University Admissions and Program Application

The first step in the application process is to apply to UNO in the Admissions Office. Ph.D. program applicants should also review Graduate School admission procedures.

Applications for the Ph.D. Program in Urban Studies are reviewed only once per year. Complete applications for the 2012-2013 Academic class must be submitted on, or before, January 15.

The following materials must be sent directly to the Department of Planning and Urban Studies:

1. A department personal information sheet, which can be found at within the departmental student forms.
2. Three [3] letters of recommendation, preferably from persons familiar with your academic and professional history; these letters should be sent directly to the department rather than be routed through an applicant. Recommendations should be on letterhead with the envelope signed on the back;
3. Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores (official score report to the University, and a photocopy to the Ph.D. Program in UNO/PLUS);
4. Official transcripts from all previously attended institutions of higher education (official transcripts to the University, and photocopies to the Ph.D. Program in UNO/PLUS);
5. Example(s) of previous research and written work;
6. International students need to submit additional information. Details can be found within the "International Application Process" area of the "Apply to UNO" section of Admissions. Be sure to check the "Resources" as and the "FAQ's" information boxes for helpful information, too.

Re-Applicants

Students who are re-applying to the Program must contact the Ph.D. Program Coordinator for
re-application requirements.

Financial Aid

If you are applying for financial aid through the department, you should also file the "Graduate Assistantship Application for Financial Aid" form, which can be found under Student Forms on the menu.  Also required is a separate writing sample (different from the personal statement). Additional information about Financial Aid can be found on the Financial Aid website.

Graduate School/University Scholarships

If you are interested in applying for a University Scholarship, through the Graduate School, you must submit a scholarship application to the PhD Program in Urban Studies. You must submit a writing sample that describes your planned study and qualification for the scholarship. This statement is different from the personal statement provided to the Program.  Additional information about Graduate Scholarships can be found on the Graduate School website. The 2012 Scholarship application will be posted in late fall. Please review the PLUS website or contact the Program in October for additional documentation.