Master of Science in Urban Studies (MSUS)

Since 1971, the Master of Science in Urban Studies (MSUS) program has enabled students to engage in the interdisciplinary study of cities and the urbanization process. The MSUS program allows students to pursue a wide variety of research and professional interests.  While some MSUS graduates find themselves entering applied fields in urban planning, public administration, and other urban professions, others pursue specialized and sophisticated research that leads to doctoral study.

The MSUS program emphasizes an interdisciplinary course of study built around a core knowledge of urban literature and research methods. Following successful completion of the core courses, students develop their own curricula centering on a particular area or research interest that they will fully expand upon in their theses.

The flexibility of the MSUS program allows students to pursue career fields that are emerging and may not be covered in more structured and traditional masters programs. We have a strong subfield in anthropology offered in conjunction with the UNO Department of Anthropology. Working with anthropologists enables students to bring qualitative research methods and the insights of cultural theory to the study of central questions in urban life. We have another strong subfield in geography offered in conjunction with the UNO Department of Geography. Working with geographers, students approach fundamental questions about contemporary life through an understanding of spatial relationships and receive training in spatial analysis methods including GIS and remote sensing. The program also offers a subfield in urban planning and historic preservation. In addition, students have the opportunity to design a unique program of study that incorporates the insights of the three departments and other UNO resources. The MSUS program prepares students to continue into PhD programs or pursue professional opportunities in governmental agencies, private corporations and non-profit organizations. Students are also encouraged to attend and participate in professional and academic conferences where they can learn directly about how to communicate their results as well as network with their future colleagues.

Please contact Dr. Renia Ehrenfeucht, MSUS Program Coordinator, for more MSUS program information.