Enter OTP
4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program
Illinois Institute of TechnologyA major focusing on economic and social challenges in urban and regional settings. Prepares students for policy-making, planning, or consulting in cities and regions.
Curriculum Structure
Years 1–2: Core Foundations
Economics, statistics, and urban studies
Intro to policy analysis and urban governance
Quantitative methods and data tools
Years 3–4: Urban Policy Focus
Urban and regional economic development
Housing, transportation, sustainability policy
GIS, spatial economics, and modeling
Capstone or field practicum in urban settings
Focus Areas
Urban economic policy and planning
Regional development and sustainability
Spatial analysis and urban governance
Learning Outcomes
Analyze and design solutions for urban/regional issues
Apply economic tools to housing, transit, sustainability
Prepare for urban planning, policy roles, or graduate programs
Accreditation & Reputation
HLC accredited; offered through the College of Design and Architecture and College of Science & Letters; strong urban technical focus
This program targets infrastructure, housing, transportation, and inequality in urban areas.
Experiential learning includes:
Urban planning simulations using GIS software, R, and regional economic data tools.
Studio-style courses and group projects on urban revitalization, zoning, and economic resilience.
Internships arranged through partnerships with City of Chicago agencies and planning nonprofits.
Access to the Wanger Institute for Sustainable Energy Research (WISER) and policy labs.
Field trips to analyze regional development projects firsthand.
This program is designed for students who want to shape cities, improve infrastructure, and develop equitable communities through data-informed economic and social policies. Graduates often become urban planners, housing policy analysts, community development officers, or research associates in local government or nonprofits. Illinois Tech supports your path through:
Career Services offers tailored support for civic and planning-focused careers, with access to internships at city agencies, urban think tanks, and community organizations.
Graduates typically earn starting salaries between $50,000–$63,000, especially in urban policy or planning positions in metro areas.
Located in Chicago, the university partners with institutions like Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP), City Tech Collaborative, and Elevate Energy, giving students access to hands-on fieldwork and policy research.
Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), the program ensures long-term recognition in government, nonprofit, and consultancy sectors.
The curriculum blends public policy, urban economics, GIS, and infrastructure planning—preparing students to make data-driven decisions for communities and cities.
Further Academic Progression:
Graduates often continue with Master’s in Urban Planning, Public Administration (MPA), or Regional Development. Many also pursue law degrees or PhDs in urban policy or sustainable development.
IELTS - Overall score of 6.5 with individual component being 6.0TOEFL - Overall score of 80 with no subscore below 17.Official or unofficial high school transcript (showing GPA and coursework)SAT/ACT scores, unless HS GPA meets criteria or standardized exam waiver grantedLetter(s) of recommendation (usually 1–2 academic or professional references)Personal statement/essay, as prompted on Common AppResume or list of extracurriculars and achievementsFor international applicants: official academic transcripts and credential evaluations, English proficiency scores (TOEFL, IELTS, etc.)Any supplemental program-specific materials, such as interest statements or short-answer responsesUrban plannerpolicy analysteconomic development specialistcity government advisorhousing coordinatortransportation plannercommunity development officernonprofit program managersustainability consultantregional development analystpublic affairs specialisturban data analystenvironmental policy advisorinfrastructure plannersocial research associate
Embark on your educational journey with confidence! Our team of admission experts is here to guide you through the process. Book a free session now to receive personalized advice, assistance with applications, and insights into your dream school. Whether you're applying to college, graduate school, or specialized programs, we're here to help you succeed.
