The Maxine Goodman Levin School of Urban Affairs at Cleveland State University is consistently recognized as one of the best public affairs colleges in the nation according to U.S. News & World Report.

Our Master of Science in Urban Studies program prepares students to assume leadership roles in organizations, to analyze urban systems, and to develop creative and effective strategies for urban revitalization. The MSUS program offers advanced training in urban studies to recent undergraduate-degree recipients, practitioners already working in the field, and returning students who wish to pursue careers in public, not-for-profit, or private service.

The MS in Urban Studies program educates students on theoretical perspectives and applied research methods useful for effectively solving complex urban problems. This program offers a wide array of learning opportunities beyond the classroom, especially through graduate assistantships and internships where students gain practical experience, build professional networks, and enhance their opportunities for job placement and career advancement.

No single discipline adequately covers the broad spectrum of knowledge that the modern urban problem solver needs. The program draws on resources and faculty from a variety of disciplines, colleges, and departments, with coursework in the following areas:

• Research design and program evaluation
• Public policy and analysis
• Community and neighborhood development
• Public finance and economics
• Regional theory and analysis
• Urban ecology and environmental sustainability
• Housing policy and real estate development
• Economic and workforce development
• Organizational leadership

The MS in Urban Studies program is comprised of 39 credit hours, including core courses, an area of specialization or electives, and a capstone. Learn more about this program. »

Students have the option to earn certificates in Environmental Sustainability, Local Government, Nonprofit Management, or Society 5.0 (Advanced Technology and Society).

Our mentoring program and internships  enhance professional development, augment the student experience, and help advance careers.

Careers in Urban Affairs

According to a 2021 Forbes report, careers related to urban studies are among the fastest-growing occupations in the U.S.

Graduates of the MS in Urban Studies program work to make our cities better places to live and are well-prepared for leadership roles in diverse areas such as economic development, community development, regional planning, government, investment banking, and civil rights protection. Some of our graduates who are interested in research go on to pursue doctoral degrees. Our graduates find sustainable careers in:

• Community development, housing, and neighborhood revitalization
• Economic and workforce development
• Program evaluation and policy analysis
• Local, state, and federal government
• Healthcare management
• Public safety management
• Human services and resource management
• Urban planning
• Urban research

Streamlined Application Process and Courses that Fit Your Schedule

Graduate programs at the Maxine Goodman Levin School of Urban Affairs are designed to accommodate part-time, mid-career students, as well as full-time students. Courses are offered primarily during the evenings. Full-time students can complete their graduate degree in two academic years.

Graduate Assistantships and Scholarships

The Maxine Goodman Levin School of Urban Affairs offers graduate assistantship opportunities and more than 30 dedicated scholarships for its students.