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Urban and Environmental Planning and Policy
Ph.D. Program in Urban and Environmental Planning and Policy
Today's complex environmental, social and urban issues are best understood by researchers who can work across disciplinary boundaries, and who understand the relationship of research to action. The Urban and Environmental Planning and Policy (UEPP) doctoral program at UCI trains scholars in the analysis of social problems related to the built, natural, and institutional environments. The UEPP Ph.D. is based on the department's internationally prominent research and teaching strengths in environmental policy, urban and community development and design.
What Sets Us Apart?
- Interdisciplinary scholarship, with faculty degrees in architecture, business, economics, geography, law, planning, policy, political science, sociology
- Mission and vision to conduct high quality research and make the world a better place
- Faculty who recognize the benefits of and provide advisement for both qualitative and quantitative research
- Commitment to career-appropriate guidance and support for students
- Excellent morale and sense of community among students
- Good financial support , equitably distributed
- Strong placements in R1 universities, government positions and nonprofits
The Ph.D. Program in Urban and Environmental Planning and Policy (UEPP) is a part of the Department of Urban Planning and Public Policy (UPPP). We invite you to dive deeper in to learn more about UPPP. Take a look at the message from our Chair, Professor Walter Nicholls , and explore our News section and Events listing, where you'll find highlights of the many accomplishments and activities being undertaken by our faculty, students, and alumni. Our Research page showcases centers and initiatives UPPP faculty and students engage in to address significant issues throughout the world.
Note: The official name of our department changed in 2017 from "Planning, Policy, and Design" to "Urban Planning and Public Policy." The name of the doctoral degree conferred is now "Ph.D. in Urban and Environmental Planning and Policy."
Meet Our Students
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Doctor of Philosophy in Environmental Design and Planning
Bolanle Ogunseiju (center front), a doctoral student in the environmental design and planning program, is working with Akanmu to make the project’s virtual environments both realistic and accessible for students. Chiravi Patel for Virginia Tech.
Shape the future of the built environment and unlock infinite research possibilities .
The Doctor of Philosophy in Environmental Design and Planning (EDP) at Virginia Tech's Myers-Lawson School of Construction equips students with the professional and academic skills needed to tackle the challenges of designing, constructing, and maintaining tomorrow's built environment, preparing them for successful careers in both industry and academia. Unleash your potential and explore diverse research areas, from building design and construction to operations and end-of-life-cycle. The EDP degree encourages cross-disciplinary research, fostering innovation and collaboration to address real-world problems. With a total of 90 credit hours required, the program is accessible to students from various backgrounds, experiences, and affiliations.
Of students are fully funded
Required credit hours for core courses and research credits
Faculty, student mentorship
Application information
For more information on the application process for Virginia Tech's graduate school please visit:
About our Program
In the classroom, Akanmu (far right) teaches the fundamentals of digitally mapping job sites for futuristic worker training and assessing hazardous conditions in a safe setting. Chiravi Patel for Virginia Tech.
Through the diverse and comprehensive coursework of EDP, students will study a robust curriculum, spanning from core courses to cross-disciplinary research that bridges different disciplines. This multidimensional approach to education allows students to develop a deep understanding of the built environment and fosters creative problem-solving skills. Students have the flexibility to design their plan of study, working closely with faculty experts who provide guidance and mentorship.
Core Benefits of Our Degree Program
Spot, the autonomous robot dog, in action during a demonstration at Virginia Tech. Photo by Sarah Myers for Virginia Tech.
World-Class Faculty and Cutting-Edge Research
Faculty in EDP program are involved in research areas such as building information modeling (BIM), energy-efficient design, green building materials, construction waste management, and resilience planning in urban environments. The diverse research conducted by Environmental Design and Planning faculty not only enhances the educational experience for students but also contributes to the advancement of knowledge and best practices within the construction industry and related fields.
High Demand for Our Graduates
Graduates of Environmental Design and Planning stand out as leaders capable of delivering innovative solutions and driving transformative change in the industry — thanks to the comprehensive foundation they receive from our expert faculty, mentorship from leading construction firms, and a valuable network of peers. Our program's emphasis on cross-disciplinary research and collaboration equips graduates with the skills to address complex challenges and make a meaningful impact on the construction industry and beyond.
Immersing in the Multidisciplinary Culture of Construction
Experience the multidisciplinary culture of the construction industry, engage in practical projects, and seize opportunities for internships, shadowing, and study abroad. Embark on a transformative journey that will help you realize your full potential and become an agent of change within the construction industry or academia.
Embarking on the Environmental Design and Planning program offers a life-changing opportunity to become a leader in the rapidly evolving construction industry and academia .
By focusing on sustainability, resilience, and cutting-edge technologies, graduates can make a meaningful impact on the built environment, shaping a brighter future in urban development, infrastructure planning, and environmental stewardship. With expert faculty, valuable mentorship, and a strong network of peers, pursuing the EDP program is an investment in a fulfilling and influential career, where you can leave a lasting legacy on the world around you.
Innovative learning through cutting-edge research.
Our faculty conduct groundbreaking, impactful research — which translates to innovative teaching practices in the classroom. This includes faculty like Abiola Akanmu, who uses augmented reality and holograms to create teachable virtual construction scenarios that engage students' hands and minds. This research aims to improve worksite safety, mitigate risks, and tailor learning experiences to meet the needs of industry partners.
Abiola Akanmu (third from right) and Myers-Lawson School of Construction graduate students set up an array of sensors to digitally map a practice worksite on the Virginia Tech campus. The research is part of a National Science Foundation study to create student training programs using virtual and augmented reality. Chiravi Patel for Virginia Tech.
Graduate Advising and Resources
Find information on policies, coursework, expectations, advisor contact information, forms, and more on our Graduate Advising and Resources page.
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