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School of Architecture

Master of City and Regional Planning

Admission to the Clemson University MCRP program requires submission of an official online application to Clemson's Graduate School.

Candidates should initiate the admission process in the year prior to their enrollment. The University uses a rolling admission process that enables applications to be reviewed as they are received. Although the University uses a rolling admissions process, candidates are encouraged to apply by March 1st to receive priority consideration for a departmental assistantship. Typically, incoming graduate students in the Master of City and Regional Planning program begin their studies during the fall semester. Admission for either Spring semester or part-time studies is possible, but can extend your time to completion due to the sequential nature of the core curriculum.

Academic Standards

Students come from a range of disciplines such as architecture, political science, sociology, civil engineering, urban affairs, economics, geography, environmental science, psychology, landscape architecture, business, history, English and communications. The School of Architecture has the same academic standards as the Graduate School.

The department prefers that students achieve at least a 3.0 in their undergraduate studies.Taking the GRE is encouraged, but not required in the application process to the MCRP program. If you decide to submit GRE scores, the department sets a goal of prospective students achieving median scores on each section (151 in the Verbal, 149 in the Quantitative and 4.0 in the Writing).

Submission Requirements

Application deadline: March 1

All application components are to be completed and submitted online to the Office of Graduate Admissions.  Required application materials are:

1- Graduate Admissions online application
2- Application fee
3- Unofficial Transcripts*
4- Three letters of recommendation - with at least one from a current or former professor
5- Resume - containing a brief description of academic background and any relevant work experience
6- Statement of purpose and personal narrative - Please include your interest in pursuing a graduate degree in City and Regional Planning, your preparation and aptitude for this field, your future career goals and your interest in Clemson’s program. (no more than 1000 words)
7- Test Scores: GRE** (Waived) and TOEFL***  ETS institutional code 5111.

GRE Fee Reduction Program: ETS provides program for individuals who can demonstrate financial need.

*Official Transcripts are required if admission into the program is granted.
** Prefer 151 Verbal, 149 Quantitative, 4.0 writing.
***International applicants only (Prefer 100/250/600)

Please note that according to university policies, any and all application materials submitted to either the Graduate School or Department become property of Clemson University and are not returned.

See The Graduate School for additional information.


Questions may be directed to the CRP program office. Although it is not a requirement, students are encouraged to visit the campus and meet with faculty and students in the program. 

Students interested in the Master of City and Regional Planning program should contact us to arrange a visit. We request at least a one week notice to coordinate so you may be able to meet with faculty and visit relevant classes. Visits are typically held on Tuesdays through Thursdays to accommodate the program’s class schedules, but visits on other days are can be arranged. 

MCRP program questions: Administrative Coordinator