School of Planning, Design and Construction

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is this program STEM?
   • The Construction Management and Urban & Regional Planning programs are coded as STEM.
   • The Environmental Design is not currently considered STEM.

2. Is this program accredited?
   • The Masters of Urban & Regional Planning program is accredited through the Planning Accreditation Board.
   • The Masters of Construction Management and the Masters of Environmental Design are not accredited programs.

3. Is the GRE Mandatory?
   • Construction Management Master's – Yes
   • Environmental Design Master's– Yes
   • Urban & Regional Planning Master's – No, but suggested if undergraduate GPA is below 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale).

4. What is the duration of the program?
   • All our Masters degrees are typically completed in 2 years.
   • There is a five year time limit for completing a Masters in Construction Management or Environmental Design. The Masters in Urban & Regional Planning has a six year time limit.

5. What are the tuition fees and living expenses for this program?
   • Tuition and Fees may vary year to year. For the most up-to-date information, please see MSU’s Tuition Calculator or the Sample Budget. 

6. What is the difference between Plan A and Plan B?
   • Plan A is a Thesis option. Plan B options vary depending on program.  Please see the below links for details on program requirements

7. What are the detailed program requirements?
   • Detailed information about the academic requirements of each of our programs can be found via the following links:
     1. Masters of Science in Construction Management
     2. Masters of Arts in Environmental Design
     3. Masters of Urban & Regional Planning