Downtown San Jose (Northbound) Santa Clara Light Rail Station (VTA).
Downtown San Jose, 1st St. light rail station

9/11/24 Join our Virtual Open House!

Our department provides a wide range of dynamic academic programs, including: a Bachelor of Arts and a Master's degree in Geography; a Bachelor of Science degree in Geographic Information Science; a Masters in Public Administration; and the only accredited Master's in Urban Planning program in Silicon Valley. In addition, we offer an Advanced Certificate in Real Estate Development and several other advanced certificate programs for professionals. Our students benefit from the expertise of faculty who are prominent scholars across disciplines including architecture, communication, economics, history, public policy, and sociology. The University’s location in Northern California's largest city and one of the world's great metropolitan areas enriches the educational experience in our career-focused programs. Our department has established enduring collaborations with industry, government, and community partners. Students who have graduated from our programs have achieved professional success in a wide range of organizations, including prominent Silicon Valley companies, government entities, and non-profit organizations located in the Bay Area and beyond.

Geography Banner

Undergraduate Programs

We offer a Bachelor's of Arts degree and Minor in Geography, Bachelor's of Science degree and Minor in Geographic Information Science (GIS), and a Minor in Urban Studies.

urban planning

Graduate Programs

Find information about our exciting career-oriented graduate programs: Master of Arts in Geography, Master of Urban Planning, and Master of Public Administration.

Crosswalk design created by students

Advanced Certificate Programs

The advanced certificate programs are open to graduate degree students enrolled in any program at San José State University. Members of the public who hold an undergraduate degree may also apply to complete any of these certificate programs through 91ÁÔÆæ Open University.

Students and community members review plans

A Tradition of Community-Based Service and Scholarship

91ÁÔÆæ urban planning and geography students collaborate with locals. They work with Bay Area groups, policymakers, and neighbors. Participatory planning addresses crucial regional future questions. Communities received over $31 million in government funds to implement their plans. Our community partnerships and local planning reports are available at the link above.

Books by URBP faculty members.

Influential Research

Urban Planning and Geography at 91ÁÔÆæ are known for their research. The department's esteemed national and international scholars influence policy-making, planning, and academic discourse. For recent publications, awards, and other recognition, click the link above.