“I was able to make connections and grow my network of peers and professional contacts through the courses I took and the other various college events I attended. The ongoing research and interaction I had through the MUPDD program helped me to expand my areas of expertise and stay up-to-date on current issues and trends in the world of planning and development."

“Currently I focus primarily on transportation issues and sustainability initiatives in University Circle. I am focused on measures that will help enhance a pedestrian oriented environment, while at the same time accommodating for the large influx of other transportation modes that will come with the growing development in the neighborhood. Beyond this, I work day-to-day on other planning and development related projects that will help the neighborhood grow and become a more complete and vibrant urban district.”

“My experience at the College of Urban Affairs prepared me for my position as a research assistant in a variety of ways. It provided me with a solid foundation of theoretical and applied knowledge that is vital in thinking through complex issues. I also developed a unique skill set that is applicable in many areas of research. My experience as a graduate assistant provided me with an opportunity to work on real world policy issues. I work on a variety of economic and fiscal impact studies, benchmarking studies, economic development strategies and policy analysis reports.”

Graduate students are involved in administrative and research projects that enhance their academic learning and provide valuable networking opportunities.

“My coursework further developed my critical thinking skills and increased my knowledge of the neighborhoods of the City of Cleveland. As a development associate with The Coral Company, I manage multiple commercial and residential and development projects, and I research potential development projects.”

Hands-on learning is the predominant feature of the curriculum at the Urban College. Professors involve students in finding solutions to real problems faced by local agencies and governments.

“The faculty provided many community contacts through the various speakers who presented to my classes.”

The College of Urban Affairs is located in downtown Cleveland where students benefit from the expertise of the College’s faculty and partnerships with public, private and nonprofit sectors.

“The Cleveland Foundation selection committee noted my keen awareness of history and a sense of duty to use my skills and resources to their fullest potential. Linking my law education with practical policy considerations gives me the opportunity to advocate in a principled manner while still thinking globally about the bigger issues.”

Maria is a Fellow with The Cleveland Foundation.

“I was able to network through my graduate internship with Cuyahoga County. The networking allowed people to see my work ethic and have the trust in me that I could do the job.”

Networking opportunities available in internships provided Trevor with the visibility he needed to land the job. The Office of Student Services in the Urban College coordinates internships, assistantships, and research projects, which provide valuable networking opportunities and possible placement upon graduation.

“Working as a City Management Graduate Assistant at the Levin College with Professor Sylvester Murray is a BIG key to my current success.”

Graduate students are involved in administrative and research projects that enhance their academic learning and provide valuable networking opportunities.

“My experience at the College equipped me with the educational foundation to pursue law school and a future career in politics. Professors and staff were readily available to assist me with issues related to class and beyond.” The Levin College’s faculty and staff provide students with opportunities to earn undergraduate and graduate degrees--and each of those degrees is designed to train individuals to make a difference in the development of their communities.

“My experience at CSU, especially my dissertation topic, enabled me to be competitive in the academic job market, especially in regards to land development and land use. Given the timely nature of my dissertation topic, several colleges were interested in me as a possible new faculty member. This background provided me with the ability to obtain a tenure-track position at an excellent university. The main responsibilities of my position focus on teaching existing classes as well as proposing and developing new courses to expand the Master of Science in Land Development Program.”

Career opportunities for individuals receiving a Ph.D. in interdisciplinary urban affairs programs are expanding. The demand for urban and public affairs Ph.D.’s in the traditional academic market continues. Ph.D.’s are also in demand in the corporate and nonprofit sectors.

“The College of Urban Affairs helped lay the foundation for me to become an effective young professional in the field of community development. Through my courses and employment at the college, I learned how to approach problems both creatively and analytically. My college experience also afforded me the opportunity to build a network of skilled professionals to support me in my current and future career endeavors.”

Hands-on learning is the predominant feature of the curriculum at the Urban College. Professors involve students in finding solutions to real problems faced by local agencies and governments.

“I am a career public servant. My MPA has daily application in my work! The degree I earned at the College of Urban Affairs greatly assisted my career transition from City Attorney to City Manager.”

The Levin College of Urban Affairs develops leaders for public service through the College’s nationally-ranked MPA Program. Anthony is part of a growing number of alumni who are committed to excellence in public service.