Guidelines for New Applicants to Rowan's M.S. in Urban & Regional Planning

Applying to Rowan University’s Masters of Urban and Regional Planning program?

https://global.rowan.edu/programs/ms-in-urban-and-regional-planning.html

Tips for writing your resume

Ideally, keep your resume one to two pages long. Things to include when applicable:

• Contact information
• Education: your undergraduate institution, GPA, and major + relevant coursework
• Academic Achievements: awards
• Teaching Experience
• Research Experience
• Publications
• Relevant or significant work or volunteer experience
• Relevant skills (e.g., computer programs, draftsmanship; leadership; facilitation; etc.) 
• Three references

For your references

It is best to use former professors or relevant supervisors (including volunteer situations) in related or adjacent professional fields as references. Avoid using family, friends, religious leaders, and employers in very unrelated fields as references.

Tips for writing the personal statement

Each personal statement is unique and should craft an authentic narrative around both why this program is right for you and why you are right for this program. Applicants should demonstrate clear and specific knowledge related to the program, including reference to coursework, faculty, and the region in which the University is located. When writing your personal statement applying to Rowan University’s Masters of Urban and Regional Planning program, here are some criteria you should include:

Introduction:

• Begin with a clear and engaging introduction that captures the reader's attention.
• Provide a brief overview of who you are and your academic or professional background.
• Convey your genuine passion for planning and sustainability. Discuss what drives your interest in this field and how you've pursued it personally, academically, or professionally.

Program Specifics:

• Demonstrate knowledge about Rowan University's Urban and Regional Planning program.
• Mention specific features, faculty, courses, and resources that make the program appealing to you.

Academic and Professional Background:

• Discuss your academic qualifications, including your relevant degrees and coursework.
• Highlight any work experience, internships, volunteer work, or research projects related to urban planning.

Career Goals:

• Outline your career goals and explain how obtaining a Master's from Rowan in particular will contribute to achieving these goals.

Unique Qualities and Contributions:

• Identify unique qualities, skills, or experiences that set you apart from other applicants.
• Explain how these qualities can contribute to the program's diversity and intellectual community.

Commitment to Learning:

• Express your dedication to furthering your education and professional growth.
• Mention your eagerness to engage in classroom discussions, collaborative projects, or research opportunities.

Conclusion:

• Summarize the main points of your personal statement.
• Reiterate your enthusiasm for joining the program and your commitment to making a meaningful contribution.

Additionally, do not forget the following:

Proofreading and Editing:

• Carefully proofread the personal statement for grammatical and typographical errors.
• Ensure that the statement adheres to the program's specific requirements and word limits.

Individualized Approach:

• Tailor your personal statement to the unique aspects of Rowan University's program Masters of Urban and Regional Planning program.
• Avoid using a generic statement that could apply to any institution.

Honesty and Authenticity:

• Be sincere and honest in your writing, avoiding exaggerations or fabricated experiences.
• Write from the heart and convey your genuine passion and dedication to the field of city and regional planning.
• Be cautious of using coaching services. These services often fail to advise students of the need to demonstrate an in-depth understanding of Rowan University and its Masters of Urban and Regional Planning, relying instead on obvious superficial information.