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

Join us!

Our department provides a diverse range of captivating academic programs, which includes: a Bachelor of Arts and a Master's degree in Geography; a Bachelor of Science program in Geographic Information Science; Master's degrees in Geography and the sole accredited Master's program in Urban Planning within the Silicon Valley. In addition, we offer several Advanced Certificate Programs. Our students benefit from the expertise of faculty who are prominent scholars from several academic disciplines, such as: architecture, communication, economics, history, public policy, and sociology. The University’s location in one of Northern California's greatest metropolises 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.

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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 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 SJSU Open University.

Students and community members review plans

A Tradition of Community-Based Service and Scholarship

SJSU 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 SJSU 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.

View of San Jose, Northern California's largest city.

SJSU is located on the traditional territory of the Muwekma Ohlone people, in the 'Valley of Heart's Delight' on the southern end of the San Francisco Bay.