Since 2000, each academic department in the College of Architecture and Planning (CAP) has achieved national distinction and ranking through interdisciplinary problem solving and innovation. Such is the tradition of creativity, real-world experience, and design thinking that exemplifies our master of urban design (MUD) program.
Located in downtown Indianapolis one block from Monument Circle, the MUD studios and classrooms demonstrate Ball State’s commitment to immersive learning. The college’s nationally acclaimed Community-Based Projects program is one of the three oldest in the United States and has assisted more than 300 communities since its inception in the 1960s. Building on this tradition while maintaining a global view, the MUD program uses the state capital and the nation’s 14th largest city as an urban laboratory to work on real projects in the community.
Indianapolis has a growing population of more than 800,000 and is initiating important infrastructure investments that will contribute to the region’s economic and environmental sustainability. CAP students and faculty are immersed in the community discussion and demonstrating the regenerative possibilities of sustainable urban design through the exploration of contemporary ideas including:
transit-oriented design
infill housing and mixed-use projects
neighborhood revitalization
river corridor planning
historic preservation
remediation and brownfields redevelopment
mixed-mode transportation
supporting implementation strategies
Students in the MUD program come from universities around the world with degrees in urban planning, architecture, and landscape architecture. They are joined by working professionals who are adding to their academic and professional credentials.
All students participate in a studio-based and community-based core curriculum taught by an interdisciplinary team of instructors from the College of Architecture and Planning. The 30-credit-hour MUD requirement can be completed in three semesters or one year. Learn more about the application process.
