VCU's Wilder School: Where Public Service Leadership Begins

Build practical skills for roles in urban planning, public administration, criminal justice, homeland security and GIS through flexible online and on-campus study. Explore our top master’s and flexible certificate programs:

  • Criminal Justice, M.S. (On-campus)
  • Homeland Security & Emergency Preparedness, M.A. (Online)
  • Public Administration, M.P.A. (On-campus or Online)
  • Urban & Regional Planning, M.U.R.P. (On-campus)
  • Geographic Information Systems CERT
  • Non-profit Management CERT
  • Public Management CERT
  • Sustainability Planning CERT
  • Urban Revitalization CERT

Choose online, part-time or accelerated paths and prepare for impactful work in government, planning agencies, nonprofits and public safety.

VCU by the Numbers

  • 12K+ VCU Wilder School alums
  • #6 In the nation for Homeland Security
    U.S. News & World Report
  • 15% Top 15% of Public Affairs programs nationwide
    U.S. News & World Report
  • 20% Top 20% Best Global Universities
    U.S. News & World Report

Respond to the Issues That Shape Our Cities and Communities

The Wilder School’s programs go beyond public service training. Our master's programs will help you advance your career and transform ideas into real-world solutions. Or if you want to upskill but aren't seeking a full degree, consider one of our graduate certificates that will help you elevate your career in public service. Explore how each one aligns directly with today’s public sector challenges:

  • Urban & Regional Planning (M.U.R.P.) — Studio-based training in land use, transportation and community development.
  • Nonprofit Management Certificate — Leadership and operational skills for nonprofit roles.
  • Public Management Certificate — Foundations in budgeting, HR and public sector leadership.
  • Urban Revitalization Certificate — Tools for redevelopment and community improvement initiatives.
  • Sustainability Planning Certificate — Strategies for climate, environmental and community resilience work.
  • GIS Certificate — Applied mapping and spatial analysis for planning and public service.
  • Public Administration, M.P.A. — Policy analysis, management and ethical leadership for public sector careers.
  • Homeland Security & Emergency Preparedness, M.A. — Emergency management and security planning.
  • Criminal Justice, M.S. — Advanced study for research and leadership across justice organizations.

Ideal for working professionals, these urban planning master’s, emergency preparedness master's, MPA programs, GIS certificates and criminal justice master’s pathways provide flexible preparation for public service careers.

A Network, Skill Set and Support System Built for Impact

Wilder School graduate students gain personalized advising, hands-on experience and professional networks that support advancement in planning, policy, emergency management, nonprofits and justice fields.

You’ll gain access to:

  • Career advising across public administration, planning and public safety fields.
  • Internships and applied projects with agencies and community partners.
  • Student organizations that build leadership and service experience.
  • A network of 12,000+ alums across government and nonprofit sectors.
  • Opportunities to apply learning through community research and fieldwork.

Whether you're pursuing an urban planning master’s, MPA, HSEP, GIS certificate, nonprofit management credential or criminal justice master’s, Wilder School programs help you build skills that shape stronger, more resilient communities.

I met so many people that would have a real impact on where I could go in my career, and I still talk with them today. The networking opportunities and security clearance set me up for a successful interview.

Evan Hirsh, Intelligence Analyst, Booz Allen Hamilton

Ahead of His Class: Celebrating 90 Years of Pathbreaking Leadership in Education

Friends, students and colleagues honored Governor L. Douglas Wilder’s on his 90th birthday, celebrating his leadership as the nation’s first elected Black governor and champion of education and his lasting impact on Virginia and future leaders.

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We’ll be in touch with more information soon. In the meantime, learn more about us and how we can help you reach your goals. Or if you’re ready to take the next step, we invite you to apply today!

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Respond to the Issues That Shape Our Cities and Communities

The Wilder School’s programs go beyond public service training. Our master's programs will help you advance your career and transform ideas into real-world solutions. Or if you want to upskill but aren't seeking a full degree, consider one of our graduate certificates that will help you elevate your career in public service. Explore how each one aligns directly with today’s public sector challenges:

  • Urban & Regional Planning (M.U.R.P.) — Studio-based training in land use, transportation and community development.
  • Nonprofit Management Certificate — Leadership and operational skills for nonprofit roles.
  • Public Management Certificate — Foundations in budgeting, HR and public sector leadership.
  • Urban Revitalization Certificate — Tools for redevelopment and community improvement initiatives.
  • Sustainability Planning Certificate — Strategies for climate, environmental and community resilience work.
  • GIS Certificate — Applied mapping and spatial analysis for planning and public service.
  • Public Administration, M.P.A. — Policy analysis, management and ethical leadership for public sector careers.
  • Homeland Security & Emergency Preparedness, M.A. — Emergency management and security planning.
  • Criminal Justice, M.S. — Advanced study for research and leadership across justice organizations.

Ideal for working professionals, these urban planning master’s, emergency preparedness master's, MPA programs, GIS certificates and criminal justice master’s pathways provide flexible preparation for public service careers. Learn More

Explore what VCU has to offer

Whether you want to schedule a campus visit, attend an info session or connect with your department of interest, we’re excited to meet with you! Your goals are unique, and we’re here to help you reach them.

Become part of the UNcommon. Keep exploring VCU and find out what makes us so special.

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Ready to be a Ram?

Embrace the UNexpected. Apply now to join our community and start building a new future today. When you apply, there are:

  • Many programs do not require test scores, or offer waivers
  • Out-of-state students for programs listed may qualify for reduced tuition
  • Consideration for available Graduate Assistantships, or scholarships
  • Expedited admissions decision for most programs

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Joining VCU opens your future to UNlimited opportunities, and we want you to be confident in your decision to attend. If you have any questions, we invite you to contact the VCU Graduate School! We’re here for whatever you need.