Tufts University
Admissions
 
Alumna Profile
 
Melanie N. Spencer
M.A., Tufts University, 2007

B.A., Political Science, Tufts University, 2004.
 
Field(s) of Study
Urban and Social Policy
 
Experience Before UEP:
 
Intern/Project Manager, NYC Department of Housing Preservation & Development, New York, NY.
 
Intern, Office of Human Diversity,City of Medford, Medford, MA.
 
Overseas missionary team member, Students International, Jarabocoa, Dominican Republic.
 
Current Job:
 
Planner, Environmental Group, Parsons Brinckerhoff, New York.
 
"I chose the UEP program because of its focus on interdisciplinary topics that relate to both planning and policy. I am interested in urban planning as well as the social, economic, and political issues pertaining to the individuals that live within urban environments. The classes at UEP offer the opportunity to explore these different aspects which I feel are important for a comprehensive knowledge in my field. Ultimately, I aspire to be an individual that can contribute to improving conditions within the urban community and I know that with my experiences in UEP I will be equipped with the tools to do so."
 
 
 
FINANCIAL AID
 
Through the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, the department is able to award a generous number of partial tuition remission scholarships each year based on each student's financial need. These scholarship awards typically average approximately 35% of the tuition. Financial need is calculated on the basis of assets, outstanding debt (including undergraduate student loans), family situations, including parents' ability to contribute, and students' obligations. Students seeking this department-based financial aid should complete the financial aid application found on the Graduate Studies, click here. Submit the financial aid application along with your completed supplemental application materials.

All federal and state need-based aid programs, including loans and federal work study are administered by Student Financial Services. Applications for Federal Stafford Loans, Federal Perkins Loans, and Federal Work Study may be obtained by contacting:

 
Student Financial Services
Dowling Hall
Tufts University
Medford, MA 02155
(617) 627-2000

Research and Teaching Assistantships

The department awards a limited number of teaching and research assistantships each year for which all students may apply. Most often teaching assistantships are assigned to second-year students who have demonstrated proficiency in a particular subject matter. Teaching assistants are expected to work 8-10 hours per week and are paid a stipend for the semester. The primary role of the teaching assistant is to evaluate student assignments and to be available for individual and group tutoring or review sessions during the semester.

Research assistantships are advertised throughout the year as they become available. Research assistants are paid $12 - $15 per hour and may work up to a maximum of 20 hours per week.

Alvin Levin Fellowship

The department is committed to increasing the diversity of its student body. The Alvin Levin Fellowship provides financial assistance to a woman of color who pursues a master's degree in urban and environmental policy and planning.

Miriam Charef Simonds Scholarship

The department also administers the Miriam Charef Simonds Scholarship, which is awarded to a continuing student who has completed one year of study and demonstrated a commitment to public service.

 
 
 
 
UEP
 
 
Tufts
 
 
 
Department of
Urban and Environmental
Policy and Planning
 
Tufts University
97 Talbot Avenue
Medford, MA 02155 USA
Phone (617) 627-3394