Mission

Cities are now home to more than half of humanity. The mission of the undergraduate program in Urban Studies is to develop students' understanding of the nature of cities and their impact on our world. The dynamic and complex nature of cities challenges traditional disciplinary boundaries, so our program is interdisciplinary in nature, drawing from fields in the social sciences, history, and education. Courses in the program focus on issues in contemporary urban society, and on the forces and practices that shape urban life. Courses also address how cities have changed over time and how they continue to change today in societies around the world. Through a comprehensive program that includes course work, community engagement, and independent research, a major in Urban Studies prepares students for careers and graduate study in fields including architecture, business, community service, education, environmental planning, law, public policy, real estate development, urban design, and urban planning.  It also prepares students to be critical thinkers, engaged citizens, and informed leaders who can help to transform cities for the better.