What is urban studies?

There is no single way to understand cities. There is no master discipline which unlocks their secrets and no one profession which holds the key to their future. Starting from these assumptions, Urban Studies takes an interdisciplinary approach. It brings many different perspectives to the study of urban life.

Just as no one discipline can provide all the answers, the Urban Studies Program cannot give you the solutions to the problems confronting American cities or a ticket to a specific profession. But it is a place to start. In the Urban Studies Program, you can begin to learn how to think about cities in an informed, disciplined and integrated way. You can try out professional options.

Urban Studies is a flexible and intimate program. You choose a disciplinary specialization and you can shape your program through courses that reflect your particular interests. You will also get some training in urban research both through a course on research methods and through their application in carrying out research on a topic of your choice for the senior seminar paper. You will obtain an internship placement in a city work place. In this sequence of activities, you will get to know many of the other Urban Studies majors.

Each year, Urban Studies Program invites a distinguished urban researcher to give a public lecture and conduct a seminar with the seniors. The program has a governance board that advises the administration on curriculum, special events, and helping to choose the annual lecturer.