Urban Studies Programs

Detailed profiles of schools for Urban Studies from the EdRef college search portal.

Urban Studies programs focus on aiding students in gaining an understanding of metropolitan regions in an economic, social, and political context. Because cities and their surrounding areas form the foundation of the global economy, students can gain immense insight from studying the social and political innovations that occur within them. There are also many challenges facing these places, including social and economic inequality, environmental problems, and problems of regional governance. Students undertake research to better understand the theoretical and applied knowledge of metropolitan regions.

One of the main areas of emphasis within urban studies is the transformation of social and economic life within the boundaries of metropolitan regions. International and comparative studies are also a significant part of most programs. Students take courses in urban lifestyles, urban governance, regional policy, metropolitan regeneration, housing, housing policy, economic development, risk, and insecurity.