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Urban Studies
The Bachelor of Arts in Urban Studies at Brown University provides students with an interdisciplinary understanding of cities, urban systems, and the social, political, and economic processes that shape urban life. Students examine the complexities of urban development, governance, and policy, exploring topics such as housing, transportation, sustainability, inequality, and community planning. The program integrates sociology, political science, geography, economics, and environmental studies, equipping students with analytical and practical skills to critically assess how cities function and evolve over time. Coursework emphasizes both theory and real-world application, allowing students to explore how urban spaces impact human behavior and societal outcomes.
Students engage with hands-on research, fieldwork, and collaborative projects to understand urban dynamics from multiple perspectives. The curriculum encourages critical thinking, data analysis, and problem-solving while promoting awareness of social justice, diversity, and sustainable urban development. Opportunities for internships with city planning agencies, non-profit organizations, and international urban programs provide practical experience, preparing students to address complex urban challenges in both domestic and global contexts. Graduates leave the program with the knowledge, analytical skills, and interdisciplinary perspective necessary to shape equitable and resilient urban environments.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Urban Studies
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 05 January 2026
- Location: Brown University, United States
- Field of Study: Urban Planning
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations of Urban Studies
• Introduction to Urban Studies
• Urban History and Development
• Principles of Sociology and Political Science
• Academic Writing and Research Methods
Year 2 – Core Themes and Analysis
• Urban Economics
• Urban Policy and Governance
• Quantitative Methods for Social Research
• Elective: Environmental Sustainability or Urban Design
Year 3 – Applied Research and Fieldwork
• Community Planning and Development
• Housing, Transportation, and Infrastructure
• Internship or Applied Project
• Elective: Global Urban Studies or Urban Geography
Year 4 – Capstone and Integration
• Senior Seminar in Urban Studies
• Independent Research or Capstone Project
• Advanced Topics in Urban Policy and Planning
• Elective: Urban Technology, Public Health, or Social Innovation
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Urban Studies program are well-prepared for careers in city planning, public policy, community development, nonprofit management, real estate, and environmental planning. Many alumni work as urban analysts, policy advisors, program coordinators, or sustainability consultants, addressing challenges in housing, transportation, and social equity. Others pursue positions in research institutions, government agencies, or international organizations, where analytical, quantitative, and planning skills are essential. The program also provides a strong foundation for graduate studies in urban planning, public administration, public policy, architecture, or environmental studies, equipping graduates to influence urban systems, design resilient communities, and address complex social and infrastructural challenges with strategic insight and innovative solutions.
Why Choose This Program
This program combines interdisciplinary study, practical experience, and analytical rigor to provide students with a deep understanding of urban environments and the forces shaping them. Students benefit from mentorship, field-based learning, and opportunities to engage with real-world urban challenges through research and internships. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, policy analysis, and community engagement, preparing graduates to contribute effectively to urban planning, governance, and sustainable development. By integrating theory, practice, and research, the program cultivates the skills, perspective, and creativity needed to analyze, design, and improve cities, equipping students to become thoughtful leaders capable of making a meaningful impact on urban life locally and globally.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 401 863 1000
Email: admissions@brown.edu
Address: University of Brown, Providence, RI 02912, United States
