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Urban Studies

Major in the College of Liberal Arts

Urban Studies is an interdisciplinary undergraduate program that combines classroom studies with real-world experience in the Austin metropolitan area.

If you are curious about how cities are physically put together, the history of urbanization, the conflict and creativity that pervades urban life, the economic factors that affect urban growth and development, or the political dynamics shaping urban governance, you will find a home for your interests in urban studies. The urban studies major is also a great way to launch a socially and environmentally relevant career. You will be introduced to methods and theories that support constructive solutions to pressing problems such as poverty and homelessness, racial segregation, pollution, and inefficient transportation.

Declaration Requirements

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Prospective University of Texas at Austin students should visit UT Admissions to learn about the application process and how to declare a major.

How to Declare

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Current students who want to change their major to Urban Studies must apply for internal transfer. For advisor contact information, please visit the Urban Studies Advising website.

Required Courses

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Visit the Urban Studies degree plan to view all required courses for the Urban Studies major in the College of Liberal Arts. View course descriptions of current Urban Studies courses.

Personality

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Urban Studies students are passionate, driven, and self-directed. To successfully complete the internship experience and the research project required, Urban Studies students need to be comfortable taking initiative.

Skills

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  • Research and analysis
  • Excellent written skills
  • Self-inquiry and motivation
  • Ability to work in collaborative environments
  • Real world experience in an urban studies-related field
  • Ability to to articulate ideas and concepts to a wide range of audiences
MAJOR ≠ CAREER

Your major does not always determine your career path. Many graduates pursue careers outside their field, depending on their interests and experiences.

EXPERIENCE + DEGREE = CAREER

It’s not just your major that matters! Make yourself marketable by gaining a variety of experiences in college. Read a few inspiring stories by professionals whose experiences led to great careers.

Contact a Texas Career Engagement career counselor today to find out how you can turn your major into a career.