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
ShowProspective 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
ShowCurrent students who want to change their major to Urban Studies are required to meet with an Urban Studies advisor, complete the Calculus and Statistics requirements, and submit an Urban Studies application. For advisor contact information, please visit the Urban Studies Admissions website.
Starting on October 1, 2021, Urban Studies will be transitioning to a competitive internal transfer process with a required application. For more details on this transition, please visit their internal transfers admissions page.
Required Courses
ShowVisit 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
ShowUrban 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
Show- 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
