Urban Studies BA

Examine the complex cultural, governmental, physical, and social ecosystems of the modern city. The Urban Studies program at The New School examines the 21st century's greatest challenges — globalization, urbanization, social justice, and sustainability — with the aim of making cities more viable, equitable, and healthy. The flexible interdisciplinary curriculum allows you to customize your course of study and gain important skills related to policy, planning, and activism.

More than half of the world's population lives in cities, and the majority of work, living, and recreational spaces; cultural institutions; and ethical development and commercial activities exist in the context of cities and their surrounding metropolitan regions. As an Urban Studies student, you explore courses in multiple academic disciplines as you learn to address the myriad ways urbanization affects many facets of life, including politics, social justice, the environment, and the economy. You develop an understanding of the peoples and structures that make up cities both in the United States and internationally. 

Drawing on the expertise of faculty and courses from across the university, you can design a customized academic pathway for your personal interests and goals, exploring issues such as:

• The role of the city in the national and global economy
• How the city shapes and is shaped by cultural life and the natural environment
• The intersection of municipal agencies and nonprofit organizations in areas such as housing and homelessness, health, and social welfare
• How neighborhoods are created, destroyed, and revitalized
• How urban politics reflects these issues and drives change