University of Toronto

Overview

The City Studies program at the University of Toronto delves into the intricate dynamics of urban environments, analyzing how cities are designed, managed, and influenced by a myriad of social, economic, and environmental factors. This program equips students with essential skills in urban analysis and policy development, fostering proficiency in quantitative and spatial methodologies, including Geographic Information Systems (GIS).

• Degree: Honours Bachelor of Arts (HBA) – City Studies
• Duration: 4 years (typical full-time study)
• Credits: 20.0 credits total (typical U of T HBA structure)
• Delivery: On-campus (public university)
• Language of instruction: English

What you'll study

The City Studies HBA encompasses a comprehensive curriculum designed to provide a robust understanding of urban environments. The program includes a blend of core courses and electives across social sciences and geography, with opportunities for hands-on analytical learning.

• Core and foundational courses (examples):
  • Anthropology: Becoming Human
  • Cities and Community Development
  • City Structures and City Choices: Local Government, Management, and Policy Making
  • Money Matters: How Municipal Finance Shapes the City
  • City Issues and Strategies
  • Sociology of Suburbs and Suburbanization
• Analytical and methods learning (examples):
  • Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Empirical Reasoning
  • Statistics for the Social Sciences
• Additional learning areas (examples):
  • Studying Cities
  • Planet Earth
• Capstone / thesis: Confirm the current degree requirements for a culminating project or honours component with the University of Toronto programme page, as requirements can change.

Entry requirements

Potential applicants should be aware of the general prerequisites for admission. While specific GRE or GMAT scores are not required for this program, it is advisable to check with the University of Toronto admissions office for the most accurate entry criteria. A senior level/Grade 12 English course is mandatory for consideration, and an International Baccalaureate Diploma is also accepted, including English HL or SL.

English proficiency requirements (tests accepted):

• IELTS (Academic): 6.5 overall
• TOEFL iBT: 89 overall
• PTE Academic: 65 overall
• Duolingo English Test: 120

Scores and minimums should be confirmed against the official U of T admissions requirements for the most accurate eligibility guidance.

Career prospects

Graduates of the City Studies program are well-prepared for a variety of careers in urban planning, community development, policy analysis, and municipal management. The skills acquired throughout the program enable students to engage effectively in discussions surrounding urban governance and to contribute positively to the transformation of urban spaces. Additionally, graduates may be eligible to apply for a post-study work permit in Canada, providing opportunities to gain valuable work experience in their field after completing their studies.