Cost & earnings at Augsburg University What students borrow here, and what they go on to earn
The Bachelor’s in Urban Studies at Augsburg University is an interdisciplinary programme that examines cities as social, spatial and political systems. It suits students interested in planning, policy, social justice and the environmental challenges of urban life, combining theoretical study with applied methods and local fieldwork.
This programme combines urban theory, social science methods and spatial practice to investigate how cities are made, governed and experienced. Core subjects typically include urban sociology, urban economics, theories of the city, governance and public policy, housing and social inequality, sustainability and urban ecology, mobility and infrastructure, and urban design principles.
Methodological training is central: students study qualitative and quantitative research methods, GIS and spatial analysis, statistics for social research, and survey and interview techniques. Practical components commonly feature studio or project work, case studies, neighbourhood fieldwork and an internship module that connects theory with practice.
The curriculum usually culminates in a supervised bachelor’s thesis where students pursue an independent research project on an urban topic. Elective modules permit specialisation in areas such as urban regeneration, housing policy, migration and cities, digital urbanism, or environmental planning.
Applicants normally require a university entrance qualification equivalent to the German Abitur. For applicants with foreign qualifications, a recognised secondary-school leaving certificate or completed foundation programme is usually required. Admissions may consider academic transcripts, a motivation statement and any relevant work or volunteer experience.
Proficiency in German is generally required for programmes taught in German; accepted evidence can include TestDaF, DSH or recognised certificates of German language competence. If any modules or tracks are taught in English, proof of English ability (for example IELTS or TOEFL) may be requested for those portions, but the primary language requirement depends on the language of instruction stated in the programme information.
Graduates enter a wide range of careers in the public, private and non-profit sectors. Typical roles include urban planner and planning assistant, policy officer for municipal or regional authorities, housing and community development officer, transport and mobility analyst, GIS and spatial data analyst, neighbourhood/project manager for NGOs, and consultant in urban development or sustainability.
Other career paths lead to research and academic work, positions in international organisations or development agencies, and roles in real estate, environmental consultancy and civic-tech/start-ups that work on urban data and services. Many graduates also progress to specialised master's programmes in urban planning, geography, public policy, social policy or environmental management.
Augsburg University offers urban studies within a regional context rich in planning practice and civic initiatives. The university’s location in a mid-sized Bavarian city provides close access to municipal planning departments, housing associations and local NGOs, facilitating applied projects, internships and fieldwork.
The programme’s interdisciplinary orientation draws on social sciences, geography and environmental studies, and benefits from research-led teaching. Students can expect a learning environment that emphasises applied methods, collaborative projects and opportunities to link theory with on-the-ground urban practice in Augsburg and the surrounding region, while also being within easy reach of larger urban contexts such as Munich.
Shortlist scholarships and plan your application — free guidance from our advisors.