University of San Diego

What you'll study

The Urban Studies degree combines core disciplinary perspectives—sociology, geography, political science, environmental studies and urban planning—to explore how cities work and how they can be improved. You study urban theory, the history of cities, social equity in urban settings, land use and zoning, and urban economics. Practical skills include research methods, qualitative fieldwork, data analysis, and geographic information systems (GIS).

• Core topics: urban theory and history, urban politics and policy, housing and community development, sustainable urbanism.
• Methods and skills: research methods, statistics for social sciences, GIS and spatial analysis, community-based fieldwork.
• Applied learning: practicum or internship with local governments, non-profits or planning agencies, and a senior capstone project synthesising research and practice.
• Electives and interdisciplinarity: students can personalise study with electives in environmental planning, public health, transportation, real estate fundamentals, and social justice topics.

The programme typically sits within the College of Arts and Sciences and is structured to balance general education requirements with major coursework across four years. Students are encouraged to pursue study abroad, certificate programmes, or double majors/minors that complement urban studies, such as political science, environmental studies, economics, or business.

Entry requirements

Admission to the University of San Diego is selective; applicants to the Urban Studies major should present a strong secondary school record demonstrating readiness for university-level work. Typical application materials include a high school transcript, a personal statement, and recommendation letters. Standardised tests may be submitted where applicable; check current university guidance for testing policies. International applicants must meet English-language proficiency requirements with recognised tests or approved alternatives.

Although there is no specialised portfolio requirement for this major, relevant extracurricular experience—such as volunteering with civic organisations, participation in community projects, or coursework in social sciences—strengthens an application. Transfer students should provide college transcripts and may receive credit for relevant coursework or prior experience.

Career prospects

Graduates with a Bachelor’s in Urban Studies go on to careers across the public, private and non-profit sectors. The degree prepares students for roles that require knowledge of urban systems, policy analysis and community engagement.

• Local and regional government: planning technician, policy analyst, housing specialist.
• Non-profit and community organisations: community development coordinator, neighbourhood services manager, advocacy roles.
• Private sector and consulting: municipal consulting, real estate development support, data and GIS technician roles.
• Related fields: transportation planning, environmental sustainability, public health in urban contexts.
• Further study: graduates often pursue master's degrees in urban planning, public policy, social work, law, or environmental planning.

Why study at University of San Diego

The University of San Diego offers an Urban Studies programme with the advantage of a major metropolitan setting. San Diego serves as a living laboratory for studying coastal development, cross-border dynamics, housing affordability, transit and sustainability. The university leverages local partnerships—municipal agencies, regional planning bodies and non-profit organisations—to provide internships and applied learning opportunities.

Students benefit from small class sizes, faculty with interdisciplinary expertise in urban issues, and the university’s emphasis on social justice and ethical leadership. The programme’s practical orientation, combined with opportunities for experiential learning and community engagement, equips graduates with both the analytical tools and hands-on experience valued by employers and graduate programmes.