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
Major requirements
Minor requirements
Interdisciplinary Excellence
Urban Studies is part of The New School's suite of cross-college, interdisciplinary undergraduate programs, which includes Global Studies, Environmental Studies, and Urban Studies. These interdisciplinary programs are designed to prepare students for the new careers of the 21st century.
Connecting to New York City
While it offers the atmosphere and intimacy of a small college, Eugene Lang College is part of The New School, a major progressive university in New York City. With a focus on the study of cities, Urban Studies students engage with NYC as a living laboratory for experiential learning, field-based research, university-community partnerships, internships, and immersive learning building on existing and expanding relationships with community organization, employers, and government agencies.
Career Paths
Our flexible and interdisciplinary Urban Studies curriculum provides a strong foundation for graduate study and exciting careers in community organizing, development, public policy, urban planning, management, advocacy, arts, education, journalism, or law.
Consult our 4-Year Lang Career Pathways Map (PDF) for helpful steps and resources to link your academic journey to your future plans. If you are planning to pursue graduate studies, consider applying to the Bachelor's-Master's program, which enables you to earn graduate credits that will apply to both your Lang degree and a master's degree in Public and Urban Policy or in Environmental Policy and Sustainability Management at the university's Schools of Public Engagement.
Outcomes at Lang