Overview

The Urban Studies programme at University of California, Irvine (UCI) provides a deep understanding of the complex social, economic, and environmental forces shaping modern cities. Students examine the global challenges of urbanisation while developing the practical analytical skills required to address them effectively in professional settings.

This curriculum is designed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. By focusing on the intricacies of metropolitan life, the programme prepares graduates to contribute meaningfully to the sustainable development and management of urban environments across the globe.

Why Urban Studies at University of California, Irvine (UCI)?

Studying at this institution allows students to benefit from a multidisciplinary approach within the School of Social Ecology. The programme offers a distinctive opportunity to specialise in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), providing technical expertise that is highly valued in modern urban planning and spatial analysis.

The curriculum is supported by the Department of Urban Planning and Public Policy, ensuring that students learn from experts at the forefront of urban research. The location in Southern California serves as a living laboratory for studying diverse urban issues, from transportation infrastructure to community economic development.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 56682 per year
National fee: USD 56682 per year
Local fee: USD 19080 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum requires the completion of twelve core and elective courses. Modules may include:

Urban Studies
Urban Planning and Policy
Cities, Communities, and Urban Problems
History of Cities
Poverty and Change in Developing Countries
Environmental Sustainability
Economics for Planning and Policy
Urban Design
Urban Politics and Policy

Careers with Urban Studies

Graduates are well-equipped for entry-level positions in various sectors dedicated to improving city life and infrastructure. The programme provides a strong foundation for careers in urban planning, community development, and housing administration. Many students also find opportunities within transportation agencies and economic development organisations.

Furthermore, the B.A. serves as an excellent platform for advanced graduate study. Alumni often pursue further qualifications in fields such as regional planning, public policy, or environmental law, leveraging the analytical and spatial skills gained during their undergraduate degree at University of California, Irvine (UCI).

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Urban Planning and Policy

Urban Sociology

History of Cities

Urban and Regional Planning

Poverty and Change in Developing Countries

Environmental Sustainability

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-08-21 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-01 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

115

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

180 alternative credits

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Irvine, United States

Disciplines

Urban Planning View 191 other Bachelors in Urban Planning in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

3.4

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

115

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

You must receive a 3.0 GPA (3.4 for non-California residents) or higher in the 15 required “a-g” subject courses, with no grade lower than a C.

UCI will not consider SAT or ACT scores for admission or scholarship purposes. After enrollment, exams may be used for class placement or some graduation requirements.

Personal Insight Questions (your personal insight questions should be exactly that – personal. This is your opportunity to tell us about yourself, what matters to you, your hopes, ambitions, life experiences, and inspirations. Key points about the personal insight questions include: freshman applicants choose four out of eight questions to answer, each response is limited to a maximum of 350 words. We encourage you to take your time. Be open, be reflective, and be honest. Your personal insight questions provide context for the rest of your application.)

English proficiency requirements

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

56682 USD / year

≈ 56682 USD / year
Out-of-State

56682 USD / year

≈ 56682 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

19080 USD / year

≈ 19080 USD / year

Living costs

Irvine

United States

1560 - 2585 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Urban Studies.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Irvine

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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