Overview

The Urban Studies programme at Stanford University offers an interdisciplinary approach to understanding the multifaceted nature of modern metropolitan environments. Students examine how the physical landscape influences human behaviour while developing strategies to address critical social issues within global urban centres.

This undergraduate major encourages scholars to investigate the historical and contemporary forces that shape cities and suburbs. By integrating diverse academic perspectives, the curriculum provides the analytical tools necessary to evaluate complex challenges such as urban poverty, housing instability, and educational reform in various communities.

Participants in the programme benefit from a flexible learning structure that bridges the gap between theoretical research and professional practice.

Why Urban Studies at Stanford University?

Choosing this programme allows students to study within the prestigious School of Humanities and Sciences, benefiting from a rich tradition of interdisciplinary excellence. The university provides a unique environment where building design, human culture, and political systems are studied in a collaborative and innovative setting.

The curriculum is distinguished by its focus on social innovation and entrepreneurship, preparing students to become impactful leaders in their chosen fields. With access to specialised introductory seminars and a wealth of research resources, learners can tailor their academic journey to suit their specific interests in urban affairs.

Furthermore, the programme emphasises the importance of real-world experience, ensuring that academic concepts are tested against the realities of modern city life. This practical focus, combined with the university's global reputation, provides a robust foundation for those seeking to influence the future of the built environment.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 22577 per semester
National fee: USD 22577 per semester
Local fee: USD 21709 per semester

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

Syllabus

Modules may include:

Urban Studies
Urban Underclass
Urban Design: Contemporary Urban Design in Theory and Practice
VIP: Very Impactful People - Social Innovation & the Social Entrepreneur

Careers with Urban Studies

Graduates are prepared for diverse professional pathways across multiple sectors, including public service, management, and social entrepreneurship. The skills acquired during the programme are highly relevant for roles involving economic and political systems, as well as environmental and energy policy development.

Many alumni pursue careers in building and design, urban planning, or community advocacy, working to solve intractable social problems. The interdisciplinary nature of the degree also opens opportunities in non-profit organisations, government agencies, and private firms focused on sustainable urban growth and human behaviour.

Programme Structure

Courses included:

Environmental Justice in the Bay Area

Exploring Urbanism in San Francisco: Three Urban Adventures to Better Understand Cities.

The Origins of the Modern American City, 1865-1920

The Detective and the City

Capital or Community: Housing Inequality in the Bay Area

Public Service Internship Preparation

Social and Urban Development in Beijing: Field Observation & Service Learning

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-19 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-05 00:00:00

Language

English

Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Stanford, United States

Disciplines

Urban Planning View 193 other Bachelors in Urban Planning in United States

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

We are not aware of any English requirements for this programme.

Other requirements

General requirements

Coalition Application or Common Application
$90 nonrefundable application fee or fee waiver request
ACT or SAT (Writing/Essay not required) (refer to testing for score reporting policies)
School Report and counselor letter of recommendation
Official transcript(s)
Letters of recommendation from two teachers
Midyear transcript (by February 15)
Standardized testing is one of the application requirements that can highlight academic preparedness. There are no minimum test scores required to be admitted to Stanford, and there is no score that guarantees admission. At Stanford, we review applications holistically, meaning every component of the application is valuable to us as we get to know each student.

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

67731 USD / year

≈ 67731 USD / year
Out-of-State

67731 USD / year

≈ 67731 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

67731 USD / year

≈ 67731 USD / year

Additional Details

Tuition per quarter. Students are typically enrolled in classes for three quarters: autumn, winter, spring.

Living costs

Stanford

United States

1100 - 1600 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.

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