Urban Studies - Cities in Comparative and Historical Perspective Stanford University

Overview

The Urban Studies - Cities in Comparative and Historical Perspective at Stanford University offers a comprehensive exploration of the world’s rapidly growing urban populations. This concentration provides students with the analytical tools to understand complex urban issues through a global and historical lens.

As more than half of the global population now resides in urban areas, this programme addresses the necessity of studying cities beyond the context of a single nation. By integrating diverse perspectives, students gain a deeper comprehension of how urban environments shape cultures, states, and individual lives.

The curriculum draws on a wide range of academic disciplines to provide a holistic view of the urban experience.

Why Urban Studies - Cities in Comparative and Historical Perspective at Stanford University?

Stanford University provides a unique environment for urban research, offering students access to specialised advising from expert faculty. The programme emphasises the importance of placing urban issues in perspective to better understand both the United States and the wider world.

A distinctive feature of this concentration is the strong encouragement for students to participate in off-campus and overseas study. Many participants spend at least one quarter abroad, taking advantage of the university's extensive global network and international internship opportunities.

Students can also benefit from the Stanford Global Seminars, which are intensive courses taught in various international locations. These programmes allow for immersive learning experiences that fulfil the community-engaged learning requirements essential to the degree.

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:

• Capitals: How Cities Shape Cultures, States, and People
• Silicon Valley
• Body and Environment
• Art in the Metropolis
• Japanese Modern Architecture
• Clean Water Now! Urban Water Conflicts
• Pompeii
• The Greeks
• The Romans
• Design of Cities
• Human Society and Environmental Change
• The United States in the Twentieth Century
• Illustrating the Past: History as graphic non-fiction
• Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka and Beyond: Place in Modern Japan
• Urban Regeneration
• Ethnic, Groups, Ethnic Relations and Identities
• Walking and Writing Paris
• Post Colonial Paris
• Writing in the City: Why New York Makes Great Writers
• Urban Culture in Global Perspective
• Ancient Urbanism
• Making History in Silicon Valley
• Visualizing the Past: Images of the Market Street Chinatown

Careers with Urban Studies - Cities in Comparative and Historical Perspective

Graduates from this programme are prepared for a variety of professional paths and further academic pursuits. The multidisciplinary nature of the course equips students with critical thinking and research skills applicable to numerous sectors.

Common destinations for alumni include graduate school, service years, and professional roles in urban-focused industries. The department provides dedicated resources to help students transition from their studies into impactful careers or advanced research roles.