Overview

The Urban Studies B.A. at the University of Minnesota provides a multidisciplinary foundation for understanding the complex social, political, and environmental challenges facing modern metropolitan areas. Students engage with diverse urban issues while developing the analytical tools necessary to shape the future of global cities.

Why Urban Studies at the University of Minnesota?

The programme is housed within the College of Liberal Arts, offering a robust curriculum that blends theoretical knowledge with practical skills. Students benefit from a flexible framework that allows for specialisation in areas such as international development, infrastructure, or social analysis. The curriculum is specifically designed to foster core career competencies, including critical thinking, creative problem-solving, and the ability to communicate effectively with diverse urban populations. Furthermore, the B.A. track emphasises global perspectives by integrating a second language requirement, preparing graduates for the internationalised nature of modern urban planning and policy.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 41512 per year
National fee: USD 41512 per year
Local fee: USD 18626 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum is structured around core introductory requirements and specialised tracks. Modules may include:

Introduction to Urban Studies: The Complexity of Metropolitan Life
Social and Cultural Analysis of Urban Life
Urban Political Economy
Urban Infrastructure and Environment
International Urban Issues
Land Use and Community Power Structures
New Economic Development
Environmental and Health Hazards
Globalisation and Society

Careers with Urban Studies

Graduates from the University of Minnesota find success across various sectors, particularly in government, law, and non-profit advocacy. The programme prepares students for roles that require a deep understanding of metropolitan dynamics and policy frameworks. Common career paths include:

City and Regional Planner
Transportation Planner
Housing Inspector or Case Manager
Neighborhood Coordinator
Research Manager
Environmental Policy Researcher
Real Estate Research Analyst
Business Systems Analyst

Many alumni also pursue advanced qualifications, such as a Master of Urban and Regional Planning (MURP) or degrees in Public Administration and Social Work, to further their professional impact in urban environments.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Urban Studies Workshop

A Suburban World

Social Change in Modern China

Geography of the Twin Cities

Theory in Action: Community Engagement in a Social Justice Framework

Cartography

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-08 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-01 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

110

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TOEFL^® IBT

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PTE Academic

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Minneapolis, United States

Disciplines

Urban Planning View 191 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

Duolingo English Test

110

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

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

Completed Application for Admission

$55 U.S. non-refundable application fee

Self-Reported Academic Record: High school (9th-12th grade) courses and grades

English proficiency test scores (Required)

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

41512 USD / year

≈ 41512 USD / year
Out-of-State

41512 USD / year

≈ 41512 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

18626 USD / year

≈ 18626 USD / year

Living costs

Minneapolis

United States

1130 - 2045 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

Minneapolis

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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