Overview
The Urban Studies programme at the University of British Columbia offers a comprehensive exploration of the historical and intellectual threads of global urbanisation. Students gain the essential tools required to influence modern urban development while addressing complex societal challenges through critical analysis.
This degree prepares individuals to understand and shape the future of urban regions, where the majority of global population growth is projected to occur. The curriculum integrates technical data analysis with development finance strategies and policy-oriented communication to prepare graduates for impactful roles in city planning.
Why Urban Studies at the University of British Columbia?
Students benefit from a unique partnership between the Geography and Urban Planning departments, both of which are highly respected across Canada. This collaboration ensures a multidisciplinary approach to learning that combines theoretical knowledge with practical, real-world applications.
The Vancouver campus serves as a living laboratory, allowing students to learn alongside professionals and community members who are actively shaping the region. The programme focuses on five distinctive areas of expertise: environment, technology, indigeneity, globalisation, and social equity.
Experiential learning is a core component of the student experience, featuring community-engaged projects and a dedicated capstone. Optional co-op placements are also available, providing opportunities to forge professional networks and gain relevant industry experience before graduation.
Tuition Fee Breakdown
- International fee: CAD 49434 per year
- National fee: CAD 9797 per year
Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.
Syllabus
The curriculum is structured to provide a deep understanding of urban patterns and processes. Modules may include:
Year 2
- Cities
- City-Making: A Global Perspective
- Methods of Community Engagement
- City Visuals
- Geographic Information Science
Year 3
- The Just City in a Divided World
- Globalization, Cities, and Regions
- Research Strategies in Geography
- Community Planning in a World of Diversity
- Urban Environmental Politics
- Indigeneity and the City
- Green Cities
- Urban Worlds
- Culture, Nature, and Coloniality in Latin America
Year 4
- Urban Studies Capstone I
- Urban Studies Capstone II
Careers with Urban Studies
Graduates are prepared for diverse professional roles across multiple sectors including urban and regional planning, government, and research consulting. The skills acquired during the programme are highly valued in real estate development, environmental design, and social policy coordination.
Many alumni pursue successful careers in city administration, community organisation, and economic development. Additionally, the degree provides a strong foundation for those seeking further training in law, education, business, or environmental advocacy and social justice.
Programme Structure
Areas of study include:
- Indigenous Urban Life
- The Nature of Cities
- Globalizing Cities
- Technology and Cities
- Cities and Communities
Key information
Duration
- Full-time
- 48 months
Start dates & application deadlines
- Starting
- Apply before
-
Language
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Credits
Delivered
Campus Location
- Vancouver, Canada
Disciplines
Urban Planning View 27 other Bachelors in Urban Planning in CanadaWhat students do after studying
Academic requirements
We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.
English requirements
Prepare for Your English Test
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
- To be admitted to UBC, you must successfully meet the general admission requirements that apply to all applicants, as well as the degree-specific requirements that depend on which country you’re applying from and what degree(s) you’re applying to.
- English is the language of instruction at UBC. All prospective students must demonstrate English-language competency prior to admission. There are nine different ways to meet the English Language Admission Standard.
Student Insurance via Studyportals Partner
Make sure to cover your health, travel, and stay while studying abroad. Even global coverages can miss important items like Additional medical costs, Repatriation, Liability etc. Make sure your student insurance covers your needs.
Studyportals partnered with Aon to provide you with the best affordable student insurance, for a carefree experience away from home.
Get your student insurance nowStarting from €0.53/day, free cancellation any time.
Remember, countries and universities may have specific insurance requirements. To learn more about how student insurance work at University of British Columbia and/or in Canada, please visit Student Insurance Portal.
Tuition Fees
-
International Applies to you
Applies to youNon-residents49434 CAD / year≈ 49434 CAD / year -
Domestic Applies to you
Applies to youCitizens or residents9797 CAD / year≈ 9797 CAD / year
Living costs
Vancouver
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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