Bachelor of Science in Urban Studies

The goal of the Bachelor of Science in Urban Studies degree in the School of Planning is to introduce undergraduate students to the general knowledge required by the planning profession, as well as to ground students in the liberal arts. This four-year program of study prepares students for employment in metropolitan areas and organizations and for graduate work in urban studies, law, management, community planning, public administration and the social sciences. It is intended for students with an interest in studying about cities and urban life but who do not aspire to careers as planners.

The other programs of the School of Planning, however, prepare students from a variety of backgrounds for careers in the professional practice of planning and various allied fields at the entry level (Bachelors), the more advanced level (Masters), and the mid-career level (Accelerated Masters). Preparation for academic planning careers is offered through the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Regional Development Planning. All professional programs in the School of Planning are accredited by the Planning Accreditation Board (PAB), which qualifies graduates to apply for the American Institute of Certifi ed Planners (AICP) Examination. The School of Planning is one of four schools within DAAP (the College of Design, Architecture, Art, and Planning), and DAAP is one of fifteen colleges within the University of Cincinnati.

About the Program

The Urban Studies program provides students with a flexible but organized way of preparing to be productive participants in contemporary urban life. This baccalaureate degree prepares students for employment in metropolitan areas and organizations and for graduate work in urban studies, law, management, community planning, public administration, and the social sciences.

The four-year Urban Studies program is a broad-based pre-professional program, leading to a Bachelor of Science degree. The program focuses on a critical examination of urban life and its issues. An urban orientation is instilled through a 30-credit hour concentration in Urban Studies group electives complemented by selected courses in Planning. Critical analysis is developed in research methods courses, a formal undergraduate thesis, and a capstone seminar.