Minor in Urban Studies

One of BU’s newest programs, the Minor in Urban Studies, seeks young urban enthusiasts eager to broaden their horizons through exposure to multidisciplinary urban courses. From the myriad of cultures, people, and economic opportunities that exist in cities to the nuts and bolts of what makes cities sustainable and attractive places to be, this minor is a holistic look at what students need to pursue careers in 21st-century urban centers.

The Minor in Urban Studies is designed for students interested in applying their passions for urban topics to a curriculum that prepares them for careers involving the opportunities and challenges that cities present, both in the United States and around the world. Students have the opportunity to take a wide array of courses that provide an interdisciplinary approach to understanding urban issues. Varying urban perspectives are offered through social, political, economic, and environmental lenses through urban studies minor classes.

Seniors minoring in Urban Studies are eligible to apply for the Initiative on Cities Student Prize.

Minor Requirements

A total of six (4-credit) courses are required, all completed with a grade of C or higher.

• At least ONE must pertain to Physical Infrastructure or Urban Environment topics.
• At least ONE must pertain to Social, Economic and Political topics.
• The six total courses must come from at least THREE different departments.

All rules pertaining to CAS majors will apply, including a limit of no more than four MET courses to be counted per student toward a degree from CAS. After Fall 2022, Students will no longer be able to count MET classes towards a minor.

In addition to meeting the course requirements, students are strongly encouraged to attend one lunch discussion each semester hosted by the Initiative on Cities. These sessions will be specially scheduled and open only to those in the minor, with the goal of creating a cohort and fostering relationships among interested students and between students and the Initiative. Students will also be invited to all Initiative events, conferences and seminars.

Please direct questions and advising appointments to Associate Professor Katherine Levine Einstein, Director of Undergraduate Studies in Political Science, at kleinst@bu.edu.