Urban Studies & Planning

The Urban Studies and Planning (USP) Program offers a major (B.A.) and minor that features an interdisciplinary curriculum for students interested in creating more just, inclusive, and equitable cities. Through a curriculum grounded in the social sciences, the Urban Studies program offers an applied, problem-solving focus, training in research methods, and practical hands-on experience in a carefully supervised internship and a practicum (senior seminar). 

Core courses integrate social science, planning and policy perspectives into the study of cities; develop the research and analytic tools necessary for urban planning and policy analysis; and offer hands-on applied research experience. Elective courses are designed to apply the basic core course content to urban planning and policy areas of interest.

The B.A. in Urban Studies and Planning prepares students for a wide range of careers in urban planning, administration, and community development. It is also recognized as a solid basis for graduate study in city and regional planning and other fields, including law, architecture, social work, and public health. The minor is designed to complement a wide range of SF State majors by offering students an opportunity to develop competence in urban planning and policy.