Shape Cities, Accelerate Your Future, and Build the Degree That Fits Your Interests
At San Francisco State University, we believe your education should empower you to lead change, not just earn a diploma. Our Urban Studies & Planning (USP) program offers more than just a major — it is a launchpad for public service, policy innovation, and community impact.
Whether you're drawn to solving urban challenges like housing, poverty, pollution, or you're ready to fast-track your graduate degree, SFSU has a path for you:
- California Community College, Students: Your Pathway to Public Service Starts Here, with USP’s ADT Pathways
- Earn Two Degrees Faster: Accelerate your academic journey with the USP + MPA SF State Scholars Program.
- Customize Your USP Degree to Match Your Academic and Career Goals
Explore your future at SFSU — where your degree is just the beginning. Contact pace@sfsu.edu or a USP faculty advisor for more information.
Your Pathway to Public Service Starts Here!
Want to help shape the future of cities? SF State’s B.A. in Urban Studies and Planning (USP) social science, policy, and hands-on experience to tackle challenges like housing, poverty, and pollution. You will learn how to build equitable, inclusive communities - and graduate ready to lead change. The USP degree opens doors to careers where you can make a real difference, whether in government agencies, nonprofit organizations, advocacy initiatives, or for-profit companies.
If you're coming from a California Community College, you're already on the right track. Our Associate Degree for Transfer (ADT) pathways make it easier than ever to transition smoothly and graduate on time. With at least 60 transferable units, you will be just two years away from earning your bachelor's degree. Choose from four ADT options:
- AS-T in Sociology
- AA-T in Political Science
- AA-T in Social Justice Studies
- AA-T in Law, Public Policy, and Society
- Streamlined transfer process
- Interdisciplinary curriculum with real-world impact
- Supportive faculty and advising
- Commitment to equity, sustainability, and social justice
Learn more about USP’s ADT Pathways, including roadmaps for degree completion.
Earn Two Degrees — Faster — with SF State Scholars
Ready to accelerate your future? The SF State Scholars Program lets you earn both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in less time, saving you money and launching your career sooner.
This unique program allows motivated undergraduates to begin graduate-level coursework during their junior and senior years. That means:
- Earn graduate credit while still an undergraduate student
- Early access to mentorship and career-building opportunities
- A streamlined path to your master’s degree
- Launch your career with confidence
If you are passionate about building better communities, the Urban Studies and Planning B.A. (USP) + Master of Public Administration (MPA) combination is a powerful choice. You will gain hands-on experience and policy expertise to tackle real-world challenges: from housing and equity to sustainability and urban design.
This accelerated track prepares you for leadership roles in:
- Government agencies
- Nonprofit organizations
- Advocacy and community development
Check out the SF Scholars roadmap for completing both degrees.
Customize Your Urban Studies & Planning Degree
At SFSU, your Urban Studies & Planning (USP) major isn’t one-size-fits-all — it’s built around you. Whether you're passionate about housing justice, sustainable development, or community advocacy, you can tailor your coursework to match your interests and career goals.
With USP, you choose:
- Policy or Planning Focus – Dive deep into urban policy or explore the tools of city planning.
- Domestic or Global Lens – Study cities close to home or explore urban challenges around the world.
- Electives That Work for You – Build a package of electives that makes you competitive for the job you want.
USP offers a rich mix of electives, some taught directly by USP faculty; others in collaboration with departments like:
- Geography
- History
- Political Science
- Sociology
You can also choose from a wide range of approved electives across campus to expand your perspective and skill set. Explore the full list of electives and degree requirements
By customizing your USP degree, you will graduate with:
- A clear focus aligned with your career goals
- Interdisciplinary skills employers value
- A competitive edge in fields like planning, policy, advocacy, and community development