Urban Studies

Urban Studies at the University of California offers a comprehensive interdisciplinary program designed to equip students with the analytical skills and practical knowledge necessary to understand and address the complex challenges of urban environments. This program explores the social, economic, political, environmental, and spatial dimensions of cities, preparing students for careers in urban planning, policy analysis, community development, environmental management, and related fields. Through a combination of coursework, research projects, and experiential learning opportunities, students gain a deep understanding of urban systems and the factors that influence their growth, sustainability, and equity. The curriculum covers topics such as urban design, transportation, housing, public policy, economics, and environmental sustainability, providing a well-rounded education that emphasizes both theoretical frameworks and real-world applications. Collaborations with local governments, urban agencies, and community organizations allow students to engage with current urban issues and develop practical solutions. The program encourages critical thinking, cultural awareness, and innovative approaches to creating inclusive, resilient, and sustainable cities. Graduates of the Urban Studies program are well-prepared to pursue advanced degrees or enter careers in urban planning, public administration, research institutions, non-profit organizations, and private sector companies focused on urban development and sustainability. With a faculty comprised of leading experts in the field, the program offers rigorous academic training, applied experiences, and opportunities to participate in cutting-edge research. Students are also encouraged to participate in internships, study abroad programs, and community projects that enhance their understanding of urban phenomena across different contexts. Overall, the Urban Studies program at the University of California aims to cultivate knowledgeable and committed urbanists who are equipped to make meaningful contributions toward shaping healthier, more equitable, and sustainable urban environments for the future.

Departmental Requirements

Twelve courses (48 units) as specified below:

Requirements

• If you are a California resident, you must receive a 3.0 GPA or higher in the required “a-g” subjects during grades 10 and 11
• If you are a non-California resident, you must have a minimum 3.4 GPA in the required "a-g" subjects in order to be eligible for the UC System

"A-G" Requirements

The “A-G” requirements, also called Academic Subject Requirements, represent the minimum academic preparation you must meet to be eligible for admission to the University of California.

A. Two years of history/social science — One year of world history, cultures and geography and one year of U.S. history OR one half-year of U.S. history and one half-year of American government or civics 
B. Four years of English 
C. Three years of mathematics (four years recommended) — Must include algebra, geometry, and advanced algebra 
D. Two years of laboratory science (three years recommended) — Must include two of these three subjects: biology, chemistry, and physics 
E. Two years of a language other than English (three years recommended) — The second year or higher of the same language must be completed to fulfill this requirement 
F. One year of visual and performing arts — A yearlong course chosen from the following: dance, drama/theater, music, or visual art 
G. One year of college preparatory electives

Exams Requirement

You must submit college admission test scores from the SAT or the ACT with Writing. Submission of SAT Subject Test scores is not required, but may add positively to the review of your application. For exam requirement details, visit admission.universityofcalifornia.edu.

Other Considerations

The following faculty-approved criteria are also taken into account when reviewing your application.

• Number of, content of, and performance in academic courses completed beyond the University’s minimum eligibility requirements
• Number of and performance in honors and AP courses
• Being identified as “eligible in the local context” by ranking in the top nine percent of your high school class, as determined by the University’s academic criteria
• Quality of your senior year program, as measured by the type and number of academic courses in progress or planned
• Quality of academic performance relative to educational opportunities available at your school
• Outstanding performance in one or more academic subject areas
• Outstanding work on one or more special projects in any academic field
• Recent marked improvement in academic performance
• Special talents, achievements, and awards in a particular field, or experiences that demonstrate unusual promise for leadership or ability to contribute to the intellectual vitality of the campus
• Completion of special projects that offer significant evidence of your special effort and determination or that may indicate special suitability to an academic program on a specific campus
• Academic accomplishments in light of your experiences and circumstances, such as disabilities, low family income, first generation to attend college, need to work, disadvantaged social or educational environment, difficult personal and family situations or circumstances, refugee status or veteran status
• Location of your secondary school and residence, to provide for geographic diversity in the student population and to account for the wide variety of educational environments existing in California

Personal Insight Questions

As of August 1, 2016, applicants will have a greater opportunity to express who they are and what matters to them on their UC Application. New personal insight questions have replaced the two previous personal statement prompts. Key points about the personal insight questions include:

• Freshman applicants will choose four out of eight questions to answer.
• Each response is limited to a maximum of 350 words.

Your personal insight questions should be exactly that - personal. This is your opportunity to tell us about yourself, your hopes, ambitions, life experiences, and inspirations.

We encourage you to take your time. Be open, be reflective, and be honest. Your personal insight questions provide context for the rest of your application.

Meet English proficiency requirements for success.

If you attended four years at a high school or attended another college or university in which the language of instruction is not English, you must provide evidence of English proficiency to be successful in university studies at UCI.

If you have less than three years of instruction in English in the U.S., you must meet the English Language Proficiency Requirement by achieving an acceptable score on any one of the following tests:

• Score 80 or higher on the Internet-based version of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or score 550 or higher on its paper-based version
• Score 3, 4, or 5 on the AP examination in English Language and Composition or English Literature and Composition
• Score 5, 6, or 7 on the IB Higher Level Examination in English (Language A)
• Score 6 or higher on the IB Standard Level Examination in English (Language A)
• Score 6.5 or higher on the International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
• Score 24 or higher on the ACT combined English/Writing or English Language Arts (ELA)
• Score 560 or higher on the old SAT, Writing section, OR score 31 or higher on the SAT Writing and Language Test of the new SAT with Essay

Please note the English Language Proficiency Requirement is waived with one UC transferable English Composition course (not ESL) taken at a regionally accredited U.S. college/university with a grade of C or better.

The University of California offers various financial aid options to support students enrolled in Urban Studies programs across its campuses. These options include federal and state grants, scholarships, work-study programs, and loan opportunities designed to make education accessible and affordable. Federal grants such as the Federal Pell Grant and Federal Work-Study provide need-based assistance, while numerous scholarships are available through university-funded sources, departmental awards, private foundations, and community organizations. Students are encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine eligibility for federal, state, and institutional aid programs. The university also provides loan options, including subsidized and unsubsidized federal Stafford loans, which offer favorable interest rates and repayment terms for eligible students. Additionally, certain programs and departments may offer specific funding opportunities tailored to students pursuing urban studies or related disciplines. Apart from financial aid, students can access part-time employment opportunities on campus, internships, and research assistantships that can supplement their income and enrich their academic experience. International students may have different financial aid options and are advised to consult the university’s international student office for guidance. The university recommends applying early and exploring all available resources to maximize financial support. Furthermore, many students combine multiple forms of aid to cover their total educational expenses, including tuition, fees, books, and living costs. In some cases, students may also consider external scholarships offered by non-profit organizations and government agencies relevant to urban development, planning, and policy studies. Overall, the University of California’s comprehensive financial aid system aims to ensure that students enrolled in Urban Studies programs can focus on their education and career development without undue financial burden.

The Urban Studies program at the University of California offers a comprehensive interdisciplinary education focused on the analysis of urban environments, social dynamics, policy-making, and sustainable development. This program prepares students to understand the complex challenges faced by cities today, including housing, transportation, environmental sustainability, economic development, and social equity. Through coursework that integrates history, sociology, geography, economics, political science, and planning, students gain a multidisciplinary perspective essential for addressing contemporary urban issues.

The curriculum typically includes core courses such as Introduction to Urban Studies, Urban Sociology, Urban Planning, and Urban Policy, along with numerous electives allowing specialization in areas like housing, transportation, environmental planning, or community development. Students are encouraged to engage in research projects, field work, and internships with city agencies, non-profit organizations, or planning firms to gain practical experience. Many programs also emphasize the importance of promoting inclusive and equitable urban environments, preparing graduates for careers in public policy, city planning, community activism, or academic research.

The faculty involved in the Urban Studies program are distinguished scholars and practitioners committed to advancing knowledge and implementing effective solutions for urban problems. The program often collaborates with local governments and urban organizations to provide students with real-world experiences and networking opportunities. Graduation from this program equips students with analytical, communication, and leadership skills necessary for impactful careers in urban development and policy-making.

Additionally, students may have the opportunity to participate in seminars, lectures, and conferences featuring experts in urban issues, fostering a rich academic community. Many graduates pursue advanced degrees or enter the workforce in roles such as urban planners, policy analysts, community organizers, or environmental consultants. The University of California’s Urban Studies program aims to produce well-rounded professionals capable of designing innovative, sustainable, and equitable urban futures.