The urban studies major is directed toward students who are interested in urbanization and interdisciplinary perspectives on the problems of city life. The program combines a sound theoretical and experiential base complemented by a broad range of technical competencies. A third, additional skills portion will provide students with tools which will enable them to make an effective contribution to research or management. The Urban Studies Program is home to Macalester's Action Research initiative and strongly endorses Service Learning.
Most courses listed in the major have action research or service learning components.
A major concentration in urban studies will consist of 14 courses distributed in the following manner. Each urban studies major will complete a core in either economics, history, geography, political science or sociology. This core will be supplemented by at least six courses from the following list excluding courses taken as a part of the core. Students will be encouraged to take other courses on the list. Consult departmental listings for information on course frequency.