Metro-Urban Studies
- Overview
Metro-urban studies is the study of cities as social, political, economic and cultural entities. Metro-urban studies brings many different perspectives to the study of urban life. It is an interdisciplinary major where students use the tools of sociology, political science, history, environmental studies, and architecture to understand metropolitan areas in terms of complex relationships that contribute to both opportunities and challenges. The major is designed to utilize the city as our classroom, demonstrating the interplay of theory, policy and lived experience. Metro-urban studies coursework often includes walking tours, field trips and field research. Augsburg College’s metro-urban studies program emphasizes the theme of planning metro areas to be more environmentally sustainable and be places that promote the health and civic engagement of citizens.
The metro-urban studies major helps prepare students for careers and graduate work in urban planning, public administration, environmental studies, government, community organizing, social welfare, and non-profit work, and architecture. All students participate in internships that reflect their career interests as part of the keystone experience.
Many students who major in metro-urban studies double-major in related disciplines such as environmental studies, political science, or sociology. If you’re interested in double-majoring, please consult the director of metro-urban studies about how to best plan your academic schedule to accommodate both majors.
