Urban Studies

Dive into the complexities of city life with Leiden University’s Bachelor of Arts in Urban Studies. This three-year, full-time program equips you with a comprehensive understanding of urban challenges and opportunities from a variety of social science, humanities, and legal perspectives.

Unveil the City Layers: Explore the intricate layers that shape contemporary cities. Examine issues of urban planning, sustainability, social justice, cultural diversity, and economic development. Learn how these factors interact to create vibrant, yet often complex, urban environments.

Interdisciplinary Approach: Transcend traditional academic boundaries. The program integrates knowledge from disciplines such as sociology, history, geography, anthropology, law, and environmental science, providing you with a holistic understanding of urban issues.

Develop Critical Thinking: Hone your critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Learn to analyze urban challenges, evaluate policy solutions, and develop innovative approaches to creating more sustainable, equitable, and livable cities.

Emphasis on Research: Gain valuable research experience through coursework and potential independent research projects. Learn to gather and analyze data, formulate research questions, and communicate your findings effectively.

Global Perspective: The program fosters a global perspective on urban development. Explore case studies from cities around the world, and gain an understanding of the diverse challenges and opportunities faced by urban centers across the globe.

Fieldwork and Real-World Learning: Apply your theoretical knowledge to real-world situations. Engage in field trips, case studies, and potential internship opportunities, allowing you to connect with urban professionals and gain practical experience.

This program is ideal for students with a keen interest in cities, social issues, and sustainability. Graduates emerge well-equipped for diverse careers, including:

• Urban planning and development
• Urban policy analysis
• Social work in urban communities
• Housing and community development
• Environmental consulting
• Research and academia (focusing on urban issues)
• Non-profit organizations working on urban challenges