The minor in Urban and Metropolitan Studies offers students interested in the urban environment the opportunity to explore the wide variety of issues that influence the quality of life in urban communities. Students are encouraged to learn about cities as historical, social, cultural, economic, and political phenomena in order to gain a strong understanding of the complex relationships that contribute to the problems and opportunities of urban living. As the population in the state’s urban areas continues to grow, so will the demand for leaders who are skilled in new and innovative ways with which to address the challenges such growth generates.

The minor allows students enrolled in other undergraduate programs at ASU to broaden their educational experiences. Students from such various disciplines including planning, business, political science, nonprofit management and leadership, communication, social work, geography, and many others might find this program a beneficial supplement to their existing program.

Requirements:
Eighteen (18) hours of coursework with a “C” or better in each course. Nine hours of upper-division coursework from the approved list and twelve hours of residence credit at ASU. Eligibility to pursue the minor requires a major or pre-major other than Urban and Metropolitan Studies.

Students will be able to choose from a variety of Related Urban Topics classes offered by the School of Public Affairs. Possible topics include: Leadership and Change; Leadership and Communication; Policy Analysis and Evaluation; Urban Economics; Political Economy; Computer Applications; Community Building and Development; Regionalism; Poverty and Social Welfare Policy; Comparative Urbanism. In addition, students can choose related courses offered by the School of Public Affairs or other departments. View the approved course list.