Urban and Regional Studies, Bachelor of Science
Program Overview
The Urban and Regional Studies program provides a comprehensive understanding of urban environments, focusing on design, sustainability, community leadership, and urban management. Students develop analytical and problem-solving skills through core courses and unrestricted electives, preparing them for careers in urban planning, community development, and related fields. A minor is required, and an internship is highly recommended.
Program Outline
Outline:
Major Common Core:
- URBS 100: Introduction to the City (3 credits) - A fresh look at the city, focusing on reasons for growth and strategies for creating livable cities.
- URBS 110: The City: Design and Architecture (3 credits) - Appreciation of the city as a cultural achievement in design and architecture.
- URBS 150: Sustainable Communities (3 credits) - Identification and analysis of global social, economic, political, and environmental problems impacting community viability, exploring various solutions.
- URBS 230: Community Leadership (3 credits) - Introduction to community leadership in various forms (elected, professional, or voluntary) and the skills and values associated with it.
- URBS 401: Foundations in Urban Management and Planning (3 credits) - Survey of the local community, including forces that shape it, importance of democratic participation, and professional practice of local government service.
- URBS 402: Urban Analysis (3 credits) - Development of skills and techniques for formulating questions about urban affairs, organizing and analyzing information to answer them, and presenting findings professionally.
- URBS 489: Capstone Seminar (3 credits) - Synthesis and evaluation of information and opinions to develop a coherent perspective on what makes cities function, preparing students for entry into the professional world of work in urban settings.
Major Unrestricted Electives:
12 credits to be selected from URBS upper-division courses or approved by an advisor. The department highly recommends an internship (URBS 497).
Minor:
Required, any minor.
4-Year Plan:
The provided 4-Year Plan outlines the typical progression of courses for the Urban and Regional Studies program, including general education and elective courses in addition to major requirements.
Minnesota State University, Mankato
Overview:
Minnesota State University, Mankato is a public university located in Mankato, Minnesota. It is known for its supportive community and commitment to providing high-impact educational experiences and real-world opportunities for its students. The university emphasizes its dedication to student success and empowering them to make a positive impact on the world.
Services Offered:
Student Life and Campus Experience:
Students at Minnesota State University, Mankato can expect a vibrant campus life with numerous opportunities for engagement. The university offers a wide range of student organizations, clubs, and activities, including:
Campus Recreation:
Provides opportunities for fitness, recreation, and social interaction.Centennial Student Union:
Serves as a hub for student activities, events, and services.Career Development Center:
Offers resources and support for career exploration, job searching, and professional development.Housing:
Provides various on-campus residence communities for students.Diversity, Equity and Inclusion:
Promotes a welcoming and inclusive environment for all students.Health and Safety:
Offers resources and services to ensure the well-being and safety of students.Key Reasons to Study There:
High-Impact Educational Experiences:
The university provides students with opportunities for real-world learning, research, and community engagement.Real-World Opportunities:
Students have access to internships, job shadowing, and other experiences that prepare them for their chosen careers.Supportive Community:
The university fosters a sense of belonging and provides students with the support they need to succeed.Strong Academic Programs:
Minnesota State University, Mankato offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including specialized accreditations and certifications.National Leader in Undergraduate Research:
The university is recognized for its commitment to undergraduate research and provides students with opportunities to contribute to cutting-edge research.Academic Programs:
Minnesota State University, Mankato offers over 130 undergraduate areas of study and over 75 graduate areas of study. The university also has a strong focus on online and off-campus programs, with over 50 options available.
Other:
- The university has a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, with a dedicated Multicultural Center and LGBT Center.
- Minnesota State University, Mankato has a large alumni network with over 120,000 alumni worldwide.
- The university is a member of the Minnesota State system of colleges and universities.
