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Geography (Urban Studies) ,BS

Geography (Urban Studies), BS

- INACTIVE

Academic programs / Undergraduate degrees / Geography (Urban Studies)

City Planner, Disaster, GIS, General Information Technology, Geographic Information Science, Geographic Information Systems, Geoscience, Planning, Transportation, Urban Planner, Urban Transportation, cities, city, geography, urban

ASU is no longer accepting new students to this program. Please explore Degree Search for other similar program options.


Program description

Geographers' understanding of the modern world stems from their unique spatial perspective. Whether the topic is local or elsewhere in the world, they view it through the twin lenses of space and place.

The urban studies concentration under the BS program in geography applies the tools of geography to the study of urban areas. Students have an opportunity to focus, in particular, on the Phoenix metropolitan area and other rapidly urbanizing regions in arid climates. Tied with geographic information science, the urban studies major brings together both knowledge and skill sets in a powerful way.

At a glance
  • Second language requirement: No
  • First required math course: MAT 142 - College Mathematics
  • Math intensity: Generalprogram math intensity general

Required courses (Major Map)
Concurrent program options
Students pursuing concurrent degrees (also known as a “double major”) earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. Working with their academic advisors, students can create their own concurrent degree combination. Some combinations are not possible due to high levels of overlap in curriculum.
Admission requirements

General university admission requirements:

All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.
First-year | Transfer | International | Readmission

Tuition information
When it comes to paying for higher education, everyone’s situation is different. Students can learn about ASU tuition and financial aid options to find out which will work best for them.
Transfer options

ASU is committed to helping students thrive by offering tools that allow personalization of the transfer path to ASU. Students may use MyPath2ASU® to outline a list of recommended courses to take prior to transfer.

ASU has transfer partnerships in Arizona and across the country to create a simplified transfer experience for students. These pathway programs include exclusive benefits, tools and resources, and they help students save time and money in their college journey.

Global opportunities
Global experience

With over 250 programs in more than 65 countries (programs vary in length, from one week to one year), study abroad is possible for all ASU students who wish to acquire global skills and knowledge in preparation for a 21st century career. Students earn ASU credit for completed courses, while staying on track for graduation, and they may apply financial aid and scholarships toward program costs. https://goglobal.asu.edu/

Career opportunities

Students successfully completing the Bachelor of Science program in geography with a concentration in urban studies pursue employment with city planning agencies as well as other government entities at various levels (county, state and federal). The urban studies concentration, especially when combined with a focus on geographic information science, gives graduates an advantage in careers that combine urban planning with geographic information science and in other jobs dealing with urban issues, including:

  • economic development planning
  • geographic information science databases for city governments
  • housing issues
  • sustainable planning
  • transportation
Contact information
What are accelerated programs?
Accelerated programs allow students the opportunity to expedite the completion of their degree.

3 year programs

These programs allow students to fast-track their studies after admission and earn a bachelor's degree in three years or fewer while participating in the same high-quality educational experience of a 4-year option. Students should talk to their academic advisor to get started.

Accelerated master's

These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).

Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master’s during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
What are concurrent programs?
Concurrent degrees allow students to pursue their own personal or professional interests, earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. To add a concurrent degree to your existing degree, work with your academic advisor.
What are joint programs?
Joint programs, or jointly conferred degrees, are offered by more than one college and provide opportunities for students to take advantage of the academic strengths of two academic units. Upon graduation, students are awarded one degree and one diploma conferred by two colleges.

What constitutes a new program?
ASU adds new programs to Degree Search frequently. Come back often and look for the “New Programs” option.
What are online programs?
ASU Online offers programs in an entirely online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. See https://asuonline.asu.edu/ for more information.
What is the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE)?
The Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) is a program in which residents of western states (other than Arizona) may be eligible for reduced nonresident tuition. See more information and eligibility requirements on the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) program.

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