Urban Studies and Public Policy, B.S.

Mission

The major in urban studies and public policy is designed to prepare students for careers in public service or private corporations involved in public issues. Career paths include government, law, city planning, non-profit management and public policy analysis. The curriculum explores urban issues in real estate development, transportation, land use and housing that focuses on finding solutions to inner-city problems such as unemployment, poverty and crime.

Student Learning Outcomes

• Understand the relationship between the urban environment and human behavior.
• Identify the causes and effect of urban problems.
• Quantify the costs and benefits of public programs in order to conduct rational policy analysis.
• Propose practical solutions to social problems.
• Communicate complex policy issues in a clear and concise manner both orally and in writing.
• Influence the political process by explaining policy solutions to both public officials and the general public.

Programs/Opportunities

Students are offered the opportunity to gain practical experience in community affairs by working with:

• Dillard University Community Development Corporation (CDC). The Dillard CDC - a non-profit corporation involved in urban revitalization by offering city planning services to the community, as well as offering homebuyer training and financial assistance to residents interested in purchasing or renovating homes in the Dillard neighborhood.