The Program

The program combines core coursework in urban studies, public policy and research methods taught by USF faculty, complemented by elective courses offered by prominent practitioners in the field.

It includes an innovative community-based research requirement, which gives students direct experience with conducting applied urban research, analyzing policy alternatives and working extensively with community-based organizations. All students complete a Capstone Project and Internship, by which they develop expertise in particular areas of urban policy and build personal and career networks.

The two-year, 48-unit program is comprised of seven Required Courses and four Elective Courses. All courses are 4 units, except where noted below. A professional Urban Affairs Internship (4 units) is completed either in the summer or second year (internship can be waived with prior work experience). The Urban Affairs program culminates in a Master’s Capstone Project.

Required Courses

• History of Urbanism Seminar
• Policy Analysis Seminar
• Urban Politics and Sociology Seminar
• Research Methods in Urban Affairs
• Community-Based Research Seminar
• Research Prospectus
• Urban Affairs Internship
• Master’s Capstone Project

Elective Courses (select 4 courses)

• Public Policy Process
• Non-Profits and Public Policy
• Race, Organizing and Policy Advocacy: Community Strategies for Urban Power
• Global Cities
• Critical Issues in Globalization, Sustainability and Social Justice
• Urban Political Economy
• Public Finance and Fiscal Management
• Nonprofit Administration
• Urban and Regional Planning
• Non-Profits and Philanthropy
• Urban Politics in San Francisco
• Policy Theme Classes
• Directed Study

Sample Timeline