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Metropolitan Studies

Program Information

Why Major in Metropolitan Studies?

The metropolitan studies major offers students the opportunity to explore the complexity of metropolitan regions in the United States as well as overseas. The program is built around an interdisciplinary approach to understanding the physical, social, economic and political factors that shape metropolitan areas. By integrating the perspectives of different academic disciplines, students gain a thorough understanding of the complex historical development of metropolitan areas, as well as the root causes of the contemporary problems and opportunities facing these areas.

We offer courses that are intellectually stimulating and, at the same time, socially relevant. as students examine contemporary challenges like sprawl, economic development, or the myriad social and political issues facing the modern metropolis, they are introduced to innovative policy solutions to these challenges, and are encouraged to think creatively about how to solve the problems of the metropolis.

The program benefits tremendously from a first-rate faculty of sociologists, geographers, political scientists, economists and historians well versed in the issue of metropolitan areas. the program also benefits significantly from Towson's location. The Baltimore/Washington area provides an ideal "laboratory" for students of metropolitan areas.

Career

As with other liberal arts majors, metropolitan studies graduates are prepared for a wide range of professions and post-graduate endeavors. With over 70 percent of the nation's population living in metropolitan areas, there are many opportunities for program graduates. Metropolitan studies majors are well prepared for careers in the public, private and nonprofit sectors in areas such as urban planning, public policy analysis, real estate, public administration, community development, community organizing, economic development and related fields.

Majors are also well prepared for graduate programs in urban planning, public administration, public policy, and related fields. Some of our graduates have already gone on to graduate programs in urban planning, community development and law.