Introduction to Urban Studies

In this course, students will explore the economic, historic, political, and social forces that shape cities and urban life. An emphasis will also be placed upon understanding the cityscape at the human scale, through the study of how people use and transform the spaces where they live, work and play. Through readings, films, discussions, and research, students will become familiar with key concepts in urbanism and how intersections of race/class/gender inform urban experience. Students will conduct fieldwork in neighborhood public spaces (subways, parks, sidewalks, streets), observe community decision making processes, and visit NYC cultural institutions.