Academic Excellence in Urban and Public Affairs

At the Department of Urban and Public Affairs, you'll gain hands-on, real-world experience, learn from engaged faculty and put classroom theory to work in the city itself. Whether you choose Urban Studies, Sustainability, or Peace, Justice and Conflict Transformation, you'll build the analytical and community-based skills to launch careers in municipal government, planning, sustainability, advocacy and beyond.

Explore undergraduate degrees & programs

Students sit in a circle and listen to the orientation leader at the 2019 summer orientation.
Sustainability BA
Design solutions for a changing world. Choose tracks in Policy & Governance, Societal & Urban Systems, or Sustainable Societies and build the skills for careers in planning, policy, business and community leadership.
Multiple law students are listening to the lecture and engaging with the lecture through active attention and taking notes.
Urban Studies (BS)
Understand cities. Improve communities. The BS in Urban Studies prepares you to analyze and solve urban challenges through applied projects and focused study in administration, management, policy, planning and research.
Students sitting around and talking in the SAC.
Peace, Justice & Conflict Resolution (Minor)
Develop the skills to navigate conflict and advance justice. This minor blends theory and practice to prepare you for careers in law, policy, social services, diplomacy and community leadership.
Two students walking in Old Louisville neighborhood, talking.
Sustainability (Minor)
Bring sustainability into your field. This minor strengthens your systems thinking, environmental policy insight and solution-building skills—whether you study business, science, engineering or the arts.
A group of students talking on campus
Peace, Justice and Conflict Transformation (Certificate)
Deepen your understanding of justice and social change. You'll gain practical insight into conflict, peace-building and civic engagement – and a credential that boosts your resume and your path to graduate or professional programs.
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Build Tomorrow's Sustainable Communities Today

Ready to turn your commitment to sustainable cities, equitable policy, and community development into professional impact? Explore Urban and Public Affairs at the University of Louisville — where the Urban Studies bachelor's degree, NASPAA-accredited MPA, and Master of Urban Planning prepare graduates to lead the organizations, governments, and initiatives that shape how communities grow and thrive.