BA in Urban Studies

Course Overview:

The BA in Urban Studies explores urbanization, city planning, and community development. Students analyze socio-economic trends, design sustainable environments, and study policies affecting urban areas. The program combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills for addressing contemporary urban challenges.

Duration:
The BA Urban Studies course typically spans 3 years and is divided into 6 semesters.

Syllabus:
BA in Urban Studies is an interdisciplinary course that focuses on the study of urban development, city planning, public policy, and the social, economic, and environmental challenges faced by urban areas. It equips students with analytical tools to understand and address urban issues such as housing, transportation, sustainability, and urban governance. Below is a typical semester-wise breakdown:

Semester 1:

  • Introduction to Urban Studies

  • Urban Sociology

  • Urban Planning Principles

  • Language Paper 1

  • Elective: Urban Geography

Semester 2:

  • Urban Governance and Public Policy

  • Sustainable Cities and Development

  • Housing and Infrastructure in Cities

  • Language Paper 2

  • Elective: Introduction to Urban Design

Semester 3:

  • Urban Economics

  • Urban Social Movements and Civic Engagement

  • Environmental Challenges in Cities

  • Research Methods in Urban Studies 1

  • Elective: Smart Cities and Technology

Semester 4:

  • Comparative Urbanism (Global Perspectives)

  • Urbanization and Migration

  • Research Methods in Urban Studies 2 (Fieldwork)

  • Transportation and Mobility in Urban Areas

  • Elective: Urban Poverty and Inequality

Semester 5:

  • Public Health and Urban Spaces

  • Urban Development and Infrastructure Projects

  • Climate Change and Urban Sustainability

  • Project/Dissertation Work

  • Elective: Urban Regeneration and Renewal

Semester 6:

  • Urban Policy and Governance in India

  • Future Cities and Innovation in Urban Development

  • Real Estate and Urban Development

  • Project/Dissertation Presentation

  • Elective: Global Cities and Urban Futures

Average Fees:
The average fees for BA in Urban Studies in India range between INR 30,000 to INR 1,50,000 per year, depending on the institution and location.

Exams to Attend:

  • Admission to BA in Urban Studies is usually merit-based, although some institutions may require entrance exams such as CUET or institutional-specific tests.

Top 10 Ranking Institutions in India for BA Urban Studies (Combined Rankings):

  1. Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi

  2. Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), Mumbai

  3. Azim Premji University, Bangalore

  4. Delhi University (DU), New Delhi

  5. Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi

  6. Jadavpur University, Kolkata

  7. Presidency University, Kolkata

  8. Christ University, Bangalore

  9. Ambedkar University, Delhi

  10. Symbiosis School of Economics, Pune

Top 10 Institutions in Kerala for BA Urban Studies:

  1. University of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram

  2. Mahatma Gandhi University, Kottayam

  3. Calicut University, Calicut

  4. St. Teresa’s College, Ernakulam

  5. Sacred Heart College, Thevara

  6. Farook College, Calicut

  7. St. Joseph’s College, Devagiri, Calicut

  8. Mar Ivanios College, Thiruvananthapuram

  9. CMS College, Kottayam

  10. St. Albert’s College, Ernakulam