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Social Science

Urban Studies Program

Dean Gregory is not only a campus landscape architect, he's also an Urban Studies grad.

Dean Gregory (Hon. B.A., 1988) followed his undergraduate degree in Urban Studies and Political Science with a Master’s degree in Landscape Architecture. He now leads the planning and design of campus landscape initiatives at the University of British Columbia. Prior to joining the University, he was involved in significant streetscape, plaza, and park projects throughout the United States. Read more about Dean on LinkedIn.

What do employers value about Urban Studies Program graduates?

Within two years of graduation, 86% of graduates who are in the labour market are employed with a median salary of $50,725/year upon entering the workforce. 60% pursue further post-secondary studies. (Source: StatsCan Career Tool)

your degree after graduation

University of Toronto Urban Studies alumni most frequently apply their problem solving and writing skills in these industries:

  • Architecture
  • Arts and Design
  • Business Development
  • Community and Social Services
  • Consulting
  • Education
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Government
  • Journalism
  • Law
  • Media and Communication
  • Non-profit leadership
  • Program and Project Management
  • Real Estate
  • Research

graduate or professional school

An Urban Studies degree equips students with the critical thinking and research skills for a variety of academic next steps, including graduate programs in:

  • Architecture/ Landscape Architecture
  • Business Administration
  • City/Urban Planning
  • Geographic Information System
  • Geography
  • Global Affairs
  • Law
  • Politics 
  • Public Administration/Service
  • Public Policy
  • Public Relations or Communications
  • Social Work

exploring opportunities while you're a student

Learn About yourself

Register for the Job Shadowing Program to connect with professionals, like Architects, Construction and Development Professionals, Urban Planners,, in your career area of interest. During a half or full day job shadowing placement, you’ll begin to clarify your goals and better understand your career options.

Attend an In the Field program to meet professionals working in a variety of occupations within one organization.

Find a Work-Study Position and gain paid, on-campus positions that provide you with an opportunity to deepen your knowledge, strengthen your skills and explore how your academic studies translate to career possibilities.

Attend a career workshop or small group conversation to explore career possibilities, understand your skills, and plan for your career or further education. Visit clnx.utoronto.ca for more information.

Connect with Alumni

Participate in the Innis Alumni Mentorship Program to create a fulfilling student experience, or to discover expectations and possibilities after graduation in one-to-one mentorship pairings.

Build strong connections by joining the Urban Studies LinkedIn alumni group.

The Backpack to Briefcase (b2B) program provides opportunities for students and recent graduates, to meet and mingle with alumni, faculty, staff and fellow students from their department or academic unit. Alumni who volunteer for b2B Industry Nights, Career Panels, Speed Networking events and Mentorship Meals, offer guidance, career advice and encouragement to A&S students. By taking part in b2B, students will learn about the array of career possibilities available to them as A&S degree recipients. 

Explore Your Options

While you’re a student, get the support and make the connections you need to transition into your dream career.

Talk to your professors to better understand and prioritize your opportunities in the context of your discipline. 

Take URB235H1: A Multidisciplinary Introduction to Urban Studies I: Theoretical Foundations of City Building and URB236H1: A Multidisciplinary Introduction to Urban Studies II: Urban Changes and Theoretical Application, to apply course material and gain hands-on experience.

Apply to the School of Cities’ URB431Y1: Multidisciplinary Urban Capstone Project, to tackle a real-world design challenge provided by a community organization or local municipality.

Enrol in URB442H: Urban Studio – Public Participation in Policy Making and learn how to meaningfully engage people in the work of government to improve civility, foster community, increase trust and accountability, and solve complex or controversial problems.

Browse the Urban Studies Program’s robust course offerings, featuring a wide range of topics including housing and homelessness, urban qualitative research, social justice in the city, creative cities, and more!

Subscribe to the Urban Studies Newsletter for updated course information, academic and career opportunities and current events in the city.

Learn about scholarships and awards offered annually to students in the program.

Attend social and academic events organized by the Urban Studies Student Union (URSSU).

Visit the program’s website and follow the program's Twitter and Instagram accounts to learn about Urban Studies related events and news.