Urban Studies majors and minors examine urbanization and the multitude of issues inherent in urban life from the perspective of a wide range of disciplines and methodological traditions. The critical analysis of urban issues helps students evaluate the various political, sociocultural, and economic strategies available to urban planners, local governments, nonprofit organizations, law enforcement agencies, and others seeking to remedy the problems of contemporary cities. The Urban Studies major encourages students to take advantage of the extraordinarily dynamic and diverse nature of urban Los Angeles.
Environmental Studies majors and minors acquire an interdisciplinary understanding of the complex issues and concerns associated with the environment. Building on courses in a variety of departments in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences, the Environmental Studies program offers a coherent curriculum addressing some of the most pressing ecological, political, economic, social, and ethical programs of the contemporary world.