Over the past 500 years, the city has occupied a central place in the development of modern society. Urban studies seeks an understanding the city, its function and its dynamics, offering insights into today’s social and economic challenges.

The Urban Studies Program at Simon Fraser University enables aspiring and practicing professionals (e.g. planners, managers, researchers, analysts and activists), to develop urban research skills that are prized by municipalities, NGOs, federal and provincial governments, and private sector employers.  Our curriculum provides a strong foundation for understanding how cities function and how to improve them.

Courses are offered evenings at Simon Fraser University’s Vancouver campus, located at Harbour Centre, the hub of British Columbia's principal urban, national, and international centre. The program draws on Vancouver's experience but also encompasses cities in other places and from other times.