B.A. in Urban Studies

Entry requirements for Undergraduate Programs:

• Academic Qualifications: International students applying for undergraduate programs at UIC are expected to have completed their secondary education or its equivalent. The minimum academic requirement is a score of 60% or above in the qualifying examination.
   
• English Language Proficiency: 
  • IELTS: A minimum overall band score of 6.5 is required, with no individual score below 6.0.
  • TOEFL: A minimum score of 80 is required on the internet-based test (iBT).
  • PTE: A minimum overall score of 54 is required. 

Scholarships for International Students at the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC):

1. UIC Global Scholarship: The UIC Global Scholarship is available for international undergraduate and graduate students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement and contribute to the diversity of the university. The scholarship provides partial tuition waivers to recipients.

2. Chancellor's Award Program: The Chancellor's Award Program is a merit-based scholarship offered to incoming undergraduate students at UIC. International students with outstanding academic records and achievements are eligible to apply for this competitive scholarship.

3. UIC Distinguished International Merit Scholarships: The UIC Distinguished International Merit Scholarships are awarded to exceptional international undergraduate students who have demonstrated academic excellence and leadership potential. These scholarships cover a portion of the tuition fees.

4. UIC International Tuition Waiver: International graduate students at UIC may be eligible for the International Tuition Waiver, which provides a reduction in tuition fees. The waiver is awarded based on academic merit and availability of funds.

5. College-Specific Scholarships: UIC's colleges and departments offer a variety of scholarships for international students within specific academic disciplines. These scholarships are often based on academic achievement, leadership qualities, and specific program requirements. Students should check with their respective college or department for available scholarship opportunities.

6. External Scholarships: UIC encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities from governmental and non-governmental organizations, both in their home countries and in the United States. These scholarships may be specific to fields of study, nationalities, or other criteria. The Office of Special Scholarship Programs at UIC can provide guidance and resources for finding external scholarships.

It is important to note that scholarship availability, criteria, and application processes may vary each year. 

The University of Illinois Chicago's B.A. in Urban Studies program prepares graduates for diverse and impactful careers at the intersection of urban development, policy, and community engagement. Armed with a multidisciplinary understanding of urban dynamics, graduates are well-equipped to address the complex challenges and opportunities present in urban environments. The B.A. in Urban Studies from the University of Illinois Chicago prepares graduates for a diverse range of impactful careers, offering the skills and knowledge needed to contribute to the development of resilient, sustainable, and inclusive urban environments. Whether in planning, policy, or community development, graduates emerge ready to make positive contributions to the complex landscape of urban studies.

1. Urban Planner: Graduates can pursue careers as urban planners, contributing to the design and development of sustainable and livable urban spaces. They work with communities, government agencies, and developers to create plans that address housing, transportation, and environmental considerations.

2. Community Development Specialist: With a focus on community engagement, graduates may choose to work as community development specialists. They collaborate with local residents, organizations, and government entities to implement initiatives that enhance the quality of life in urban neighborhoods.

3. Policy Analyst: Graduates can become policy analysts, working for governmental bodies, think tanks, or advocacy organizations. They analyze and propose policies that address urban issues such as housing affordability, transportation, and social equity, contributing to informed decision-making.

4. Environmental Planner: Those interested in sustainability can pursue careers as environmental planners. They focus on creating urban environments that are environmentally responsible, addressing issues such as green spaces, renewable energy, and mitigating the impact of urban development on ecosystems.

5. Real Estate Developer: Graduates may choose to enter the field of real estate development, contributing to the planning and execution of urban projects. They work on initiatives ranging from residential and commercial developments to revitalizing urban spaces.

6. Social and Community Services Manager: With a commitment to community well-being, graduates can become social and community services managers. They work for nonprofit organizations or government agencies, overseeing programs that address social issues and improve urban living conditions.

7. Transportation Planner: Those interested in urban mobility can pursue careers as transportation planners. They focus on designing efficient and sustainable transportation systems, addressing issues such as public transit, traffic management, and pedestrian-friendly urban planning.

8. Research Analyst: Graduates can enter the field of urban research, working with research institutions, consulting firms, or government agencies. They analyze data, conduct studies, and provide insights that inform urban policies and initiatives.

9. Housing Specialist: Those passionate about housing issues can become housing specialists. They work to address housing affordability, homelessness, and housing policy, collaborating with governmental and nonprofit organizations to create inclusive housing solutions.

10. Nonprofit Program Coordinator: Graduates may choose to work in nonprofit organizations as program coordinators, managing initiatives that contribute to the social and economic well-being of urban communities. They focus on education, healthcare, or other areas that impact community development.

11. GIS Analyst: With proficiency in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), graduates can pursue careers as GIS analysts. They use spatial data to analyze and visualize urban patterns, supporting decision-making processes in urban planning, development, and research.