Your Career
Turn Your Passion into Impact.
Whether you're interested in sustainability, public policy, community development, public health, law, business, or social justice, the Urban Studies Minor gives you the knowledge, experience, and transferable skills to tackle complex challenges and build a meaningful career.
Where Can Urban Studies Take You?
Urban Studies graduates apply their skills across the public, private, and nonprofit sectors.
| If you want to... | You could become... | Loyola Alumni |
|---|---|---|
| Design stronger communities | Urban Planner • Transportation Planner • Community Development Specialist |
Emily Drane ('21) Urban Planner |
| Protect people and the environment | Environmental Scientist • Sustainability Coordinator • Climate Resilience Specialist | Sean Cunnane ('23) Environmental Scientist |
| Improve how cities work | Policy Analyst • Economic Development Specialist • Public Administrator |
Kevin White ('19) City Planner |
| Create positive change | Housing Advocate • Program Evaluator • GIS Analyst • Public Health Analyst • Community Organizer • Nonprofit Leader | Your story could be next! |
Career examples informed by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook and the American Planning Association
Why Employers Value Urban Studies
Today's employers are looking for graduates who can solve complex problems, work across disciplines, communicate effectively, and apply knowledge in real-world settings. The National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) identifies these as among the most important career-readiness competencies for new college graduates.
| In the Urban Studies minor, you'll... | You'll gain these skills... |
|---|---|
| Conduct community-based research | Research & analytical skills |
| Partner with community organizations | Teamwork & leadership experience |
| Analyze complex urban challenges | Critical thinking & problem solving |
| Present research and recommendations | Professional communication skills |
| Connect ideas across disciplines | Systems thinking & adaptability |
| Learn within the the urban setting of Chicago | Real-world experience that strengthens your résumé |
Ready to Build Your Future?
No matter where your career takes you, the Urban Studies Minor helps you understand complex systems, work across disciplines, and make a meaningful impact.