Urban Studies Major -- City Planning, Hospitality and Tourism, and Business Integrate in Charleston

Sarah Somes '13, a double major in urban studies and hospitality and tourism management, talks about the academic programs and how they worked together to prepare her for a career. For 2013-14, Somes is a fellow with Challenge Detroit, a leadership and professional development program that invites 30 of tomorrow's leaders to live, work, play, and give in and around the greater Detroit area for one year.

The Urban Studies program at the College of Charleston is a multidisciplinary major designed to provide students with the academic foundation necessary to understand and be sensitive to the problems and potential of the city and its environment. Students become acquainted with approaches to the study of urbanization through courses offered by several departments including, but not limited to, business administration, economics, history, sociology, political science, and historic preservation and community planning.

The Battery, King Street, Marion Square and Waterfront Park are only a few of the places that make Charleston unique. Have you ever wondered how the revitalization of these places plays a role in the current character of the City of Charleston? Have you ever thought about the significance of revitalization? Have you ever meandered the city's streets and wondered how Charleston has been able to maintain its historic character while cultivating a city of growth? Or you may have wondered how cities like Charleston go about balancing diverse community interests while meeting the pressing challenges of the 21st century including sustainability, demographic change, and housing and employment needs, among others.