Learning Community

The MA in Urban Studies and Leadership Program: Community Arts Concentration is a unique, interdisciplinary learning environment where students become actively engaged in a variety of collaborative and integrated instructional methodologies. The Program utilizes a combination of classroom lectures, seminars, internships, and research experiences led by a multi-disciplinary team of faculty to provide a rich and exciting learning environment.

The core of this extended learning environment is a true cooperative venture with communities, industries, other educational institutions and governments, both locally and around the globe, where instructors and guest practitioners give students a broad and real-world, current perspective on critical issues facing urban areas today. Through this cross-cultural, interdisciplinary approach, students gain an appreciation of the rich and varied cultural influences that come together to shape urban communities.

In the classroom setting, students learn experientially as members of cross-disciplinary learning communities, where they work within small groups comprised of faculty members and other students from a variety of disciplines within the Program. Through participation in consulting partnerships, peer observations, and other collaborative protocols, students become active participants in the learning process.

As students progress through the Program, they develop relationships with other members of the urban communities and governments to create new partnerships and expand their network of learning communities. Through these interactions, students learn that their ability to become effective change agents in urban transformation depends on their ability to understand the full scope and complexity of problems from the perspective of community members. Therefore, both students and faculty are encouraged to become equal members of the urban communities they serve.

In addition, students have an opportunity to work closely with faculty members who serve as mentors and provide guidance as they move through the learning process. Through this focus on collaborative, interdisciplinary study, students learn how to become active participants in their communities and are better able to apply research, analytical, and critical thinking skills to find effective, holistic solutions to the complexities of problems within urban communities.

Contact Us

Urban Studies Department
Campolo College of Graduate and Professional Studies
Eastern University | Philadelphia
3300 Henry Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19129

P: 215-769-3121
F: 215-848-2651
E: urbanma@eastern.edu