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Tulane University Launches Sustainable Urbanism Major and Minor

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(Via the Association of Collegiate Schools of Architecture)

The Tulane School of Architecture and Built Environment has launched a new Sustainable Urbanism undergraduate program. Offering both a major and a minor, the program equips students with the knowledge and skills to analyze and address the environmental, social, and economic challenges shaping cities today. Rooted in the principles of urbanism and sustainability, the program trains students to study the built environment and its impact on human well-being and ecological systems.

As the global urban population rises — projected to reach 68% by 2050 — cities face mounting challenges, including housing affordability, climate resilience, environmental degradation, and social inequality. The Sustainable Urbanism Program takes an interdisciplinary approach to these issues, drawing from fields such as urban planning, environmental studies, architecture, sociology, political science, landscape architecture, and social innovation. Students will explore how cities develop, how they function, and how they can be improved—all while developing strategies to make urban environments more socially just, universally accessible, and environmentally responsible.

A key emphasis of the program is its alignment with global sustainability frameworks, including the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the Paris Agreement, and the United Nations Urban Agendas for 2030 and 2050. Courses will examine sustainable city-making practices, climate action, green infrastructure, disaster resilience, and policies that support equity and inclusion in urban spaces. Through both theoretical study and applied research, students will learn to propose urban development pathways that promote environmental and social justice while ensuring cities remain vibrant, livable, and adaptable to change.

The major consists of 40 credit hours, while the minor requires a minimum of 18 credit hours, allowing students to combine their studies with other disciplines or take advantage of study-abroad opportunities. The curriculum integrates practical research methodologies, including urban data analysis, GIS mapping, stakeholder engagement, and representational design tools. By combining quantitative and qualitative research methods, students will develop the skills necessary to evaluate urban challenges and design innovative, actionable solutions.

Beyond the classroom, the program prioritizes hands-on learning through collaborative research projects, internships, and partnerships with local and international organizations. By working alongside community stakeholders, students will engage with real-world urban issues such as disaster preparedness, housing accessibility, transportation infrastructure, and climate resilience.

Details on the program are posted online.

Pt I: 5 Tips to Help You Prepare for Architecture School

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Interested in studying architecture and looking for ways to prepare? Study Architecture, in partnership with the American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS), has put together a series called “An Application Guide to Architecture Schools” where we will share tips and tricks from current and former architecture students. Over the next few months, look out for more posts as part of this ongoing series.

Tip #1: Research. Research. Research.

There are many paths to becoming a licensed architect. If that’s your goal, it’s important to know which schools offer degree programs accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB). Additionally, you should also assess what area of focus a school emphasizes. For example, some schools are art intensive, some are technology-focused and others are community-centered.

Tip #2: Take an art class.

It’s a common misconception that studying architecture will be extremely math-intensive. While every program has different requirements, art and/or design is a staple in most programs. Architecture is a blend of art and science and so cultivating those art skills early will definitely give you a leg up. As a student, you’ll discover that an architecture degree can lead to many careers.

Tip #3: Get social.

Social media is a great way to expose yourself to design content from around the world. Check out student work on Instagram @imadethat_, keep up with what’s happening at architecture schools on Instagram @studyarchitecture, and get a preview of what student leaders are doing with their design and service work on Instagram by following @aiasorg.

Tip #4: Explore some architectural sites.

This can often be done right where you live. Architecture is everywhere. From historic homes found in the south to skyscrapers lining city streets, each building found in your neighborhood contributes to the social, political and environmental story of your community.

Tip #5: Visit a few schools.

If time and money permits, it’s always best to visit the school’s campus so you can see the student work, take a tour of the school, and ask questions in person. See the next page for a shortlist of questions you can ask the admissions department. 

This post is part one of a series entitled An Application Guide to Architecture School. Download the guide as a PDF.

Written by Kendall Nicholson, Amanda Gann, Sarah Curry, and Adam Fogel. Special thanks to the AIAS Equity and Diversity Task Force for their contribution.