IR203: An Urbanising World: Cities, Capitalism and the Environment

Urbanisation is one of the most crucial processes of change in the world today. It is also one of the most hotly debated topics across the social sciences.

The course begins with exploring the concept of the ‘urban’ in urban studies literature by examining what urbanisation means to the governments, businesses and people whose lives are affected by changes to the built environment of cities and to the ecosystems that support them. It moves on to consider urban contestations over policy, planning and development among a wide range of stakeholders, from real estate developers to social movements to international NGOs.

This interactive course will draw on examples of urban policy and planning practices from both the global North and the South, with emphasis on Asia, Latin America and the North Atlantic. It will also include a field visit to central London.

Prerequisites: At least one introductory course in the social sciences (politics, sociology, economics, geography, anthropology, history).

Level: 200 level. Read more information on levels in our FAQs

Fees: Please see Fees and payments

Lectures: 36 hours

Classes: 18 hours

Assessment: One examination (75%) and one essay (25%)

Typical credit: 3-4 credits (US) 7.5 ECTS points (EU)

Please note: Assessment is optional but may be required for credit by your home institution. Your home institution will be able to advise how you can meet their credit requirements. For more information on exams and credit, read Teaching and assessment

This course aims to help students critically understand key debates on urbanisation, and evaluate the social implications of this process. This course may be of interest to those hoping to develop a career in responding to future challenges of an urbanising world.

• Critically understand key contemporary debates on urbanisation and urban development
• Display comparative knowledge of urban transformations in different parts of the world
• Evaluate the social implications of urbanisation processes
• Respond to the future challenges of an urbanising world

The design of this course is guided by LSE faculty, as well as industry experts, who will share their experience and in-depth knowledge with you throughout the course.