Housing Studies is the applied and theoretical study of housing policy, residential environmental health, residential technology, and social and economic analyses and their interactions with and effects on individuals, families, and communities in rural, suburban, and urban settings.

ACADEMIC PROGRAMS IN HOUSING STUDIES

Bachelor of Science Degree in Housing Studies
The Housing Studies program teaches students about shelter and its multiple dimensions, focusing on skills that will allow students to contribute to the housing field. Coursework in the program includes the social and behavioral sciences, public policy, planning, economics, and technology. Students select one of four broad areas of concentration: community development and policy, housing technology, management and finance, or special populations. An internship is required for the student to work in a setting at which they will gain professional housing experience before graduating.

Undergraduate Minor in Housing Studies
The housing studies minor allows students enrolled in a different undergraduate degree program at the University of Minnesota to complete 15 credits of coursework in housing studies.

Post-baccalaureate Graduate Certificate in Housing Studies
The Housing Studies Certificate Program is designed for professionals who have completed a four-year college degree and are interested in gaining further knowledge about housing-related issues. Many professionals who work in areas related to housing often have degrees in fields unrelated to housing. They see the need to expand their knowledge about housing, to keep updated for their job, and to continue professional development. If this is your situation, completing this 15 credit program curriculum will provide you with a deeper understanding of housing issues. Students are admitted year round to the Certificate program by first contacting the College of Continuing Education.

Graduate Degrees with an emphasis in Housing Studies
Master of Science - Master of Arts - Doctorate of Philosophy

Graduate study in the Housing Studies emphasis of the graduate program in Design, Housing, and Apparel advances both theoretical and practical knowledge in the field. Course offerings emphasize human needs and behavior, policy and community development, analysis of designed environments, and housing for special populations. Students are prepared to assist people in their shelter-related problems through research and students are trained in a variety of research methodologies. Coursework and research experiences combine to further the understanding of innovative approaches to the development of housing policies and related programs. Upon completion of the graduate degree, students seek housing careers in state and federal agencies, nonprofit community organizations, housing regulation, and higher education.