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Course Info for URST - 311 - 01, Spring 2026
Class number: 2964 Title: Cities at Work Department: Urban Studies
Career: Undergraduate Component: Seminar Session: Regular
Instructor's Permission Required: No Grading Basis: Regular Units: 1.00
Enrollment limited to 19 Current enrollment: 17 Available seats: 2
Start date: Tuesday, January 20, 2026 End date: Friday, May 8, 2026 Mode of Instruction: In Person
Schedule: TR: 1:30PM-2:45PM, LSC - 131 Instructor(s): Hussain, Mushahid
Prerequisite(s): None
Distribution Requirement: Meets Social Sciences and Global Requirements
Course Description:
This course critically examines employment relationships and power structures in contemporary cities. Using case studies from the United States and across the globe, we will explore debates on how globalization and the rise of informal urban labor markets, the gig economy and other precarious forms of work are transforming the nature of urban employment. We will also analyze the effects of de-industrialization on urban job markets, the challenges faced by immigrant workers, and the evolving role of sanctuary cities. Additionally, the course investigates collective efforts to secure health, environmental, and labor protections in urban employment settings. Students will gain a crucial understanding of how cities are reshaping the nature of work, labor rights movements, and urban citizenship in an era of rapid economic and social change.