Bachelor of Science in Community Development

Help build successful and sustainable cities and communities with a Bachelor of Science in Community Development from Temple University’s Tyler School of Art and Architecture. In this 122-credit undergraduate degree program, students learn how to become innovative and collaborative leaders who empower residents to take charge of the future of their communities.

The degree program’s coursework provides the necessary knowledge, values and job-ready skills to engage stakeholders to assess a community’s assets, needs and opportunities. Students learn to work collaboratively to develop strategies, programs and policies to improve housing, local economy, food access, social cohesion and resilience.

The Community Development BS curriculum extends into Philadelphia, where students employ best practices, engage in field research and partner with professionals and organizations to tackle complex challenges facing cities. This holistic approach launches graduates who are bold problem-solvers into successful careers in community development corporations, housing agencies, nonprofits, foundations and other community-based organizations.

Graduate Pathways

Through Tyler’s 4+1 accelerated track, students can earn a Bachelor of Science in Community Development and a Master of Science in City and Regional Planning in just five years by taking up to 12 specified graduate credits to fulfill the undergraduate degree requirements. Upon graduation from their undergraduate program, students move seamlessly into their graduate program, which they complete in one additional year.

Classes & Curriculum

As a BS in Community Development student, you’ll develop a critical awareness of the social, political, economic and cultural dynamics shaping various types of communities, with particular emphasis on empowering disadvantaged communities. A few courses you can anticipate taking include the following.

  • City Planning Principles and Practice
  • Community Engagement and Empowerment
  • Community Redevelopment and Revitalization
  • Housing and Community Development

Learn more about courses in this program.

Minor in Ecological Planning & Design

Deepen your understanding of the impact of community development on natural resources and processes while gaining an appreciation of ecologically sensitive design and development. In this minor, you will develop leadership and decision-making skills relevant to ensuring that design and development takes into consideration ecological, social, political, economic and governance factors.

Learn more about the Ecological Planning & Design minor.

Related Graduate Degrees

Tuition & Fees

In keeping with Temple’s commitment to access and affordability, the Bachelor of Science offers a competitive level of tuition with multiple opportunities for financial support.

Tuition rates are set annually by the university and are affected by multiple factors, including program degree level (undergraduate or graduate), course load (full- or part-time), in-state or out-of-state residency, and more. You can view the full Cost of Attendance breakdown on the Student Financial Services website.

These tuition costs apply to the 2024–2025 academic year.

Pennsylvania resident: $18,864.00 per year
Out-of-state: $33,912.00 per year

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