Description | Syllabi

The purpose of this course is to acquaint students with the concepts, practices and strategies of urban economic development. Since World War 11, there has been a large body of literature produced on international, national, state and community economic development. The literature has proliferated as governments and community groups seek ways to attract and retain industry to stabilize their economic base; create jobs and reduce poverty. In the last two decades there has been an additional focus on efforts to link human development to economic development and on sustainability. This course focuses on four areas: (1) The concepts and debates about development; (2) The political, economic, spatial and social processes that shape economic and human development; (3) Analytical tools and (4) Economic development strategies Students are expected to follow the readings and engage in discussion. The major themes of the class are reducing the widening income and wealth gaps in cities, job creation, and linking economic and human development. Students should be prepared to integrate concepts and findings from a variety of sources. We will also work with the New York City Council. Professionals from the unions, government, industries and the communities will provide guidance and information.

Prerequisites:None