Students who study urban development may be introduced to perspectives that come from a variety of different fields. These may include geography, public policy, urban planning, sociology, environmental studies, public service management and real estate.

Certificate programs, which can be earned in about a year, consist of academic classes that are offered at different skill and ability levels. Undergraduate as well as graduate students, depending on their field of study, may obtain certificates.

Part-time learning allows one to obtain a degree or qualification even if one cannot attend school on a full-time basis. One can learn at one's own pace, gradually accumulating credits that count towards a final qualification.