Have you ever wondered why some neighborhoods thrive while others struggle to access safe, affordable housing? In this course, you’ll explore how housing and community development shape opportunity, stability, and mobility across the United States. You’ll examine the forces that influence where and how people live—such as poverty, segregation, and social inequality—and discover how housing policies and community development efforts can strengthen neighborhoods and expand opportunity. Through discussions, readings, and real-world examples, you’ll trace the history of housing policy and analyze how federal, state, and local decisions affect communities today. Along the way, you’ll reflect on your own experiences and perspectives while building the tools to think critically about housing challenges and solutions. Whether you’re interested in public policy, urban planning, or community leadership, this course helps you understand how housing decisions shape communities—and how you can help build more equitable ones.

Note that this information may change at any time. Please visit the MyBU Student Portal for the most up-to-date course information.