Urban Science: Sensing, Complexity, & Informatics, Doctoral Track
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What is it? | Benefits | How to Apply | Coursework | Our Students
What is the Urban Science Doctoral Track?
The Doctoral Track is specifically designed for students who want to focus on urban science through a cohesive array of in-class and experiential learning activities while pursuing their Ph.D. at NYU Tandon.
To participate in the Doctoral Track, students must be enrolled in one of the doctoral degree programs listed below:
- Biomedical Engineering, Ph.D.
- Chemical Engineering, Ph.D.
- Civil Engineering, Ph.D.
- Computer Science, Ph.D.
- Electrical Engineering, Ph.D.
- Human-Centered Technology, Innovation & Design, Ph.D.
- Mechanical Engineering, Ph.D.
- Urban Systems, Ph.D.
A holistic approach to improving cities
The interdisciplinary Doctoral Track in Urban Science: Complexity, Informatics, and Sensing, led by the Center for Urban Science + Progress (CUSP) at NYU Tandon, fosters a collaborative and inclusive environment for Ph.D. students across NYU Tandon who share an interest in convergent urban science research.
Participants in the Doctoral Track engage with CUSP’s urban science faculty, gaining expertise in complexity (dynamical systems, multi-agent systems, network science, and risk engineering), informatics (AI, machine learning, and robotics), and sensing (Internet of Things, smart infrastructure, wireless technologies).
Benefits
Academically Inclusive
Expand beyond traditionally narrow academic pathways and develop a broad perspective at the intersection of key disciplines.
Showcase Unique Expertise
Incorporate urban-focused research into your dissertation to drive meaningful change in the health and wellness of city residents.
Engage with Industry Leaders
Engage with guest speakers and industry professionals to gain practical insights on current topics through the Urban Science Colloquium.
How to Apply
Ph.D. students who have matriculated into participating NYU Tandon programs and wish to join the Urban Science Doctoral Track must apply before the start of the classes for the term they wish to begin, in accordance with the academic calendar. Prior approval from their Ph.D. advisor is required.
To apply, complete the application form with details about your current studies. CUSP will coordinate with your advisor to confirm approval and provide further guidance. Once admitted, you may enroll in CUSP elective courses and the Urban Science Colloquium.
Coursework
Participation in the Urban Science Doctoral Track entails the following coursework:
CUSP Elective Courses (9 credits)
Electives are categorized into three key areas: Complexity, Informatics, and Sensing. Track participants must select at least two areas, completing a minimum of one course (3 credits) in each. With approval from the Departmental Research Advisor and the CUSP Director, a relevant course from a student’s home department may substitute for a CUSP elective.
Course offerings vary each semester. CUSP elective courses for each focus area include such examples as the following:
Complexity Courses
- Complex Urban Systems
- Disaster Risk Analysis and Urban Systems Resilience
Informatics Courses
- Urban Spatial Analytics
- Applied Data Science
- Machine Learning for Cities
Sensing Courses
- IoT Security & Privacy: A Data-Driven Perspective
- Monitoring Cities
- Urban Sensing
Urban Science Colloquium
The Urban Science Colloquium is a dynamic and interactive seminar exploring challenges faced by city stakeholders, as well as innovative solutions. Doctoral Track participants must enroll in the Urban Science Colloquium each semester throughout their Ph.D. studies.
The Colloquium aims to guide students in exploring key topics, such as Violence Reduction Initiatives in Cities; Climate Change Resilience and Environmental Justice in Cities; Healthcare Equity and Access in Cities; and Applied Technological Infrastructure for Smart Cities.
Urban Science Dissertation Component
Doctoral Track participants must devote a portion of their dissertation (6 credits) to research on urban science and related methodological aspects in complexity, informatics, and/or sensing.
CUSP Faculty Inclusion on Dissertation Committees
Doctoral Track participants are encouraged to assemble interdisciplinary doctoral committees, compatible with their individual program requirements, to ensure the scope of their dissertation aligns with urban science. Each doctoral committee must include at least one member from CUSP’s Core or Affiliate faculty.
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