Urban Studies Students have created various student organisations to further explore their interests, in particular aspects of urban studies, outside the classroom.

The Architectural Collective (TACO)

Urban Studies students interested in architecture, design, and the practice came together to establish The Architectural Collective (TACO). The collective enables students to learn more about architecture, develop skills for design, and participate in design competitions with support from faculty. It adds depth in architectural knowledge, on top of existing courses in the urban studies major, and offers opportunities for students wishing to pursue graduate studies in architecture and design.

In March 2021, TACO hosted award-winning local photographer Darren Soh who discussed the significance of his works depicting “everyday modernism.” Earlier, in February 2021, TACO held a SketchUp workshop with Prof. Joshua Comaroff where participants learnt how to use the free-to-use 3D-modelling software SketchUp to design buildings, games and furniture.

Yale-NUS Farming Collective

Students and faculty from various majors, including urban studies, came together to farm spaces on campus and learn more about best-farming practices in an urban environment. The collective enables students to learn the challenges of farming through experience and meet like-minded individuals who share an interest in the future of farming urban spaces.