This course aims to provide students with an understanding of the foundational elements of a smart city. It begins with an examination of the trend of urbanization and various challenges of urban development today. It will further discuss how the concept of smart city and its applications can address those challenges. Meanwhile, the course will also build awareness of potential concerns in developing smart city applications including data privacy and security issues. Students should get familiar with various enabling technology infrastructures and data analytical tools behind smart cities. Cases in China as well as around the world will be used to illustrate the approaches, benefits and risks involved.