The Similarities of Universities

All urban universities have much in common, but also they have significant differences. Because urban universities are responsive and connected to their communities, each develops unique features and characteristics, reflecting the nature and composition of these communities.
Additionally, urban universities are shaped by their relationships with their state systems of higher education. Urban institutions always differ in history, institutional age, classifications, rankings, and funding patterns. (Linking to the National Project Web-site where the profiles of the urban universities are located)
Keeping these differences in mind, there are some characteristics that urban universities generally share:

Students who attend urban universities compared to those who attend more traditional schools are more likely to perform multiple roles while they attend school; in particular, they are more likely to have extensive work and family obligations.
 
Students at urban universities represent cultural,economic, social, and academic diversity; the urban university,therefore, must respond to a wide range of student talents and support needs.

Much of the faculty at urban universities is involved in interdisciplinary research, often focusing on complex issues in the metropolitan region.

The faculty of urban universities often includes a large proportion of part-time instructors who are members of the urban community and bring valuable applied experience to the classroom.

Urban universities collaborate with the public and private sectors of the region, forming partnerships with area business and industry, government and community agencies, and regional primary and secondary education systems.

Urban universities serve the metropolitan region by raising its level of educational attainment, especially for traditionally under-served populations.
 

Reference : Portland State University.