Graduate Diploma - Rural Development

The Rural and Community Studies Program (RCSP) provides students with the opportunity to design an individually tailored degree that combines courses in rural and community studies with courses from traditional disciplines (e.g. Sociology and Geography). The purpose of this program is to provide students with a better understanding of the social, economic, and environmental issues facing rural regions, and in doing so, provide the skill base to assist those in rural regions to prepare for and adapt to such issues. Relationships with the graduate program in Rural Development and opportunities within the Rural Development Institute allow students to gain practical experience through research work. Prior to entering the program, students must consult with the Co-ordinator, who will assist them in working out a plan of study that meets the university requirements as well as their own needs and interests.

The Graduate Diploma in Rural Development is designed to provide graduate level study to those who wish to extend their knowledge of theory and practice through course work but are not interested in the research training component of graduate study. The Diploma program consists of 18 credit hours of course work. Any sequence of courses is allowable but the thesis and practicum options are not available.