programs

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List of Rural Planning and Development Alumni and Thesis Titles

MSc Program - MSPL RPD

The Master of Science program in Rural Planning and Development provides the opportunity for graduate study, research and professional development in either the Canadian or International rural planning and development streams. The program objective is to ensure that students have the knowledge and skill to conduct interdisciplinary research and, in a professional capacity, guide processes of change in the rural planning and development context.

Rural Planning and Development has an interdisciplinary philosophy, and encourages students to take courses and work with faculty from other units on campus. The program has applied components that stress professional practice as an important element of the student’s education.

The program prepares graduates to work as researchers, international development specialists, project and program managers and designers, field staff, planners, project officers, evaluators and a variety of other positions.  Graduates work for consultants, all levels of government, international and national non governmental agencies (NGOs), research agencies, colleges and universities, the United Nations, multilateral and bilateral agencies and others.

canadian stream

The focus of the Canadian rural planning and development program is on rural and regional dimensions of Canada.  Skills in plan formulation, implementation, management and evaluation are developed and demonstrated through community based course projects, case studies, applied student research and internships.  Students in the Canadian stream of study are expected to undertake an internship, usually in the summer, with a planning department, consulting firm or non-governmental organization.

International Stream

The International rural development planning field prepares students for practice and research in rural and regional development planning in the international context.  It focuses on the rural regional dimension within a national or global context, in particular the policy, planning and management processes that are driving development interventions.  It emphasizes applied research and practice based on a firm foundation of theory.  If you are interested in this stream, please check Master of Science Planning on the application form (MSPL RPD - International stream) and not the second option with International Development Studies.

In both the Canadian and International streams, students have the opportunity to develop in one area of emphasis:  Community and Social Development; International Agricultural Development Planning; Land Use Planning; Environmental Management; Resource Management; and Program Evaluation.

The Canadian and International streams are both recognized by the Canadian Institute of Planners (CIP).

Program duration

Usually, the program takes two years (six semesters) to complete.  Some students will take as little as 4 semesters.  This is largely because students enter Rural Planning and Development from a wide variety of disciplinary backgrounds.  Some enter the program directly from an undergraduate program.  A significant number have had some years experience in the work force.  Both the Canadian and International streams may be taken on a part-time basis.

Masters Program - MPLAN RPD

This 1 year program is geared towards more experienced graduates working for an agency or non governmental organization abroad or in Canada; or for mature Canadian planners working in a municipal planning environment, for other levels of government, in professional consulting, non governmental organizations or other contexts or for graduates of related professional programs.  It is explicitly designed for individuals wishing to upgrade their professional training to the Masters level without necessarily withdrawing from the work force for an extended period of time.

The University of Guelph is internationally recognized for its high quality professional programs in rural planning and development and attracts students from all over the world, including the United States, Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and the European Union.  Entering students come from a wide range of undergraduate programs and can expect to establish their own academic agenda for their continuing intellectual and professional development.  The intensive program of study combines research, outreach, and ongoing interaction with faculty to create a stimulating learning environment, and affords our students a wealth of opportunities.  This program may be taken on a part-time basis.

PhD Program in Rural Studies

The Ph.D. in Rural Studies brings together students from different disciplines who share an interest in rural issues. The program is made up of both Canadian and International students. Topics studied under the Ph.D. program are quite diverse, and tend to focus on the student’s individual area of interest.  For further information please go to www.uoguelph.ca/~rsphd/