The Rural Studies PhD provides opportunities for advanced studies and research on the integration of socio-cultural and bio-physical components of capacity development, design, or planning of landscape systems and rural communities. Graduates become leading specialists in addressing sustainable landscapes and issues related to rural communities. Interdisciplinary research is emphasized, building on disciplines within the School of Environmental Design and Rural Development (SEDRD) [1] which include: capacity development and extension, landscape architecture, and rural planning and development.
The objective of the program is to prepare specialists who can assume leadership roles in dealing with problems and opportunities in rural communities. More details on this program are available through the SEDRD Rural Studies website [2].
Potential Faculty Advisors [4]
Student Profiles
Say hello to Ashleigh, a PhD candidate in the School of Environmental Design and Rural Development at the University of Guelph. Her research is finding ways to help rural Canada keep up in a future innovative digital economy.
Ashleigh Weeden, PhD [5]
Rural Studies
Meet the Profs
Say hello to the professors of the School of Environmental Design and Rural Development in these research snapshot videos.
Environmental Planning & Development
Rural Economic Development
Application Deadline
February 28th of each year. Entry in the Fall semester of each year only.
Find Out More
Here's a compiled list of helpful links about graduate school at the University of Guelph:
- PhD - Rural Studies Program Brochure [8]
- Faculty Profiles & Research Interests [4]
- Admission Requirements [9]
- Applying to Guelph [10]
- Tuition [11]
- Scholarships & Funding [12]
- FAQs about Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies [13]
Contact Us
Graduate Program Assistant
Lorena Barker
519-824-4120 ext 56780
rsphd@uoguelph.ca [14]