The objective of the graduate diploma program is to provide mid-career, rural development professionals from Canada and abroad with postgraduate education and training to improve their job-related expertise within a 10 month practitioner-oriented program. The program enhances the ability of such persons to be effective in the conceptualization, design, planning, implementation, management and evaluation of rural development policies, programs and projects internationally.

Applicants require a Canadian 3 year Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) with a satisfactory academic record. At least five years of responsible professional experience in rural development or a related field is also required.

The 10 month program from September to June 30 combines graduate course work with field studies and a professional paper. The program requires at least 2.75 course credits, including the course, International Rural Development Planning: Principles and Practices, the Major Professional Paper, and Diploma Field Studies. In addition, at least three other courses must be taken during the 10 months. Of these three courses, two can be from a department/school other than Rural Planning and Development. See also the Graduate Diploma in International Rural Development Planning in the degree regulations.