Rural communities face an extraordinarily complex set of challenges due to sparse settlements and geographic isolation, exacerbated by globalization and technological change in an interdependent urban-rural system. Addressing these challenges requires both the theoretical insights of multiple disciplines and the practical wisdom that derives from engagement in solving actual problems in rural places. The primary goal of the Rural Policy concentration is to develop a new generation of interdisciplinary researchers that engage rural communities in place-based multi-method research that not only develops our knowledge of rural communities and their environments, but also effects positive change in those communities. Working closely with OSU's Rural Studies Program and the International Consortium for Rural Policy Studies, students have the opportunity to engage in rural policy research and internships both in the United States and the World.
OSU Rural Studies Program: http://ruralstudies.oregonstate.edu/
International Comparative Rural Policy Studies Consortium: http://www.brandonu.ca/Academic/RuralDevelopment/ICRPS/ICRPS2.HTM#program
Minimum 17 credit hours in the following courses:
Other pertinent courses at OSU may be selected subject to approval of the MPP Committee. Decisions about the elective course of study will be based on matching the student's needs and preparation with the MPP program.