Master in Rural Planning & Development

Tuition comes to 37,500 CAD per year. Applications for the Sep 2027 intake close on Feb 1, 2027.

The Master in Rural Planning & Development at the University of Guelph is a Master's degree program that takes one year to complete. It is designed for students who want to gain expertise in rural planning and development. The program helps students develop skills in planning, development, and management of rural areas.

The curriculum includes courses such as International Rural Development Planning, Professional Practice in Development and Planning, and Project Development. Students also learn about environmental impact assessment, water resource management, and economic development planning. The program includes hands-on components, such as project-based learning and a major research paper.

Graduates of the program can pursue careers as Rural Planner, Development Manager, Environmental Consultant, Policy Analyst, or Community Development Officer. They can work in industries such as government, non-profit, or private sector, and can be employed by organizations such as the Canadian government, the United Nations, or the World Bank.

The University of Guelph sits in the vibrant city of Guelph, Ontario and combines a welcoming campus community with strong research intensity. Founded in 1964, the university offers a broad range of programs across 68 disciplines and serves around 28,000 students including about 3,500 international learners. Academic strengths include agriculture, veterinary medicine, life sciences, environmental studies, business and the arts, making it an appealing option for students seeking applied and research-led study.

Students benefit from hands-on learning, laboratory and field research opportunities, and community-engaged projects that connect classroom study to real-world challenges. Faculty are active researchers and mentors, and many programs emphasize experiential placements, co-operative education and internships that enhance employability. Campus services provide academic advising, career support and dedicated resources for international students to help with transition, visas and cultural adjustment.

Living in Guelph offers a balance of a close-knit city atmosphere and easy access to Toronto for broader industry connections. The campus environment is known for sustainability initiatives, student clubs and wellness programs that support academic success and social life. For prospective international students seeking a supportive research university with practical training and a breadth of program choices, the University of Guelph delivers a collaborative environment to develop skills and launch a global career.