A Master of Arts is a postgraduate degree that enables students to increase their knowledge in a specific field. Some MA degrees will include research, and they may also require completion of a thesis in order to graduate.

What is an MA in Rural Development? The field of rural development is focused on learning how to improve quality of life in rural areas while ensuring that resources are developed in a sustainable way. Development refers to boosting agricultural productivity as well as enhancing the health and nutrition of the people living in local communities. In essence, graduates learn about this delicate balance between agriculture as a business, the very real social issues that are affected, and how to manage them. Study can include areas such as agricultural management, economics, rural sociology, resource management, planning and human resources.

A master’s degree enables students to get further training in the area of rural development that they are most interested in while increasing their employment opportunities. Salary expectancy will also be improved due to the greater knowledge that can be brought to the job.

Postgraduate degrees vary in cost, depending on both the length of the course of study and the institution chosen. Online degrees can often help students lower the cost of receiving a master’s degree. To get a better idea of the costs associated with this degree, contact prospective schools directly.

A master’s degree in rural development prepares graduates to engage in a variety of careers in both developing and developed countries. These can be in both the private and public sector or for government agencies and nonprofits. Areas of focus include regional planning, project planning and implementation, and development evaluation at all levels including international, national and local. Focus can be further detailed in terms of health, economics or agricultural growth.

Master’s degrees in rural development are offered at many international institutions, both on campus and online. This allows candidates to enjoy a more flexible way of studying, allowing you to complete your degree in the time you have available. Search for your program below and contact directly the admission office of the school of your choice by filling in the lead form.