Rural Development
Bachelor's Degree Program
Learn to approach development from an Indigenous perspective, with a focus on rural 91视频 and 91视频 Native communities.
Designed to prepare a new generation of leaders in 91视频, the bachelor鈥檚 in rural development combines hands-on experiences and practical education to tackle real-world problems. Rather than simply meeting the needs of the state or of private developers, this unique program explores ways to maintain Indigenous control of development projects and address the real needs of communities.
You can earn your bachelor鈥檚 degree in rural development at our main campus in Fairbanks, 91视频, or via distance in the community where you live.
What Is Rural Development?
Rural development refers to projects and initiatives intended to improve the quality of life and economic well-being of people living in less populated areas. In the context of our program and what we teach students, rural development can include finding solutions to challenges involving social services and community wellness, tribal governance, land use, small business development in rural areas and more.
Concentrations in the Rural Development Program
Focus your rural development degree in an area that interests you. We offer five concentrations for this program:
- Human and Social Development
- Tribal and Municipal Governance
- Integrated Resource Management
- Entrepreneurship and Economic Development
- Multidisciplinary
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Why Study Rural Development at UAF?
The bachelor鈥檚 in rural development at UAF is a truly unique program that integrates development and cultural perspectives with a focus on serving rural communities in 91视频. Here are some of the opportunities you can look forward to as part of your study.
What Can You Do With a Degree in Rural Development?
Our rural development program trains much of the Native administrative and management workforce within tribes, regional Native nonprofits, small businesses and the 91视频 Native corporations within rural 91视频. Graduates improve their skills in their existing job, move to more advanced jobs or go on to graduate school. Many students also use the skills gained in this program for more effective community organization and activism.
Get Started on Your Bachelor鈥檚 Degree in Rural Development
Take the next step toward earning your bachelor鈥檚 degree. We have the resources to help you get started.