Program: Community Development (M.S.) - South Dakota State University

2023-2024 Graduate Catalog

Apr 03, 2025

Student studying at a desk.

Program Coordinator/Contact

Paul Markel, Director, Acting Graduate Coordinator
School of Psychology, Sociology and Rural Studies
Psychology, Sociology and Rural Studies 107, Box 2120
605-688-4322

Program Information

The M.S. in Community Development provides students the opportunity to study with leading educators and researchers from several different universities representing a diversity of fields including Community and Regional Planning, Architecture, Sociology, American Indian Studies, Economics and Natural Resources. This program is designed for people doing community development work in non-profit organizations, colleges, communities, community organizations and governments. The program welcomes those working in all areas to help communities and regions build their capacity for an inclusive, sustainable future; those who volunteer their time and resources to support community; and most of all those with a passion for working toward a brighter future and a willingness to share their experience and wisdom with others via the Internet community. A student guide to the program is available upon request.

Course Delivery Format

The online program has been developed by faculty from the Great Plains Interactive Distance Education Alliance (Great Plains IDEA). Courses will be entirely internet based and will be taught by faculty within the Alliance (Kansas State University, North Dakota State University, South Dakota State University, and University of Nebraska). Courses are offered fall, spring, and summer semesters.

Student Learning Outcomes

Professional knowledge of community development (CD) theory, methods, practices, and ethics.
The ability to create and implement planning and action for community change toward more prosperity for all.
Communication skills appropriate for both academic and public audiences.

Available Options for Graduate Degrees

Master of Science	Option A - Thesis	36 Credit Hours
	Option B - Research/Design Paper	36 Credit Hours
	Option C - Coursework Only	36 Credit Hours

Core Requirements

CD 600 - Foundations of Community Development Credits: 3
CD 601 - Organizing for Community Change Credits: 3
CD 602 - Community and Regional Economic Policy and Analysis Credits: 3
CD 603 - Community Natural Resource Management Credits: 3
CD 604 - Community Analysis Credits: 3
CD 605 - Principles and Strategies of Community Change Credits: 3

Select one of the following options

Option A - Thesis

SOC 798 - Thesis (COM) Credits: 1-7 (6 credits required)
Electives Credits: 12
Electives will be determined in consultation with the advisor.

Option B - Research/Design Paper

SOC 791 - Independent Study (COM) Credits: 1-3 (3 credits required)
SOC 794 - Internship (COM) Credits: 1-6 and Written Report (3 credits required)
Electives Credits: 12
Electives will be determined in consultation with the advisor.

Option C - Coursework Only

Electives Credits: 18
Electives will be determined in consultation with the advisor.

Total Required Credits: 36 (Options A, B, & C)

Additional Admission Requirements

GRE: Not required
TOEFL: 71 Internet-based
TOEFL Essentials: 7.5
IELTS: 6.0
Duolingo: 100

Each applicant is required to provide two signed letters of recommendation from individuals familiar with the student’s academic record as part of the graduate school application process. In addition, we require that interested applicants submit a writing sample (past term paper or a professional technical report, for example) and a personal statement. The personal statement should outline the applicant’s academic goals and describe how those goals connect with SDSU faculty expertise and interests.

General Requirements

Graduate students should consult with their advisor before registering for graduate coursework.

For additional information refer to the Master’s Degree Requirements .

Community Development (M.S.)

Location(s): OnlineClose