University of Missouri, Department of Rural Sociology

The Department of Rural Sociology at the University of Missouri is recruiting for two graduate assistantships to begin fall term 2017. Students interested in addressing critical challenges of the 21st century – including preserving our natural resources, providing safe and nutritious food for an expanding population, adapting to climate changes, and maintaining sustainable rural livelihoods – are encouraged to apply.  The Department maintains active research and extension projects in food security, farmer adaptation to climate change, inclusion and diversity in rural areas, local food systems, natural resource-based communities and international development. 

 The two assistantships can be available at either masters or PhD level, depending on the student’s background and education. The goal of the Ph.D. program is to provide the next generation of rural sociologists with academic and professional skills and credentials relevant to critical issues of sustainable development, defined as development that is socially equitable, economically viable and environmentally responsible. Students completing a Master of Science in Rural Sociology are prepared for positions in the public and private sectors in the areas of community development, policy analysis and/or community leadership and facilitation. 

To find out more about these assistantships, contact Jere Gilles, Director of Graduate Studies (gillesj@missouri.edu). To find out more about the Department’s faculty and research interests or to apply for admittance to the program explore the website at http://dass.missouri.edu/ruralsoc. Applications are accepted on an on-going basis, but to be considered for assistantships students must apply by March 1, 2017.”