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The South Dakota State University campus will be closing from 5 p.m. on Friday, March 31 until 8 a.m. on Saturday, April 1, due to the Blizzard Warning that will go into effect 7 p.m. Friday to 4 a.m. on Saturday morning.  SDSU will then return to the normal weekend schedule on Saturday morning. Only essential employees as deemed by their supervisors will report to work during the closure hours. On Friday morning, ensure you continue to monitor the weather and work with your supervisor or instructor on your individual travel concerns. For additional closure information please check the Emergency Management website. 

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Sociology (M.S.) - Community Development Specialization

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For those committed to people and place

Communities thrive when local decision-makers and activists can creatively implement solutions for the social, economic, cultural and environmental challenges the community faces. The M.S. in Sociology - Community Development Specialization offers students an opportunity to study with leading educators, researchers, and practitioners representing diverse fields including community and regional planning, architecture, sociology, Native American studies, economics, and natural resources.

You will have access to cutting edge approaches and research in the field, an opportunity to build their own network to support both their career goals and their community development efforts, and the credential to assist with promotion and new career paths. Online delivery and modular scheduling allows you to fit classes into your own schedule around your professional career and personal responsibilities. Yet, you will still capture the richness of interacting and networking with faculty and other students in this electronic learning community.

Is it for you?

This program will be a good fit if you:

  • Hold an undergraduate degree in Sociology, Economics, Human services, or related field
  • Are working in a related field and want to develop connections to other organizations and people committed to successful community change
  • Are interested in the field and want to get a strong foundation to assist you in your career aspirations
  • Are interested in working with communities and organizations to address today’s challenges
  • Have strong writing and communication skills

Career Opportunities

  • Cooperative extension
  • Youth development
  • Housing
  • Community planning
  • Natural resource management
  • Community health and wellness programs
  • Parks and recreation
  • Food systems and community gardening projects
  • Poverty and homelessness programs
  • Military family services