Careers

Meet the growing demand for professionals in rural areas who can lead organizations in identifying, prioritizing and solving the unique challenges within the rapidly changing landscape of rural communities.

Oregon State’s Graduate Certificate in Rural Policy is ideal for early and mid-career professionals who need additional evidence of expertise and continuing education. This program connects professionals from diverse communities and organizations across counties, states and the country – providing you with opportunities to share solutions to common challenges and network for your career advancement.

Occupations

The knowledge you acquire in Oregon State’s online program will help you fill in-demand jobs in the global marketplace. As a leader in this area, you’ll graduate ready to showcase your abilities and make your mark as a professional who has the skills that employers need most.

Potential careers include:

• Agricultural policy analyst
• Rural or city planner
• Agritourism coordinator
• Economic development specialist
• Rural grants manager
• Health policy analyst
• Advocacy and outreach coordinator

Employers want rural policy experts

A 2016 survey of local government and nonprofit employers (many of whom are rural) indicates that there is strong support for graduate training in public policy. Rural policy was the most commonly cited area of emphasis preferred by these organizations, with 64% of respondents saying it would be useful for their employees.