Rural Sociology

The Bachelor of Science in Rural Sociology at Iowa State University provides students with an in-depth understanding of the social, economic, and cultural aspects of rural communities and agricultural environments. This program is designed to equip students with the analytical skills and knowledge necessary to address the complex challenges faced by rural populations and agricultural industries today. Through a comprehensive curriculum, students explore topics such as community development, land use, agricultural policy, environmental sustainability, and social change. They learn to apply sociological theories and research methods to real-world issues, preparing them for careers in public policy, community planning, agricultural consulting, non-profit organizations, and government agencies. The program emphasizes experiential learning, offering opportunities for internships, community engagement, and research projects that foster practical skills and professional development. Faculty members are experts in rural sociology, providing mentorship and guidance to help students tailor their education to their career aspirations. Graduates of this program are well-prepared to contribute to the sustainable development of rural areas and to facilitate positive social change in agricultural and rural communities worldwide. With its strong foundation in both sociology and agricultural sciences, the Rural Sociology program at Iowa State University is committed to producing graduates who understand the intricacies of rural life and are ready to make a meaningful impact in related fields.

• 1 course in sociological theory: Soc 506 (3 cr) Classical Sociological Theory OR Soc 607 (3 cr) Contemporary Sociological Theory 
• Stat 401 (4 cr) Statistical Methods for Research Workers 
• Soc 511 (3 cr) Research Methodology for the Social Sciences 
• 1 course in advanced methods: Stat 404 (3 cr) Regression for Social and Behavioral Research OR Soc 513 (3 cr) Qualitative Research Methods 
• Soc 591 (1 cr) Orientation to Sociology
• Soc 599 (6 cr) Master's Thesis Research
• Sociology graduate faculty member as Major Professor
• Final oral exam must test for sociology major
• A thesis that reflects the student’s sociological competence

Electives

• 4 courses as specified on POS 

• Iowa State requires a degree it considers comparable to a US bachelor’s or higher degree from a regionally accredited college or university prior to beginning graduate studies. (For foreign institutions, that would be recognition by the Ministry of Education.) 
• Our graduate application form is only available online. The $100 application fee for international students is nonrefundable. If you prefer not to pay the application fee by credit card, you may complete and print the online application, and attach your personal check. All checks should be in US dollars and made payable to Iowa State University.
• Grade Point Average (GPA)
• Statement of Purpose
• The Sociology Graduate Program requires 3 letters of recommendation to be submitted as part of the online application.
• Optional material: All applicants are invited to submit a writing sample (thesis, research paper, creative component paper, etc).
• Internet Based TOEFL (iBT) 79, Paper-Based TOEFL (PBT) 550
• IELTS 6.5
• Graduate Records Examination (GRE)
• Financial Statement

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Scholarships

• George Freeman Memorial Scholarship
• Joe M. Bohlen Memorial Scholarship
• Gerald E. and D. Eileen Klonglan Scholarship
• Sadie Gardine Lasley Memorial Scholarship
• Mary W. Lees Scholarship
• Marvin B. Lind Scholarship in Rural Sociology
• Robert O. Richards Memorial Writing Award
• George Henry and Maude Drew Von Tungeln Scholarship
• The Sociology Department Achievement Award
• Alpha Kappa Delta - Academic Advancement Scholarship

The Bachelor of Science in Rural Sociology at Iowa State University is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the social, economic, and environmental factors that influence rural communities. The curriculum emphasizes the study of rural development, agricultural sociology, community organization, and policy analysis. Students gain insights into the challenges faced by rural populations, including access to resources, sustainable agricultural practices, and social justice issues. The program prepares graduates for careers in rural community planning, agricultural consulting, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and research institutions. It offers a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical skills through coursework, fieldwork, internships, and research projects. The faculty are recognized experts in the fields of sociology and rural development, offering students mentorship and opportunities to engage in innovative research. The program also encourages interdisciplinary collaboration, integrating perspectives from economics, environmental science, and public policy. With its emphasis on real-world applications, students develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills essential for addressing the complex issues facing rural areas today. Iowa State University’s strong connections with local communities, government agencies, and industry partners provide students with valuable networking opportunities and experiential learning. The program aims to produce well-rounded graduates capable of contributing to sustainable rural development and improving quality of life in rural populations. Overall, the Rural Sociology program at Iowa State University equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to become leaders and change agents in rural communities across the United States and beyond.