R1 Ranked
NDSU is among the nation’s top research institutions
Top 2%
NDSU researchers are among the top two percent of scientists in the world
96%
Recent graduates employed full-time
Top 100
Public research university in the country with $190 million in research expenditures
Elevate your career and transform communities with NDSU's graduate-level community development degree program. Offered by the Department of Sociology and Anthropology, the community development degree is available as a 36-credit-hour Master of Science or Master of Arts, or a 12-credit-hour graduate certificate program equipped for community economic development officials, community leaders, practitioners and specialists already in the field. Graduates emerge as catalysts for impactful social, economic, cultural and environmental improvements — ready to excel in government service, public policy, youth development, advocacy, education and beyond.
Explore the Curriculum
- Master’s Online
- Graduate Certificate Online
Capture the Moment at NDSU
Shape Your Future
NDSU students are encouraged to collaborate with an advisor and develop a unique program of study that meets their specific interests.
Flexible Curriculum
The fully online degree creates flexibility for balancing your studies with your professional life.
Partnership with IDEA
Designed for professionals nationwide, the online, multi-institutional program is offered through a partnership with the Innovative Digital Education Alliance that allows you to take classes with any of the 19 other partner universities across the country to gain practical skills, vital knowledge and build robust networks.
Tuition and Funding
NDSU offers a high-quality, academically rigorous education at an affordable cost. To help you cover tuition and expenses, various departments offer graduate assistantships designed to support your academic and professional goals.
Admission Info
At NDSU, we welcome students from all backgrounds who are seeking to further their education within a supportive, welcoming community.
No matter your academic path, we're committed to making your application process straightforward and stress-free. Find the specific requirements and steps for your graduate application.

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Master’s
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Master’s
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Master’s, Graduate Certificate
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Master’s
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Master’s, Graduate Certificate
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Graduate Certificate
Connect with Graduate Admission
Meet with a graduate admission representative to learn more about graduate programs, costs and application requirements.
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Receive personalized information about your program of interest and see how NDSU supports your academic and career goals.
Additional Resources
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