Welcome to SEDRD

The University of Guelph’s School of Environmental Design and Rural Development (SEDRD) brings together major academic fields concerned with creating strong communities, in Canada and around the world. The School has six programs: Landscape Architecture (BLA and MLA), Rural Planning and Development (MSc and MPlan), Capacity Development and Extension (MSc), and Rural Studies (PhD). SEDRD reflects the imperatives in building authentic communities where planners, leaders, communicators, landscape architects, the citizens and politicians all play important interdependent roles in community strength.

Rural town streetscape intersection, view of old heritage building

Capacity Development and Extension

Supports communities in Canada and around the world through learning, advocacy and communication.

Students standing at drafting table receiving advice on landscape drawings

Landscape Architecture

Combines art and science to design attractive, functional and sustainable outdoor spaces for everyone to enjoy.

Aeriel view of five students sitting in a circle

Rural Planning and Development

Conducts interdisciplinary research and guides processes of change in rural communities.

Farmers field with large solar panel

Rural Studies

Explores the components for capacity development, design and planning of landscapes and rural communities.