Module Outline

What is Rural?

This module discusses definitions of urban, rural and frontier according to a number of sources.  It also reviews how rural and urban communities differ or are similar in several measures of demographics, economics, education. 

Module Author

Mark Deutchman, MD

Dr. Deutchman is a Professor of Family Medicine at the University of Colorado. He directs the Rural Program and serves as Associate Dean for Rural Health.  He has a background in the practice of rural Family Medicine in Washington State.  

Learning Objectives

After completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • Explain several definitions of rural, urban and frontier and know where those definitions originate. 
  • Identify urban, rural and frontier areas of Colorado.
  • Discuss some of the factors that often distinguish rural communities from urban communities.