Academics

PUBP 613 | 3 credits

This course will cover the scope and significance of the nonprofit sector, voluntary action, and philanthropy; history and theories of the nonprofit sector, voluntary action and philanthropy. Includes an examination of policy environment, funding constraints, and other management issues facing non-profit organizations and their leaders. Theoretical literature as well as case studies will be utilized.

BUAD 5006 | 3 credits

This course will convey a baseline understanding of critical financial management issues and practices for nonprofit organizations. Students will learn about the key financial principles and practices that support the sustainability and mission advancement of nonprofit organizations. The course will cover various revenue sources, financial planning, budgeting, and the importance of transparency and accountability in financial reporting. Additionally, students will explore investment strategies, endowment management, and the role of financial management during strategic transitions. The course emphasizes the importance of financial literacy among managers and board members to ensure effective oversight and governance.

BUAD 5016 | 3 credits

This course will examine the application of marketing principles to nonprofit contexts, through strategies such as social marketing and resource development. Special emphasis will be given to ensuring that all marketing and communications support the organization's mission while upholding ethical standards. This course will also examine resource development by analyzing the structures and processes of organized fundraising, including annual funds, planned giving, major gifts, foundation and corporate contributions, and special events. In addition, strategic branding and storytelling for nonprofits will empower future leaders to craft compelling narratives that not only communicate impact but also strengthen the organization's identity and engagement with its stakeholders.

BUAD 5026 | 3 credits

This course examines the transformative role of information technology, data analytics, and emerging innovations in enhancing the operational and strategic capabilities of nonprofit organizations. Students will explore how nonprofits leverage information and communications technologies (ICTs) for advocacy, stakeholder engagement, and resource optimization, while addressing ethical considerations such as data privacy (e.g., GDPR compliance) and AI bias mitigation. The curriculum covers data governance frameworks, including stewardship roles, centralized databases, and policies for secure data storage and access, alongside methodologies to assess data quality (e.g., accuracy, completeness, timeliness). Participants will also analyze evidence-based practices and technologies like AI-driven platforms and visualization tools to measure program effectiveness, track outcomes, and align metrics with mission-driven goals.

BUAD 5996 | 3 credits

This course is designed to consolidate students' learning and provide an opportunity to engage in individual leadership projects. Students will apply the knowledge and skills acquired throughout their program to develop and execute a comprehensive project that addresses a real-world issue within the nonprofit sector. The course emphasizes critical thinking, strategic planning, effective project management, leadership skills, presentation delivery, and communication excellence, allowing students to demonstrate their proficiency and readiness for professional practice. Through guided mentorship and peer collaboration, students will refine their projects and present their findings, showcasing their ability to contribute meaningfully to the field of nonprofit management.

BUAD 6006 | 3 credits

The course is designed to expose students to the breadth of nonprofit organizations and organizational work. It will include multiple short-term organizational rotations, each of which will involve both volunteer work and shadowing back-office activities. In addition, students will also be paired with a DC-area mentor for real-world advice and guidance on how to build a career in nonprofit management.

BUAD 6116 | 3 credits

This course provides depth t the student's nonprofit experience by immersing students in a 20-hour-a-week, program-approved internship at a DC-area non-profit organization that meaningfully engages students in organizational management activities. Alternatively, students may choose to participate in a DC-based Incubator/Accelerator for non-profits (e.g., SEED SPOT, Global Development Incubator, PeaceTech Lab, Halcyon, Village Capital, etc.).

LAW 473-01 | 3 credits

Students will simulate the creation, management and dissolution of non-profit organizations to explore the legal issues they face. All students will focus on creating a tax-exempt organization at the state and federal levels, fundraising, unrelated business income, lobbying and political activity, board of directors and managerial liability, and dissolving the organization. Students taking the course for three units will do additional work on the distinction between public charities and private foundations, complex business opportunities, and nonprofit accountability.

BUAD 5XXX | 3 credits

This course provides a broad overview of nonprofit leadership and management, focusing on the theories and practices that support effective and sustainable organizations. Students will explore the roles of volunteer and paid staff leaders, the dynamics of multiple stakeholders, and the importance of managing collaborations and partnerships. Additionally, students will examine the planning and implementation of strategic human resource management and talent management in nonprofit organizations.

• ANTH 450 | Archaeology conservation
• ANTH 457 | Archaeology/ Col Williamsburg
• ANTH 484 | Collecting/ exhibiting culture
• BUAD 462/6731 | Healthcare Informatics
• BUAD 6451 | Creative Problem Solving
• BUAD 6621 | Project Management
• BUAD 6661 | Lean Six Sigma
• BUAD 6851 | Design Thinking
• BUAD 6861 | Entrepreneurial Ventures
• EPPL 503 | Higher Education Organizations and Contexts
• EPPL 733-01 | Seminar on Legal Issues in Education
• HIST 590 | History Museums & Historical Preservation, Public History, Public History in the 21st Century
• Students may also petition for the inclusion of select graduate courses