Nonprofit Management - Master of Public Administration
MPA | Department of Political Science and Public Administration

Challenged by the demand of providing more services with fewer resources? Just promoted into a nonprofit management position? Thinking about starting your own nonprofit? Preparing your agency for the challenges of the managed care environment? To prepare new and experienced nonprofit managers to lead effectively, Roosevelt University, through its Public Administration Program, offers a concentration in nonprofit management leading to the MPA degree. Roosevelt University also offers a Certificate in Nonprofit Management.

Who the Program Is Designed to Serve

Roosevelt's MPA program largely serves working professionals, many of whom are returning to school. Classes are held on weekday evenings. Classes are interactive, drawing on the extensive expertise of students. Instructors balance theory and practice. Faculty are first and foremost teachers and advisors, but they are also researchers and consultants in their field of interest. The nonprofit management concentration is designed for practicing and aspiring administrators of nonprofit organizations.  The courses use case studies and emphasize hands-on application of resource management techniques.  This is a practical education that is immediately useful.  Classes are taught by an instructor who eases students back into the classroom by building on students' experiences.

Degree Requirements and Courses Offered

The program requires the completion of 12 (for experienced managers) or 13 (for new managers) courses. The curriculum consists of "core" courses in public service management and research methods, specialized courses in nonprofit management, and the completion of either a practicum (field-based problem solving project) or thesis. Current nonprofit-relevant course offerings include (consult the catalog for details):

• The Nonprofit Sector in the United States examines the history, structure, and purpose of the nonprofit sector in the U.S.
• Human Relations in Nonprofit Organizations focuses on managing staff, volunteers, and board relations in the nonprofit context
• Resource Development in Nonprofit Organizations explores fundraising, marketing, and strategic planning for nonprofit organizations
• Financial Management of Health Service Organizations
• Managed Care and Integrated Service Networks

Admissions Requirements

Applicants with an undergraduate grade point average of 3.0 or higher are admitted based upon previous academic performance and evaluation of a one to two page essay outlining their goals and aspirations in seeking an MPA degree. Applicants with an undergraduate grade point average below 3.0 will be considered on the basis of the above plus additional supporting materials.

Faculty