MNA Course Highlights

2 credits
Accounting principles and practices are presented as they apply to not-for-profit
organizations. The course objective is to provide a working knowledge of basic
accounting concepts, standard accounting reports, generation and use of accounting
information, and other subjects with particular relevance to the not-for-profit sector.

2 credits
Catholic Social Teaching involves a very defined body of writings that apply the
teachings of the Church to the social, political, and economic realities of the human
condition. Students will analyze the content and origin of this literature with application
to the current and economic challenges.

2 credits
The focus of this course is on developing students’ capacity to analyze and design operating processes by using information technologies to analyze data. Projects are designed to teach students how to interpret and weigh data, as well as how to use mathematical/computer models as tools for effective decision making and refinement of functional and strategic processes.

2 credits
This course is concerned with the application of microeconomic principles to the managerial decision-making process with extensive applications to the not-for-profit sector. The course will analyze the demand for services; the cost to the agency of providing those the external markets within which those services are provided services; and the internal organizational architecture of the agency providing the services. Some key concepts to be discussed under these major topic headings are demand elasticity, incremental cost, the competitive assumption of perfect information, price discrimination, barriers to entry and assignment of decision rights.

2 credits
This course examines a range of ethical issues and value dilemmas facing the not-for-profit manager and the not-for-profit organization. Emphasis is given to the formulation and implementation of organizational social policy, the development of sensitivity to moral and economic values within situations, and the ability to examine complex ethical situations and reach decisions for action. The role of the not-for-profit manager as both a professional and ethical leader is explored through case studies which examine ethical issues in contemporary nonprofit organizations.

2 credits
This course will benefit those in management in not-for-profit financial issues. Topics covered include accountability and stewardship, the finance function in a mission driven organization, fiscal operations and functions, external constituencies, reporting and compliance, operating budgets, program planning, strategic management, and internal financial reporting.

2 credits
This course provides a comprehensive overview of fundraising for individuals looking to expand their knowledge. We will explore a variety of fundraising methods and theories. By utilizing case studies, completing relevant projects and engaging in group discussion, students will learn how to apply fundraising strategies within the nonprofit sector. This course will also study the role of board, staff and volunteers in developing effective fundraising strategies. Students will expand their understanding of fundraising operations and reflect on current philanthropic issues confronting nonprofit organizations.

2 credits
Proceeding from a discussion of various theories of managing people in organizations, this course enhances management skills and the understanding of how different strategies are most effectively employed in not-for-profit organizations. Management of both professional staff and volunteers are emphasized, as are the skills needed to work effectively with trustees and boards.

2 credits
This course examines the historical context of the nonprofit sector, its role and development within the United States. Additionally, this course will explore the innovative concepts, practices, and strategies associated with social entrepreneurship, including its growing trend both domestically and internationally toward multiple definitions and widespread applications in both the nonprofit and for-profit settings. Students will be challenged to develop their own innovative ideas/opportunities in terms of a social venture plan, first exploring the idea’s feasibility. Topics covered throughout the course include developing a strategic vision/mission, exploring the competitive market/landscape, as well as creating business models, including management, legal and funding issues, and developing a SRO (Social Return on Investment) framework.

2 credits
The course provides the basic concepts of the laws and regulations governing not-for-profit organizations. Specific topics include an introduction to the origins of law, legal reasoning, the judicial process, torts, contracts, and employment law. Ethical considerations for NFP organizations when making law related decisions are addressed throughout the course.

2 credits
This course focuses on the communications role and responsibilities of not-for-profit managers with external constituents as well as boards of directors. Starting with the fundamentals of writing and speaking, this course emphasizes the development of the ability to advocate persuasively as part of an overall marketing strategy.

2 credits
This course will challenge students to consider a paradigm shift in traditional program centric thinking for the nonprofit entity in favor of a mission centric approach that is focused on social impact, outcomes and the metrics that measure success. Students will consider emerging trends in an era of shrinking government and foundation funding, study how nonprofits have begun to embrace new models for connecting mission with impact, learn how to use a theory of change and logic model as practical tools for reimagining program design, and understand key leadership challenges in leading a successful change effort.

2 credits
This course discusses the marketing needs and approaches particular to not-for-profit organizations as they seek to build recognition for the value of the services they provide. Course focuses include development of the skills needed to create, implement and refine effective not-for-profit marketing programs. Coursework emphasizes skills and techniques used to develop innovative marketing plans that promote interest in the products, services and people which comprise not-for-profit organizations.

8 credits
This course will be offered during the duration of the Master of Nonprofit Administration degree, and will be offered in two parts. The first segment, the Practicum, will place candidates with local, regional, national, or international nonprofit and/or social enterprise organizations in order to afford candidates to gain valuable field experience within these agencies, while also providing an opportunity for them to turn theory into practice. Candidates will complete a mutually-agreed upon project at the agency during Fall Semester. In Spring, candidate and organizations will engage in faculty-led discussions centered around the work completed in Fall.

2 credits
The course is designed to integrate the knowledge, skills and techniques obtained from previous courses. Emphasis will be placed on the formulation of a not-for-profit organizational strategy through the development of a mission statement, strategic objectives and plans for implementation of the strategy.