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Community and Nonprofit Leadership
The Bachelor of Science in Community and Nonprofit Leadership at the University of Wisconsin provides students with the knowledge and practical skills to become leaders in the community development and nonprofit sectors. This four-year, full-time program focuses on understanding and addressing social issues, community needs, and economic challenges through effective leadership and collaboration. Students will explore the principles of community organizing, nonprofit management, and social entrepreneurship, while also learning how to design and implement programs and policies that enhance the quality of life in local, national, and global communities.
The program combines theory with hands-on experience, offering students opportunities to engage in fieldwork, internships, and community service projects. Students will gain a deep understanding of topics such as fundraising, grant writing, social justice, and program evaluation, which are essential for leading and managing nonprofit organizations and community-focused initiatives. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in community development, nonprofit management, advocacy, and public policy, or for further studies in social work, public administration, or urban planning.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Community and Nonprofit Leadership
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Science
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 15 January 2026
- Location: University of Wisconsin, United States
- Field of Study: Community Development
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations in Community Development and Leadership
- Introduction to Community and Nonprofit Leadership
- Principles of Sociology and Social Problems
- Introduction to Public Policy and Governance
- Principles of Human Services and Social Welfare
- Introduction to Economics and Community Development
Year 2 – Intermediate Nonprofit Management and Social Issues
- Nonprofit Organizational Management and Leadership
- Fundraising and Resource Development for Nonprofits
- Social Justice and Community Advocacy
- Introduction to Grant Writing and Proposal Development
- Social and Economic Inequality: Causes and Solutions
Year 3 – Advanced Community Leadership and Program Development
- Community Organizing and Mobilization
- Program Design, Implementation, and Evaluation
- Public Relations and Communications for Nonprofits
- Leadership and Ethics in Community and Nonprofit Sectors
- Financial Management for Nonprofits and Social Enterprises
Year 4 – Capstone Project, Internship, and Career Development
- Capstone Project in Community and Nonprofit Leadership: Applied Project or Research
- Internship in Community Development, Nonprofit Management, or Social Services
- Advanced Seminar in Nonprofit Leadership and Social Entrepreneurship
- Professional Development: Networking, Job Search, and Career Planning
- Graduate School Preparation in Social Work, Public Administration, or Nonprofit Management
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Bachelor of Science in Community and Nonprofit Leadership from the University of Wisconsin are equipped to take on leadership roles in a variety of community development and nonprofit organizations. Many graduates work in nonprofit management, overseeing operations, fundraising efforts, and community outreach programs. Others find opportunities in community organizing, helping mobilize people and resources to address local issues such as poverty, education, and healthcare. Graduates can also work in government agencies, social advocacy organizations, or public policy roles, designing and implementing programs that benefit underserved populations. In addition, some students choose to pursue further studies in social work, urban planning, or public administration to specialize in areas like community health, public policy, or social services.
Why Choose This Program
The Bachelor of Science in Community and Nonprofit Leadership at the University of Wisconsin offers a comprehensive education for those passionate about making a difference in their communities. The program emphasizes leadership, social change, and collaboration, giving students the tools to effectively address social inequalities, economic challenges, and community needs. With a blend of academic coursework, field-based learning, and opportunities for internships, students gain practical experience in leading and managing community-driven programs and nonprofit organizations. Whether you are interested in community advocacy, program management, or social entrepreneurship, the program provides the skills and knowledge needed to become a change-maker in the nonprofit and public sectors.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 608-262-2433
Email: admissions@grad.wisc.edu
Address: 217 Bascom Hall, 500 Lincoln Drive, Madison, WI 53706, USA
