Interested in developing a for-profit or a non-profit enterprise? In this program, we will help you pursue your goals wisely by conducting a pragmatic study of how both for-profits and non-profits function. We will study for-profit and non-profit models within the current context of late-stage capitalism, so as to understand how “traditional” market values like competition, efficiency, professionalization, and other business concepts dominant in today’s world influence both for-profit and non-profit organizations. We will also examine for-profits and non-profits through a critical lens by examining how these models have been shaped by capitalism and colonialism.

Students will explore concepts of marketization, altruism, impact, civic engagement, cultural conceptions about monetary and nonmonetary value, redefining professionalism, and more. Some central questions will include: What are some of the “taken for granted” notions which for-profits and nonprofits are founded upon? Does marketization and monetization have to move us away from the foundational values of solidarity and equity? How might we design or re-design organizations that are both financially sustainable and in alignment with community values?  

Through case studies and research students will explore possible alternatives and innovations to both for-profit and nonprofit models and emerge with increased clarity about where their future work may fit within these evolving sectors that make up our changing economy.  

In addition to attending class each week, 2.5 hours of learning each week is conducted asynchronously -- i.e., scheduled on your own each week. This asynchronous learning consists of Canvas modules (including recorded lectures, film, individual research, workshops, and discussion board assignments) as well as an independent studies that will involve additional field observations and research. 

Anticipated Credit Equivalencies:

4 - Organizational Leadership and Management  

4 - Socioeconomics