PPM 535 | Managing Government and Nonprofits

Course Description

“This course provides students with an introduction to the field of public and nonprofit management and an understanding of the institutional, political, organizational, and ethical challenges of operating public organizations. There will be special attention to how nonprofit and public organizations are functioning in the “new normal” of greater need, concentrated wealth, increased poverty and decreased social mobility, and its effects on enhancing connections and building collaboration between public, nonprofit and private sector organizations and the communities they serve. Students will explore the similarities and differences between public, nonprofit and private organizations, evaluate the environment of public organizations, consider the importance of working in diverse communities and identify how different structural and environmental factors constrain and enhance the ability of managers to achieve their organization’s mission. Through case work and learning opportunities in the field, students will explore in-depth many current management issues, diagnose problems and develop feasible solutions by applying theories and frameworks to “real world” problems in public and nonprofit organizations as well as develop management tools and skills needed for directing programs, people and resources to solve complex problems.”—Muskie School of Public Service Course Guide

Highlighted Work | Nonprofit Case Study

This case study looks at the challenges facing a nonprofit wildlife rehabilitation facility and makes recommendations for a successful path forward to continue serving the region.