Master of Professional Studies (Social Entrepreneurship)

Master's

Master of Professional Studies (Social Entrepreneurship)

Hours: 30 Online

About

The Master of Professional Studies (Social Entrepreneurship) at Fort Hays State University is a forward-thinking 30-credit program designed to empower students to drive sustainable changes through social innovation and entrepreneurial leadership. It prepares students to create and lead both nonprofit and for-profit social enterprises that tackle pressing social challenges with innovative solutions. Whether students aspire to launch new ventures or strengthen existing organizations, the program equips graduates to make a meaningful social impact in communities around the world.

Focusing on the development of entrepreneurial skills essential for managing and growing social enterprises, the curriculum covers critical areas such as nonprofit leadership, grant writing, and social innovation. By integrating business principles with social change initiatives, this program offers a distinctive approach. It is the only program in Kansas specifically dedicated to social entrepreneurship to address environmental concerns, social justice, and economic inequality.

Why pursue a Master of Professional Studies (Social Entrepreneurship) at Fort Hays State University?

FHSU’s Master of Professional Studies (Social Entrepreneurship) is the only program of its kind in Kansas. It provides specialized education that integrates social work leadership with business economics and human resource management. The program cultivates a comprehensive understanding of how to apply professional studies principles to real-world challenges, preparing students to become successful social entrepreneurs.

Who is this program for?

This program is designed for:

Aspiring and current social entrepreneurs
Professionals in nonprofit and for-profit sectors looking to impact social change
Individuals interested in innovative solutions to pressing global and local issues
Working professionals seeking an online program to balance with other commitments

Learning Outcomes

The coursework in the Master of Professional Studies (Social Entrepreneurship) develops essential skills for leading successful initiatives in both nonprofit and for-profit sectors focused on social impact. Graduates will be able to:

Develop Innovative Solutions for Social Issues

Through specialized coursework in social innovation, project management, and sustainable business practices, students learn to design and implement creative solutions to pressing social challenges. Graduates are prepared to initiate and lead projects that create measurable, positive impacts within communities.

Build and Lead Social Enterprises

Graduates gain a deep understanding of the complexities involved in financial and human resource management within social enterprises through comprehensive studies in business economics and leadership. This expertise enables them to effectively build and lead teams, ensuring that social enterprises remain impactful and sustainable.

Evaluate and Scale Social Impact

Students develop proficiency in using statistical tools and research methods to measure the effectiveness of social programs. This training equips graduates to assess the impact of their initiatives accurately and to refine and expand them to reach broader populations.

Navigate Global and Local Social Entrepreneurship Environments

The program offers courses on international social entrepreneurship and environmental issues, enabling students to develop a nuanced understanding of how both global and local factors influence social entrepreneurship efforts. Graduates are prepared to apply this knowledge in designing initiatives that are culturally sensitive and environmentally responsible.

Create Sustainable Business Models

The program emphasizes coursework in grant writing and financial management, teaching students how to secure funding and manage resources effectively. This preparation ensures graduates can maintain the financial sustainability of their enterprises while expanding their social impact over time.

Real-World Applications

The program includes a required internship in advanced grant writing, during which students conduct a needs assessment for a nonprofit, draft a technical grant proposal, and may submit it to potential funders. This hands-on experience with real-world organizations enhances practical skills and ensures graduates are well-prepared to make meaningful contributions in the field.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

The curriculum is continuously updated to reflect the latest advancements in social entrepreneurship and related fields. Faculty members remain current with emerging research and theories, integrating these insights into the coursework to ensure students stay at the forefront of social innovation.

Hands-on Activities

The Master of Professional Studies (Social Entrepreneurship) incorporates hands-on activities that are central to the learning experience. A key component is the advanced grant writing internship, which requires students to work directly with public sector and nonprofit organizations, applying their knowledge in real-world contexts.

In addition to the internship, the program offers a range of experiential learning opportunities. These include field courses that provide firsthand exploration of environmental and social issues, research projects that enable students to investigate and develop practical solutions, and participation in conferences and workshops that foster professional networking and skill development.

What You’ll Learn:

Develop and manage innovative social enterprises
Strategic financial and human resource management in social projects
Build leadership skills in social entrepreneurship
Navigate and solve pressing social problems
Drive sustainable change through innovative solutions

How You’ll Learn:

Engage in real-world projects with existing organizations
Apply your knowledge through case studies and a capstone project
Learn from experienced faculty members in social entrepreneurship
Participate in online discussions to explore various social innovation challenges
Choose elective courses tailored to your interests in social issues

Courses

The core curriculum encompasses courses in project management, financial management, marketing, and communication skills, all specifically designed to support the development of social enterprises. Elective courses offer opportunities for further specialization in areas such as climate change, international development, and other related fields.

SOC 664G: Social Entrepreneurship and Grassroots Social Action

This course covers social entrepreneurship, helping students 1) identify needs, 2) understand existing efforts, 3) design community projects, and 4) create a social action plan, ideal for those pursuing skills or careers in social entrepreneurship.

SOC 680G: Nonprofit Organizations

This course explores managing non-profits versus for-profits, covering nonprofit incorporation, mission development, and tax exemption. Students will learn about leadership, strategic planning, financial management, and marketing for nonprofits.

SOC 679F: Community Theory and Development

This course offers a dynamic exploration of community from a sociological perspective, including human relationship patterns, ecology, social networks, and social capital. Students will engage in theoretical analysis and apply their knowledge through assignments and activities.

Discover the full Master of Professional Studies (Social Entrepreneurship) course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.

Career Prospects

Graduates are equipped for diverse career paths where they can apply their skills in project management, leadership, and social innovation. Alumni have successfully transitioned into roles across multiple sectors, using their expertise to create and sustain socially responsible ventures and initiatives. Career opportunities include:

Nonprofit Executive Director

Nonprofit executive directors are responsible for overseeing the operations, fundraising, and strategic direction of nonprofit organizations. Graduates in this role align organizational goals with community needs, ensure effective service delivery, and maintain long-term impact.

Social Enterprise Consultant

Social enterprise consultants advise startups and established organizations on incorporating social innovation into their business models. They assist companies in implementing strategies that generate positive social impact while sustaining profitability.

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Manager

CSR managers work within corporate settings to develop and implement strategies that strengthen the company’s social responsibility. Their role often includes managing community outreach programs, sustainability efforts, and ethical labor practices.

Community Development Manager

Community development managers focus on enhancing community infrastructure and services through collaborative projects involving local government, the private sector, and residents. They plan and execute development initiatives that address critical social issues such as housing, education, and healthcare.

Policy Analyst for Social Policy Organizations

Policy analysts research, analyze, and develop solutions to social challenges at the municipal, state, or national level. They play a vital role in shaping legislation and public initiatives addressing issues such as poverty, educational inequality, and healthcare reform.

Admission Requirements

Fort Hays State University values diverse backgrounds and the unique perspectives that students bring. The admissions process is designed to identify individuals who are committed to social change and prepared to thrive in a rigorous academic environment. To be considered for the Master of Professional Studies (Social Entrepreneurship), applicants must meet the following criteria:

Academic Achievement

Prospective students must demonstrate academic capability by maintaining a minimum 3.0 GPA in their final 60 undergraduate credit hours. This requirement ensures that all students possess a strong educational foundation for advanced studies in social entrepreneurship.

Personal Statement

Applicants are required to submit a 1–2-page personal statement outlining their interest in social entrepreneurship, career goals, and how the program will help them achieve these objectives. The statement should also demonstrate the applicant’s understanding of social issues and their motivation to address these challenges through the Master of Professional Studies (Social Entrepreneurship).

Letters of Recommendation

Applicants must submit two letters of recommendation that provide insight into their abilities and character. One letter should come from an academic source, such as a professor or advisor, who can speak to the applicant’s scholarly strengths and potential for graduate study. The second letter should be from a professional contact, such as a supervisor or colleague, who can attest to the applicant’s leadership skills and dedication to social entrepreneurship.

The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere

Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $3,139.02* (online) per semester.

*Estimated cost based on 9 credit hours at the FHSU Online Graduate tuition rate ($348.78/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.

Ready for the next step?

Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.

Apply

Related Programs

Fort Hays State University recognizes the interdisciplinary nature of social entrepreneurship. The Master of Professional Studies (Social Entrepreneurship) is part of a broader academic community offering complementary programs that provide diverse perspectives and specialized knowledge to enhance entrepreneurial skills for driving social change.

FAQ

What distinguishes the Master of Professional Studies (Social Entrepreneurship)?

This program is unique as the only fully online, self-paced option in its field. It emphasizes practical, real-world applications and offers flexible elective courses, allowing students to tailor their studies to their interests and career goals. The curriculum integrates current theories and practices, keeping students up to date with the latest advancements in social entrepreneurship.

How does the program cover various aspects of social entrepreneurship?

Our program offers practical knowledge through a mix of required and elective courses. Core classes focus on essential skills like project management, financial management, and grant writing, while electives explore topics such as sustainable business, international social entrepreneurship, and public sector challenges. This comprehensive approach provides students with a strong foundation in both theory and practice.

Are there specific concentrations or tracks within the Master of Professional Studies (Social Entrepreneurship) program?

While the Master of Professional Studies (Social Entrepreneurship) does not offer formal concentrations or tracks, the program offers flexibility through elective courses. This allows students to tailor their studies to align with their career goals, whether in environmental issues, nonprofit management, or for-profit social ventures.

What career opportunities or ventures does completing a Master of Professional Studies (Social Entrepreneurship) offer?

Graduates are prepared for leadership roles such as nonprofit executive directors, social enterprise consultants, and corporate social responsibility managers. They may also pursue careers in community development and policy analysis, influencing social policy and planning. The degree equips students to launch and sustain impactful ventures that address critical social needs, fostering a meaningful and purpose-driven career.

Information about the School of Criminal Justice, Leadership, and Sociology

FHSU’s School of Criminal Justice, Leadership, and Sociology brings together a diverse range of programs dedicated to preparing students for impactful careers in law enforcement, leadership, and social sciences. Our integrated approach allows students to develop critical skills across these disciplines, fostering an environment where future leaders and professionals are equipped to address complex societal challenges. The Criminal Justice programs offer flexible online and on-campus options, focusing on law enforcement, corrections, and legal systems with a strong emphasis on leadership and integrity. The Leadership programs develop essential organizational skills through interactive coursework and internships, supported by the Leadership Studies Association and VALUE program. Sociology programs delve into social life, behavior, and community issues, emphasizing research and critical thinking. Together, these programs foster cross-disciplinary learning, empowering students to lead and innovate within their communities and beyond.

Together, these programs create a robust educational experience that encourages cross-disciplinary learning and collaboration. Students are empowered to lead, innovate, and contribute meaningfully to their communities and the broader society. Whether you are passionate about justice, leadership, or sociology, FHSU’s School of Criminal Justice, Leadership, and Sociology provides the knowledge and skills necessary to make a lasting impact.

Student Organizations

Additional Information

Criminal Justice Centers

National De-escalation Training Center:

Fort Hays State University’s Criminal Justice Program and University Police joined the National De-escalation Training Center (NDTC) in August 2020 as Region 2 Central Region Training Center. As a regional center, FHSU facilitates the only Level 3 de-escalation training available in the United States.

Level 1 training includes traditional techniques of procedural justice.
Level 2 provides basic crisis intervention.
Level 3 augments traditional de-escalation and crisis intervention with rapid personality identification.

The NDTC De-escalation: Principles & Practice course is evidence-based and has increased officer confidence in utilizing de-escalation skills in working with the public.

FHSU facilitates NDTC’s three training modalities, including an 8-hour online training, two-day face-to-face training, and a 40-hour train-the-trainer program. Due to FHSU’s $2.75 million federal grant funding, the face-to-face trainings can be provided at no cost to agencies. Scholarships may be available for agencies to train officers in the online course.

NDTC training is approved by the U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Community-Oriented Policing Services (COPS) and certified by the International Association of Directors of Law Enforcement Standards and Training (IADLEST).

Center for Empowering Victims of Gender-based Violence:

The Center for Empowering Victims of Gender-based Violence is a regional hub of collaborative research and service, housed in the Criminal Justice Programs at Fort Hays State University. The Center for Empowering Victims of Gender-based Violence aims to reduce the constraints facing survivors, to promote the freedom of economic independence, and to empower survivors to seize opportunity freely. The center commits to providing sustainable support and improvement to help survivors break the cycle of violence and transform themselves from victims/survivors to social entrepreneurs. The Center facilitates cross-disciplinary research focusing on the causes and control of gender-based violence in rural areas. It leads and facilitates collaborative networks for researchers to apply evidence-based approaches and to investigate best practices addressing gender-based violence in rural communities. The Center establishes and develops academic-community collaborations through service-learning, research, assessment, and educational opportunities and policy recommendations that enhance the well-being of rural communities.

VALUE Program:

The Voss Advanced Leadership Undergraduate Experience (VALUE) is designed to develop the most promising undergraduates into powerful agents of change. This year-long program offers curricular and co-curricular experiences with three tracks: corporate leadership, civic/non-profit leadership, and scholarship/leadership research.

CNN Heroes Advisory Board:

The Sociology Programs emphasize real-world impact through training in projects designed to help those in need. A notable project involves collaboration with CNN Heroes, individuals recognized for their exceptional work in nonprofit organizations. The CNN Heroes Advisory Board, composed of these national heroes, provides insights and advice to students based on their successful experiences in the nonprofit sector.

Social Entrepreneurship

Master's

Online

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