Master of Professional Studies in Social Entrepreneurship
Hours: 30 Online
About
The Master of Professional Studies (MPS) in Social Entrepreneurship at Fort Hays State University is an innovative 30-credit program designed to empower students to initiate sustainable change through social innovation and entrepreneurship. This program equips students with the skills to create and lead nonprofit and for-profit social enterprises that address pressing social problems with innovative solutions. Whether aiming to start new enterprises or enhance existing organizations, this degree prepares graduates to make a positive social impact in communities worldwide.
The MPS in Social Entrepreneurship focuses on developing the entrepreneurial skills necessary to manage and grow social enterprises. The curriculum covers key concepts in nonprofit leadership, grant writing, and social innovation, leveraging business principles to drive social change. This program is unique in Kansas for its dedicated focus on social entrepreneurship as a pathway to addressing environmental issues, social justice, and economic disparities.
Why pursue a Master of Professional Studies in Social Entrepreneurship at Fort Hays State University?
Fort Hays State University's MPS in Social Entrepreneurship stands alone in Kansas. It offers specialized education combining social work leadership skills with business economics and human resource management. Our program fosters a deep understanding of how to apply professional studies principles to real-world challenges, helping you develop as a successful social entrepreneur.
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 MPS in Social Entrepreneurship encompasses skills essential for leading successful initiatives in nonprofit and for-profit sectors focused on social impact. Upon completing the degree, you will be able to:
Develop Innovative Solutions for Social Issues
Through targeted coursework on social innovation, project management, and sustainable business practices, students can craft and implement innovative solutions to pressing social problems. Graduates will be equipped to initiate and lead projects that make a tangible, positive impact on communities.
Build and Lead Social Enterprises
Graduates will understand the complexities of financial and human resource management within social enterprises, gained through comprehensive studies in business economics and leadership skills. This knowledge prepares them to effectively build and manage teams within social enterprises, ensuring these organizations are impactful and sustainable.
Evaluate and Scale Social Impact
Students will learn to use statistical tools and research methods to measure the effectiveness of social programs. This preparation enables graduates to assess the direct impact of their work and refine and scale their initiatives to serve larger populations.
Navigate Global and Local Social Entrepreneurship Environments
The program includes courses on international social entrepreneurship and environmental issues, allowing students to develop a nuanced understanding of how global and local conditions affect social entrepreneurship efforts. Graduates will be adept at applying this knowledge to create cross-cultural and environmentally sensitive initiatives.
Create Sustainable Business Models
The program emphasizes coursework in grant writing and financial management. It teaches students how to secure funding and manage resources efficiently, ensuring graduates can sustain their enterprises financially and expand their impact over time.
Real-World Applications
The Master of Professional Studies in Social Entrepreneurship program includes a required internship in advanced grant writing, where students perform a needs assessment for a nonprofit, draft a technical grant proposal, and potentially submit it to funders. This direct engagement with existing nonprofits enhances practical skills. It ensures our graduates are well-prepared to contribute effectively in the field.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
Our curriculum is continuously updated to include the latest advancements in social entrepreneurship and related fields. Faculty members stay abreast of current content, integrating cutting-edge research and theories into the coursework to keep students at the forefront of social innovation.
Hands-on Activities
The MPS in Social Entrepreneurship includes hands-on activities integral to the learning process. The internship in advanced grant writing is a cornerstone, requiring students to engage directly with the public sector and nonprofit organizations to apply their learning in real-world settings.
Besides the required internship, the program offers various opportunities for experiential learning, including field courses that explore environmental and social issues first-hand, research projects that allow students to investigate and develop solutions for real-world problems, and participation in conferences and workshops that enhance professional networking and learning.
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
The core curriculum includes courses on project management, financial management, marketing, and communication skills—all tailored to fostering social enterprises. Elective courses allow further specialization in climate change, international development, and more.
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 in Social Entrepreneurship course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.
The MPS in Social Entrepreneurship at Fort Hays State University prepares graduates for various career paths where they can apply their project management, leadership, and social innovation skills. Our alums have successfully transitioned into roles impacting multiple sectors, leveraging their expertise to create and sustain socially responsible ventures and initiatives. Career opportunities include:
Nonprofit Executive Director
Oversee operations, fundraising, and strategic direction of nonprofit organizations. Graduates in this role are responsible for aligning the organization's goals with community needs, ensuring effective service delivery, and sustaining impact.
Social Enterprise Consultant
Consultants in this field advise startups and existing organizations on integrating social innovation into their business models. They help companies implement practices that contribute to societal good while maintaining profitability.
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Manager
This role works within corporate settings to develop and implement strategies that enhance the company's social responsibility. It often involves managing community outreach programs, sustainability initiatives, and ethical labor practices.
Community Development Manager
This role focuses on improving community infrastructure and services through collaborative projects involving local government, private sectors, and residents. Planning and executing development projects that address social issues such as housing, education, and health services is crucial.
Policy Analyst for Social Policy Organizations
Research, analyze, and propose solutions to social problems at the municipal, state, or national level. Policy analysts are crucial in shaping legislation and public initiatives tackling poverty, education inequality, and healthcare reform.
Fort Hays State University values diverse backgrounds and students' unique perspectives. Our admission process is designed to identify individuals committed to social change and equipped to succeed in a challenging academic environment. To be considered for the MPS in Social Entrepreneurship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Academic Achievement
Prospective students should demonstrate their academic capability by maintaining a 3.0 GPA in their final 60 undergraduate credit hours. This requirement ensures all students have a solid educational foundation for advanced social entrepreneurship studies.
Personal Statement
Applicants must submit a personal statement of 1-2 pages explaining their interest in social entrepreneurship, their career goals, and why they believe this program will help them achieve them. The statement should also reflect the applicant's understanding of social issues and motivation to pursue solutions through this MPS in Social Entrepreneurship program.
Letters of Recommendation
Two letters of recommendation are required, providing insights into the applicant's capabilities and character. One letter should be from an academic source, such as a professor or advisor who can speak to the applicant's scholarly abilities and potential for graduate study. The second letter should come from a professional contact, such as a supervisor or colleague, who can attest to the applicant's leadership skills and commitment 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 $3,047.58* (Online)* per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 9 credit hours at the FHSU Online undergraduate tuition rate ($338.62/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.
Related Programs
At Fort Hays State University, we recognize the interconnectedness of various disciplines and how they contribute to a comprehensive understanding of social entrepreneurship. Our MPS in Social Entrepreneurship is part of a broader academic community that offers several programs that complement and enhance the entrepreneurial skills needed to drive social change. These programs are designed to provide diverse perspectives and specialized knowledge that can be integrated into your social entrepreneurship endeavors:
- Certificate in Grant Writing and Program Evaluation
- Master of Liberal Studies in Public Administration
- Certificate in Building a Career in a Nonprofit Corporation
The MPS in Social Entrepreneurship at Fort Hays State University stands out for its unique features. It is the only program that offers a comprehensive online format, allowing students to study at their own pace. The program's focus on practical, real-world applications sets it apart. It also provides flexibility with a wide range of elective courses that complement the core curriculum, enabling students to customize their education to their specific interests and career goals. The program's integration of current social entrepreneurship theories and practices ensures students are always up-to-date with the latest advancements and trends in the field.
Our program is a gateway to practical knowledge. It covers a broad spectrum of social entrepreneurship through a blend of required and elective courses. The core curriculum includes foundational courses in project management, financial management, and grant writing, which are crucial for leading social initiatives. Elective courses allow further exploration into specialized topics such as sustainable business practices, international social entrepreneurship, and public sector challenges. This comprehensive approach ensures students gain a robust understanding of social entrepreneurship's theoretical and practical elements.
While the MPS in Social Entrepreneurship does not offer formal concentrations or tracks, the program is designed to be highly customizable through its elective courses. This flexibility allows students to focus on areas matching their career aspirations and interests. Whether students are interested in environmental issues, nonprofit management, or innovative for-profit social ventures, they can select courses that align closely with their desired focus area.
Completing the MPS in Social Entrepreneurship is a gateway to a world of possibilities. Graduates can step into leadership roles, such as nonprofit executive directors, where they shape organizational strategies and operations. They can also become social enterprise consultants, guiding businesses in integrating social responsibility into their models, or corporate social responsibility managers, driving sustainable practices within large corporations. Roles in community development and policy analysis allow graduates to directly influence social policy and community planning. This degree equips students with the skills to launch and sustain impactful projects and enterprises that address critical social needs, inspiring a future filled with purpose and impact.
Department Information
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.
While earning your degree is your primary goal, college offers much more than just attending classes. Get involved in extracurricular activities that help you develop leadership skills, learn more about your chosen career, and make a difference in your community.
- Criminal Justice Club: The club meets weekly, with activities varying by semester based on student interest. Volunteer options are available through local groups such as:
- Delta Tau Omega: The FHSU Chapter of the American Criminal Justice Association, Delta Tau Omega, allows members to participate in national conferences and compete for scholarships.
- Sociology Club: Open to all students and majors, the Sociology Club encourages research on topics that can improve the community. The club collaborates with the FHSU community and local Hays residents, hosts events for student engagement, and participates in community service projects. The mission is to deepen interest in sociology and its role in understanding society and improving the human condition.
- Alpha Kappa Delta: Students majoring in sociology may be eligible for membership in Alpha Kappa Delta, the sociology honorary society. The society promotes scholarship and fellowship for students at both the graduate and undergraduate levels. Membership requirements include junior standing and a minimum 3.0 GPA in sociology, with at least 12 hours of sociology coursework.
- Leadership Studies Association: The Leadership Studies Association exists to allow students to grow their leadership capacity through building relationships, developing skills, and challenging themselves to practice leadership. The association promotes opportunities for students to lead through various events and activities.
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.
- Masters
- Online
