Integrating client-based service learning with a nonprofit distance-learning grants administration and management course

• Published in: Journal of public affairs education : J-PAE. Vol. 31; no. 2; pp. 263 - 273
• Main Author: Mathews, Melissa A.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Washington National Association of Schools of Public Affairs and Administration 03.04.2025
• Subjects: Course Content; Grants; Learning; Management; Nonprofit organizations; Service Learning; Students; Teachers
• ISSN: 1523-6803; 2328-9643
• DOI: 10.1080/15236803.2024.2441622

The focus of this article is on a course design to integrate client-based service learning with a distance-learning grants administration and management course. This course was offered through an MPA program that utilizes synchronous online instruction for public and nonprofit sector professionals to earn degrees within a compressed timeline. Students enrolled in this course developed $3.76 million dollars of grant funding proposals for 25 small nonprofit organizations within the region. The goal of the design was to enhance student learning while supporting the local nonprofit sector through client-based projects. This pedagogical approach contributed to the civic priorities of my academic institution, the MPA program mission, and my own public service values. I describe the academic institutional context and course design followed by a reflection on my experience with comments from students and nonprofit course clients. I also offer suggestions to educators who are similarly interested in client-based service learning.