Fundraising MS (FDGR1-GC)

After completing all coursework and upon approval of a proposal, each student is required to complete the capstone course, undertaking an original research paper on a subject relevant to his or her specialization in fundraising and philanthropy. This project will allow the student to synthesize the knowledge gained in previous coursework. While the student may address a subject previously explored by another scholar or practitioner, the thesis must offer original research and articulate original conclusions and thought processes that make a practical contribution to the existing body of knowledge in the field of Fundraising. All final papers must be of an academic and research standard that is consistent with the requirements of current journals and publications. In order to successfully complete the project, the student?s advisor, one other reader from either academe or industry, and the department must approve the thesis.

This course provides the opportunity for specialized and individualized activities that augment a student's program of study. A student interested in developing competencies in specialized areas of fundraising can elect to either expand on topics within the curriculum or focus on topics not offered in the current curriculum. Under the supervision of an academic advisor, a student will independently research a topic in-depth. The student is required to write a comprehensive paper about the researched topic.

An internship in a non-profit organization will provide learning experiences in the various aspects of fundraising or grantmaking. Approval of the director of the Heyman Center is required, as a limited number of internships are available to students.