University of Utah

What you'll study

This master's combines theory, applied skills and field practice to prepare students for community-centred advocacy and organisational leadership. Core topics include community organising theory, social movement and civic engagement, policy analysis and public affairs, programme design and evaluation, participatory research methods, and leadership for social change.

Typical modules and learning activities:

• Community Organising and Mobilisation — strategies for building relationships, developing leadership in communities, and sustaining campaigns.
• Policy Analysis and Advocacy — tools for analysing policy options, framing advocacy messages, and engaging with legislative processes.
• Program Development and Evaluation — designing interventions, setting outcomes, and using qualitative and quantitative methods to assess impact.
• Grantwriting and Resource Development — practical skills for fundraising, proposal writing and managing restricted funds.
• Research Methods for Community Work — participatory and action-research approaches that centre community voices.
• Ethics, Equity and Cultural Competence — frameworks for ethically accountable practice in diverse communities.
• Practicum / Field Placement — supervised placement with a local nonprofit, advocacy organisation or government agency to apply classroom learning in real-world settings.
• Capstone Project — a culminating applied project or portfolio that addresses a community-identified need through organisational strategy, policy proposal or evaluated programme.

The programme emphasises applied learning, partnerships with local stakeholders, and opportunities to work across disciplines such as public health, social work and public policy.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree or equivalent. Selection is based on academic records and demonstrated commitment to community work or advocacy rather than on a single metric.

• Undergraduate degree from an accredited institution (in any discipline, though social science, public policy, health or related backgrounds are helpful).
• Relevant experience in community organising, advocacy, nonprofit work, public service or volunteer leadership is strongly favoured.
• Statement of purpose describing professional goals, community commitments and examples of relevant work or leadership.
• Letters of recommendation (typically two or three) from academic or professional referees who can assess suitability for graduate study and field practice.
• Current resume or curriculum vitae documenting education and experience.
• Some applicants may be invited to interview; consideration is given to personal motivation, interpersonal skills and fit with practicum requirements.

Standardised tests are not universally required; applicants should consult the programme for current testing policies and any additional documentation (such as transcripts in English or proof of English proficiency for international applicants).

Career prospects

Graduates work across the nonprofit, public and community sectors where skills in organising, advocacy and programme management are needed. Typical roles include:

• Community organiser or campaign coordinator
• Advocacy or public policy specialist in nonprofit organisations
• Program manager or director for community-based initiatives
• Coalition builder and stakeholder engagement lead
• Grantwriter and development officer
• Local government community outreach or civic engagement officer
• Researcher or evaluator focusing on community outcomes

Alumni often move into leadership roles within grassroots movements, statewide advocacy organisations, health equity initiatives, and municipal or regional planning offices. The programme’s practicum and applied capstone provide concrete experience that supports immediate employability and career advancement.

Why study at University of Utah

The University of Utah offers strong connections to a diverse set of community partners across Salt Lake City and the intermountain region, providing robust practicum and field placement opportunities. Students benefit from interdisciplinary collaboration with faculties in social work, public health, sociology and public policy, and from access to research centres focused on health equity, civic engagement and community development.

The campus’s proximity to civic institutions, tribal nations and a wide range of nonprofits allows students to engage in meaningful, place-based projects. Faculty bring applied experience in organising and policy as well as research expertise, and the programme is designed to balance practical skills with critical reflection on power, equity and ethics in advocacy work.