Brandeis University

What you'll study

The programme combines theory, research methods and hands-on practice to prepare students to design and lead community-based campaigns and organisations. Core areas of study typically include theories of community organising and social movements, power analysis, strategic campaign planning, leadership and facilitation, community-based participatory research, policy analysis, and evaluation methods.

Students also develop practical skills in communications, media and digital organising, grant writing and fundraising, coalition building, negotiation and conflict resolution. Coursework is complemented by a substantial field placement or practicum placement in a community or advocacy organisation and a capstone or practicum project that applies classroom learning to a real organising challenge.

• Theory of community organising and social change
• Qualitative and quantitative research methods for community work
• Strategic campaign design and electoral/non-electoral advocacy
• Leadership, facilitation and organisational development
• Policy analysis and translating community needs into policy strategy
• Programme evaluation, monitoring and impact assessment
• Fundraising, development and sustainable organisational finance
• Communications, storytelling and digital mobilisation

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree or equivalent from an accredited institution. Admissions typically take into account academic record, relevant work or volunteer experience in community or advocacy settings, and demonstrated commitment to social change.

Required application materials usually include a résumé or CV, a personal statement outlining professional goals and organising experience, and letters of recommendation. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through accepted tests or institutional waivers where applicable. Some applicants may be invited to an interview as part of the selection process. Prospective students should consult the school for current specifics on tests and documentation.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue careers across the nonprofit, public and political sectors. Common roles include community organiser, campaign director, advocacy or policy manager, programme director for grassroots initiatives, coalition coordinator, community outreach director, and roles in labour organising and public affairs.

Alumni also work as policy analysts, grantmakers, evaluation specialists and consultants who support participatory planning, community development and civic engagement. The programme’s practicum focus and regional partnerships provide pathways into local and national organisations, think tanks, and foundations engaged in social justice, housing, health equity, immigration, environmental justice and related fields.

Why study at Brandeis University

Brandeis’s Heller School emphasises social justice, evidence-based policy and practical leadership, making it well suited to students seeking applied training in organising and advocacy. The school’s location near Boston offers access to a dense ecosystem of community organisations, advocacy groups, unions and public agencies, enabling rich practicum placements and networking.

Students benefit from faculty who combine academic expertise with practitioner experience, interdisciplinary resources across the university, and an active alumni network working in advocacy and social policy. The programme’s small cohort size and emphasis on experiential learning foster close mentorship, peer collaboration and opportunities to lead practicum projects that address real community needs.