This study will incorporate the subjects of two distinct, yet related bodies of literature. One addresses community development and the other economic development. The study will highlight the importance of linking these two concepts in a model that integrates the development of social capital and community capacity and functioning with the economic development of that community. Students will examine theoretical concepts in these two domains as well as real-world economic development models that attempt to move beyond the traditional approaches and examine ways in which real communities have tried to produce positive economic outcomes through community development. This course was previously CAED-611003.

A critical step in strategic management involves scanning the economic environment which, in turn, requires an assessment of an organization’s relationships with various stakeholders. Effective decision makers understand the importance of balancing and protecting the interests of various stakeholders, including investors, employees, the community, and local and state governments, suppliers, funding sources, various interest groups and, of course, the client or customer. This course will examine the role that stakeholder analysis plays in all aspects of the management process including the use of resources, capabilities and operations to establish competitive advantage and sustainability. Topics will include the connections between organizations and the natural, social, and financial environments, illustrating how all three must be maintained in balance to sustain current and future generations. The course will also look at the role of leadership in creating value for each stakeholder through strategic alignment and ethical decision making.

The course considers the diverse purposes of workforce development policy, offers insights into the complexities of public policy in the U.S. federal system and underscores the important role of state and local governments in responding to the demands of a changing economy and workforce. This course will review the evolution of workforce development policy in the United States with particular attention to key federal legislation, the programs and services that create and deliver workforce programs, and the challenges and opportunities that continue to shape workforce development policy and programs. This course was previously POL-611005.

Students have the opportunity to develop individualized studies with their mentor/advisor in Community & Eco Development (CAED). Please contact your mentor/advisor for more details.

As the concluding study in this Master of Arts program, students will complete a culminating project, in which they engage in a sustained examination of a critical question or issue related to their program. The final project will usually take the form of a policy memorandum. This course is designed to guide students through the implementation of a policy memorandum. Policy Memorandums are not published in the ProQuest/UMI service. In some cases, students may choose to do a Practicum, a learning opportunity to develop skills and practical insights related to workplace development, analysis, and implementation. Prerequisites: PPOL 6021 (preferred) OR PPOL 6020 (for students intending to pursue doctoral studies).

Students have the opportunity to develop individualized studies with their mentor/advisor in Community & Eco Development (CAED). Please contact your mentor/advisor for more details.