Certificate in Grant Writing and Program Evaluation

Certificate

Hours: 9 Online

About

The Certificate in Grant Writing and Program Evaluation at Fort Hays State University is a 9-credit program designed to equip students with the essential skills to secure funding for various organizations. This program is one of the nation's few undergraduate offerings in grant proposal writing and program evaluation. Students will learn to identify funding opportunities from government and private sources, develop comprehensive grant proposals, and conduct thorough program evaluations. The certificate is also available entirely for graduate credit, requiring additional coursework for graduate students.

Grants are crucial in providing supplemental funding to numerous sectors, such as education, healthcare, law enforcement, and social services. With this certificate, students will be prepared to meet the increasing demand for skilled grant writers in the nonprofit sector and beyond. Whether aiming for a career in grant writing or seeking to enhance their skill set for broader employment opportunities, this certificate provides a significant edge in the job market.

Why pursue a Certificate in Grant Writing and Program Evaluation at Fort Hays State University?

Fort Hays State University offers a distinctive Certificate in Grant Writing and Program Evaluation that stands out due to its comprehensive curriculum and practical approach. Unlike many other programs, this certificate is available at both the undergraduate and graduate levels, providing flexibility and accommodating students at different stages of their academic journey. The program's unique blend of theoretical instruction and practical application ensures that students understand the foundational concepts and gain hands-on experience directly applicable to their careers.

Moreover, the faculty at Fort Hays State University are dedicated to staying current with industry trends and advancements, integrating the latest developments into their teaching. This commitment to excellence ensures that students receive a relevant and forward-thinking education. By choosing this program, students benefit from the expertise of seasoned professionals, a robust support system, and the opportunity to build a skill set highly valued in the nonprofit and social service sectors.

Who is this program for?

The Certificate in Grant Writing and Program Evaluation is ideal for individuals seeking to enhance their professional skill set and make a meaningful impact through effective grant writing. This program is suited for aspiring grant writers, nonprofit professionals, social service workers, community leaders, and students looking to specialize in grant writing and program evaluation. Whether you are beginning your career or seeking to expand your expertise, this certificate provides valuable training and practical experience.

Aspiring grant writers
Nonprofit professionals
Social service workers
Community leaders
Students seeking specialized skills

Learning Outcomes

The Certificate in Grant Writing and Program Evaluation at Fort Hays State University equips students with a comprehensive skill set tailored to the needs of the nonprofit sector and other funding-dependent organizations. Through rigorous coursework and hands-on experiences, students will develop the expertise to craft successful grant proposals, conduct thorough program evaluations, and implement effective program designs. These outcomes ensure that graduates are proficient in technical skills and capable of significantly impacting their professional roles.

Proficiency in Grant Writing

Students will master all 12 standard components of grant proposals, ensuring they can create compelling and fundable documents.

Competence in Needs Assessment

Graduates will demonstrate the ability to conduct thorough needs assessments to identify funding priorities and justify grant proposals.

Program Design and Logic Modeling

Students will develop robust program designs and logic models that clearly outline project objectives, activities, and expected outcomes.

Evaluation Data Collection and Analysis

Graduates will be skilled in collecting and analyzing data to evaluate program effectiveness and make informed decisions.

Real-World Applications

The Certificate in Grant Writing and Program Evaluation at Fort Hays State University is designed to equip students with practical skills immediately applicable in the real world. Throughout the program, students engage in hands-on projects, such as conducting needs assessments and writing grant proposals for actual organizations. This practical experience enhances learning and prepares students to tackle the challenges they will face in their professional careers effectively.

Additionally, the program emphasizes the importance of real-world applications by incorporating internship opportunities that allow students to work directly with nonprofits, schools, and other organizations. These internships provide invaluable experience and often lead to job opportunities post-graduation. By completing the certificate, students have a portfolio of work and practical knowledge that sets them apart in the job market.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

At Fort Hays State University, the Certificate in Grant Writing and Program Evaluation is continually updated to reflect the latest trends and advancements in the field. The curriculum incorporates cutting-edge practices and emerging technologies in grant writing and program evaluation, ensuring students are well-prepared to meet current industry standards. Faculty members bring their extensive experience and ongoing professional development into the classroom, providing students with insights into the latest tools and strategies.

Staying ahead of the curve is crucial in the competitive field of grant writing, where funders constantly look for innovative and well-justified proposals. Students will be able to create compelling grant proposals by learning the most up-to-date methods and technologies. This forward-thinking approach ensures program graduates are prepared for today’s job market and equipped to adapt to future changes and advancements.

Hands-on Activities

Hands-on learning is a cornerstone of the Certificate in Grant Writing and Program Evaluation at Fort Hays State University. The program includes a variety of experiential learning opportunities, such as interactive workshops, real-world case studies, and collaborative projects. Students participate in mock grant proposal reviews, allowing them to critically assess their peers' work and receive constructive feedback on their proposals. These activities help students build confidence and proficiency in their grant writing skills.

One of the most impactful hands-on components of the program is the internship course, where students work directly with an organization to conduct a needs assessment and develop a grant proposal. This real-world experience is invaluable, allowing students to apply what they have learned in the classroom to actual situations. Many students see their proposals funded, significantly boosting their professional resumes and giving them a sense of accomplishment. This practical experience ensures that graduates are knowledgeable, experienced, and ready to make a meaningful impact in their careers.

What You’ll Learn:

Master grant proposal components
Conduct needs assessments
Design effective programs
Create logic models
Analyze evaluation data

How You’ll Learn:

Interactive online courses
Hands-on internship experience
Real-world grant writing practice
Faculty mentorship
Collaborative projects

Courses

The Certificate in Grant Writing and Program Evaluation at Fort Hays State University consists of three core courses that provide a robust foundation in the essential skills needed for successful grant writing and program evaluation. These courses are designed to offer both theoretical knowledge and practical application, ensuring that students are well-prepared to meet the demands of the field.

SOC 470: Grant Writing

This course teaches students to craft compelling grant proposals and enhance each part for maximum impact. It covers grant writing as a valuable skill for career advancement or volunteer work with community organizations, schools, and local services.

SOC 671: Program Development and Evaluation

This course offers an in-depth exploration of topics from SOC 470, Grant Writing, including conducting needs assessments for local data, developing a social program using a 15-step process, and formally evaluating the program.

SOC 677: Internship in Sociology

This course offers practical experience in community organizations and social agencies for students in good academic standing, requiring systematic recording, reporting of work, and supplementary reading.

Discover the full Certificate in Grant Writing and Program Evaluation course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.

Career Prospects

Graduates of the Certificate in Grant Writing and Program Evaluation at Fort Hays State University are well-positioned to pursue various rewarding career paths. The specialized skills acquired through this program open doors to roles such as full-time grant writers, program coordinators, fundraising consultants, nonprofit managers, and freelance grant writers. Each career offers the opportunity to make a significant difference in the community and support organizations needing funding.

Full-time Grant Writer

Professionals dedicated to securing funding for nonprofit organizations, schools, and other entities.

Program Coordinator

Individuals are responsible for overseeing program implementation and evaluation within organizations.

Fundraising Consultant

Experts who assist organizations in developing and executing fundraising strategies.

Nonprofit Manager

Leaders who manage nonprofit organizations ensure they meet their funding and operational goals.

Freelance Grant Writer

Independent professionals who offer grant writing services to multiple clients, providing flexibility and diverse opportunities.

The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere

Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $2,315.97* (online) per semester.

*Estimated cost based on 9 credit hours at the FHSU Online Undergrad tuition rate ($257.33/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.

Ready for the next step?

Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.

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Related Programs

Fort Hays State University offers several related programs that complement the Certificate in Grant Writing and Program Evaluation, providing additional specialization and career advancement opportunities. These programs cater to various interests within community service and nonprofit management, allowing students to tailor their education to their specific career goals and interests.

FAQ

Is there a formula for successful grant proposal writing that also allows creativity?

Yes! While every successful grant proposal has standard components, there is room for creativity in presenting your ideas and justifying your funding needs.

Can this certificate be completed online?

Yes, the Certificate in Grant Writing and Program Evaluation can be completed online, providing flexibility for students with varying schedules.

What kind of organizations hire grant writers?

Various organizations, including nonprofits, schools, hospitals, law enforcement agencies, and social service organizations, hire grant writers.

Will I have the opportunity to write accurate grant proposals during the program?

Absolutely. The internship course requires students to write grant proposals for actual organizations, some of which may be submitted to actual funders.

How does the Certificate in Grant Writing and Program Evaluation enhance my employment prospects?

Employers highly value specialized training in grant writing, particularly in the nonprofit sector. The skills gained through this program can lead to full-time employment, consulting opportunities, or volunteer roles that significantly impact communities.

Information about the School of Criminal Justice, Leadership, and Sociology

FHSU’s School of Criminal Justice, Leadership, and Sociology brings together a diverse range of programs dedicated to preparing students for impactful careers in law enforcement, leadership, and social sciences. Our integrated approach allows students to develop critical skills across these disciplines, fostering an environment where future leaders and professionals are equipped to address complex societal challenges. The Criminal Justice programs offer flexible online and on-campus options, focusing on law enforcement, corrections, and legal systems with a strong emphasis on leadership and integrity. The Leadership programs develop essential organizational skills through interactive coursework and internships, supported by the Leadership Studies Association and VALUE program. Sociology programs delve into social life, behavior, and community issues, emphasizing research and critical thinking. Together, these programs foster cross-disciplinary learning, empowering students to lead and innovate within their communities and beyond.

Together, these programs create a robust educational experience that encourages cross-disciplinary learning and collaboration. Students are empowered to lead, innovate, and contribute meaningfully to their communities and the broader society. Whether you are passionate about justice, leadership, or sociology, FHSU’s School of Criminal Justice, Leadership, and Sociology provides the knowledge and skills necessary to make a lasting impact.

Student Organizations

Additional Information

Criminal Justice Centers

National De-escalation Training Center:

Fort Hays State University’s Criminal Justice Program and University Police joined the National De-escalation Training Center (NDTC) in August 2020 as Region 2 Central Region Training Center. As a regional center, FHSU facilitates the only Level 3 de-escalation training available in the United States.

Level 1 training includes traditional techniques of procedural justice.
Level 2 provides basic crisis intervention.
Level 3 augments traditional de-escalation and crisis intervention with rapid personality identification.

The NDTC De-escalation: Principles & Practice course is evidence-based and has increased officer confidence in utilizing de-escalation skills in working with the public.

FHSU facilitates NDTC’s three training modalities, including an 8-hour online training, two-day face-to-face training, and a 40-hour train-the-trainer program. Due to FHSU’s $2.75 million federal grant funding, the face-to-face trainings can be provided at no cost to agencies. Scholarships may be available for agencies to train officers in the online course.

NDTC training is approved by the U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Community-Oriented Policing Services (COPS) and certified by the International Association of Directors of Law Enforcement Standards and Training (IADLEST).

Center for Empowering Victims of Gender-based Violence:

The Center for Empowering Victims of Gender-based Violence is a regional hub of collaborative research and service, housed in the Criminal Justice Programs at Fort Hays State University. The Center for Empowering Victims of Gender-based Violence aims to reduce the constraints facing survivors, to promote the freedom of economic independence, and to empower survivors to seize opportunity freely. The center commits to providing sustainable support and improvement to help survivors break the cycle of violence and transform themselves from victims/survivors to social entrepreneurs. The Center facilitates cross-disciplinary research focusing on the causes and control of gender-based violence in rural areas. It leads and facilitates collaborative networks for researchers to apply evidence-based approaches and to investigate best practices addressing gender-based violence in rural communities. The Center establishes and develops academic-community collaborations through service-learning, research, assessment, and educational opportunities and policy recommendations that enhance the well-being of rural communities.

VALUE Program:

The Voss Advanced Leadership Undergraduate Experience (VALUE) is designed to develop the most promising undergraduates into powerful agents of change. This year-long program offers curricular and co-curricular experiences with three tracks: corporate leadership, civic/non-profit leadership, and scholarship/leadership research.

CNN Heroes Advisory Board:

The Sociology Programs emphasize real-world impact through training in projects designed to help those in need. A notable project involves collaboration with CNN Heroes, individuals recognized for their exceptional work in nonprofit organizations. The CNN Heroes Advisory Board, composed of these national heroes, provides insights and advice to students based on their successful experiences in the nonprofit sector.

Grant Writing and Program Evaluation

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