The Bachelor in Science degree in Community & Organizational Development prepares students for a variety of careers spanning community and organizational development, nonprofit management, executive leadership, social justice activism, community organizing, social entrepreneurship, corporate social responsibility, higher education, government, philanthropy, social service agencies and more.

With the ability to tailor learning and career pathways, the program also offers excellent preparation for graduate school in areas such as law, medical and public health advocacy, public policy, human ecology and more.

Students tackle community, organizational, and societal challenges in collaboration with their peers and real-world partners, clients, and communities. Through project-based learning, applied research, and internship experiences, students learn how to make a positive human-centered impact on communities and society in meaningful and lasting ways.

In addition to the hundreds of community-based organizations in the Madison area, the Center for Nonprofit Studies (CommNS), housed in the School of Human Ecology, provides students with a hub for community-engaged teaching, research, and outreach focused on advancing the work of the civic and nonprofit sector. Students can participate in innovative nonprofit initiatives, network with community and organizational leaders, and attend annual conferences, workshops and speaker series.

Students in our program are consistently recognized for their extraordinary contributions, boasting several nationally acclaimed Truman Scholars and many Campus Notable Grads.