Organisation and Leadership for the Nonprofit-Sector

22M1103

Master

English

5.0

only winterterm

1 semester

The aim is to conduct an in-depth analysis of the specifics of organisational structures and leadership processes in organisations of the nonprofit-sector.

1. Organisational theories and models
2. Organisations as social systems
3. Characteristics of organisations in the third sector
4. Development and change of leadership theories and models in the NPO sector
5. Agility in the organisation

The total workload for the module is 150 hours (see also "ECTS credit points and grading").

• Homework / Assignment or
• Oral presentation, with written elaboration or
• Project Report, written

Written assignment – between 10 and 20 pages
Report: between 10 and 30 minutes with a written paper between 5 and 15 pages long 
Project report, written: between 10 and 30 pages

The requirements are specified in the relevant class.

none

Students have a broad and integrated knowledge of the basic assumptions of various organisational theories and models, which they know how to critically reflect upon, weigh against each other, and assess in terms of their relevance to the design of organizations in the nonprofit-sector.

They are familiar with problems and solution strategies for the planned change of organisations. Students have a profound understanding of the planning and course of leadership processes in third sector organisations, and develop a critical understanding regarding the possibility of leadership.

Students have an in-depth knowledge of the theoretical architectonics of various organisational theories and models, enabling them to assess their respective practical relevance for processes of organisational design and change in the nonprofit sector. Students’ detailed knowledge of leadership models enables them to engage discursively with leadership and motivation, and their underlying assumptions.

In this module, students apply all the theories and models in their own reflection. This is accomplished through group discussions, as well as debates and essays.

Students are able to use their profound knowledge of organisational theory and leadership to design organisations in the nonprofit-sector that are not only effective and efficient, but also social and stakeholder-friendly.

In this module, different trends and developments from the scientific and practical environment are presented and discussed in depth. Among other things, pro and con arguments on the various aspects are developed and interpreted in debates.

Students practice learning to put themselves in leadership situations and to resolve issues accordingly. They try out different leadership styles and contrast them with each other.

Students discuss the advantages and disadvantages of organisational forms, and reflect on the conditions required to implement these organisational forms in NPOs.

Graduates develop a professional self-image that enables them to decide on the organisational forms in which they want to work. They also learn the extent to which they are able to influence the processes and management structures in organisations. The module helps to ensure sustainable, responsible, and value-driven leadership in the future.

Reference is made to the current program schedule.

• Management in Nonprofit-Organisations M.A. (01.09.2024)

• Birnkraut, Gesa

• Birnkraut, Gesa