Social Impact Management

The Master of Science in Social Impact Management at Walden University is a comprehensive program designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to address complex social issues and create sustainable positive change within communities and organizations. This innovative degree blends theoretical frameworks with practical application, preparing graduates to lead initiatives that promote social equity, environmental sustainability, and community well-being. Throughout the program, students explore topics such as social entrepreneurship, nonprofit management, policy development, and strategic planning, gaining a deep understanding of how to develop, implement, and evaluate impactful programs and projects. The curriculum emphasizes ethical leadership, cultural competence, and data-driven decision making, ensuring that graduates are capable of managing diverse teams and leveraging resources effectively. With a strong focus on real-world challenges, the program encourages experiential learning through case studies, projects, and internships that bridge academic concepts with practical application. Students will also develop essential skills in communication, stakeholder engagement, and collaborative problem-solving, enabling them to build strategic partnerships and advocate for meaningful change. Walden University’s flexible online format allows working professionals to pursue their degrees without disrupting their careers, offering a convenient learning environment that accommodates personal and professional commitments. Faculty members are experienced practitioners and scholars dedicated to mentoring students and fostering a supportive academic community. Graduates of the program are prepared to lead social impact initiatives across a variety of sectors, including nonprofit organizations, government agencies, social enterprises, and corporate social responsibility departments. They will be equipped to influence policy, design impactful programs, and foster sustainable development efforts that align with social justice principles. This program is ideal for motivated individuals committed to making a difference, seeking to deepen their understanding of social systems and develop innovative solutions to pressing societal problems. By earning a Master of Science in Social Impact Management at Walden University, students gain the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to become effective changemakers dedicated to creating a more equitable and sustainable world.

The Master of Science in Social Impact Management at Walden University is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to lead and manage initiatives that create positive change within communities, organizations, and societies. This comprehensive program focuses on the development of strategic leadership, innovative solutions, and evidence-based practices to address complex social issues such as inequality, environmental sustainability, public health, and social justice. Throughout the program, students explore core topics including social impact assessment, program evaluation, policy analysis, stakeholder engagement, and ethical decision-making. Emphasizing practical application, the curriculum integrates real-world case studies and project-based learning, enabling students to develop actionable strategies for social good. The program also offers specializations that allow students to focus their expertise on areas such as nonprofit leadership, social entrepreneurship, or community development. Walden’s flexible online platform provides learners the opportunity to balance their studies with professional and personal commitments while connecting with diverse faculty and peer networks. Graduates of the Social Impact Management program are prepared to assume leadership roles in nonprofit organizations, government agencies, corporate social responsibility departments, and social enterprises. They possess the ability to evaluate social programs, craft effective policies, and drive sustainable change that benefits society at large. Whether seeking to advance their careers or to initiate impactful projects, students leave Walden equipped with a rigorous understanding of social impact strategies, innovative management techniques, and a commitment to making a difference in the world.

Program requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Social Impact Management at Walden University include a combination of coursework, comprehensive examinations, proposal development, original research, and dissertation completion. Prospective students are typically required to hold a master's degree from an accredited institution to be considered for admission. Upon entering the program, students must complete foundational coursework in social impact measurement, organizational leadership, qualitative and quantitative research methods, and ethical considerations in social research. These courses are designed to equip students with a deep understanding of social issues and effective management strategies for social initiatives.

In addition to coursework, students are required to pass comprehensive exams that assess their mastery of core concepts and readiness to develop their research proposals. Following successful completion of these exams, students must submit a detailed research proposal outlining their intended study, including research questions, methodology, and significance. Once approved, students embark on conducting their original research, which involves data collection, analysis, and interpretation aligned with academic and ethical standards.

Throughout the program, students are also expected to participate in seminars, workshops, and conferences to enhance their professional development and keep abreast of current trends in social impact management. As part of their graduation requirements, students must complete a dissertation that contributes new knowledge to the field and demonstrate their ability to conduct independent scholarly research. The dissertation process includes several stages: proposal approval, data collection, analysis, and defense. Successful completion of these milestones leads to the conferment of the PhD degree, signaling the student's expertise in managing and evaluating social impact initiatives in diverse settings.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The Walden University offers various financing options for students enrolled in the Social Impact Management program to facilitate access to higher education and support diverse financial needs. Students can explore federal financial aid programs, including grants and loans, by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Walden also provides institutional scholarships and fellowships aimed at students demonstrating financial need, academic excellence, or a commitment to social impact initiatives. In addition, payment plans are available to help manage tuition costs over time, offering flexibility for students who prefer to spread payments across calendar months.

Walden University often collaborates with external organizations and foundations to provide specialized scholarships that recognize students’ contributions to social change, community service, or leadership in impact management. Additionally, veterans and active military personnel may qualify for military-friendly financing options, including military scholarships and tuition discounts, in accordance with federal and state regulations. For international students, financial assistance options may be more limited, but some institutional and external scholarships can support their educational expenses.

Most students financing their studies in Social Impact Management may also consider private student loans, which require a credit check and often involve cosigners. Walden University offers resources and guidance to help students understand their financing options thoroughly, including financial advising services and online calculators to estimate loan repayment. Employment-based benefits or employer tuition reimbursement programs may also be viable sources of funding, depending on the student’s employment situation.

While specific program costs vary based on the number of credits taken, Walden University strives to maintain transparent and competitive tuition rates. The availability of financial support and the variety of funding options reflect Walden’s commitment to making education accessible to students from diverse backgrounds. Nevertheless, prospective students are advised to consult Walden’s official financial aid webpage and contact university financial services for detailed and personalized information about financing their studies in Social Impact Management.

The Social Impact Management program at Walden University is designed to prepare students for leadership roles in creating sustainable social change and managing initiatives that address complex social issues. This program emphasizes the development of strategic management skills, policy analysis, and ethical decision-making tailored to organizations focused on social impact. Students learn to evaluate social programs, assess community needs, and develop innovative solutions that promote equity and inclusion. The curriculum integrates theoretical frameworks with practical applications, enabling graduates to lead social enterprises, nonprofits, government agencies, and corporations committed to social responsibility. Coursework covers topics such as social entrepreneurship, organizational leadership, program evaluation, and nonprofit management, ensuring students acquire a comprehensive understanding of how to foster positive social change through effective management practices.

The program often includes flexible online courses that are accessible for working professionals, allowing students to balance their education with personal and professional commitments. Walden University’s emphasis on experiential learning means that students may engage in case studies, internships, or projects that provide real-world experience in measuring and enhancing social impact. Faculty members are typically experts in social sciences, public policy, or related fields, offering mentorship and industry insights to support student success. Graduates of this program are equipped to pursue roles such as social impact director, nonprofit manager, policy analyst, or corporate social responsibility officer.

With the growing importance of sustainability and social responsibility in the corporate sector and public institutions, a degree in Social Impact Management provides vital skills aligned with current global trends toward ethical leadership and social innovation. The program’s focus on research, analysis, and strategic planning positions students to influence policy, design impactful programs, and contribute to community development. Walden University’s commitment to social change and its extensive network of alumni and industry partners offer students valuable opportunities for professional growth and collaboration in the social impact sector.