Management in Non-Government Organisations

Unit code:ASA2033Study level:Undergraduate

Credit points

12
(Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)

Location

Footscray Park
Online Real Time

Prerequisites

(Or equivalent to be determined by unit coordinator)
Co-requisites
(Corequisite units must be studied concurrently with this unit)

Overview

This unit provides an in-depth introduction to non-government organisations (NGOs), focusing on how they are developed, operate, the challenges they face, and their role in addressing complex social issues. Students will examine NGO structures, governance, funding models, and the broader socio-political environments in which they function. Through experiential learning approaches, students will explore how NGOs identify and respond to unmet community needs—whether through programs, services, advocacy, or collaborative initiatives. The unit also includes the design of an NGO and the development of a comprehensive strategy to address a specific community issue, equipping students with both the theoretical grounding and practical tools to contribute effectively to social change.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

  1. Critically explain the significance of non-government organisation in advancing social change agendas and how and why non-governmental organisations have emerged as such significant types of organisations in society;
  2. Collectively respond to different scenarios illustrating how non-governmental organisations have responded to complex social challenges with varying degrees of success;
  3. Demonstrate comprehensive understanding of key theories in organisational development, applying theoretical insights to practical scenarios in organisational development and management;
  4. Working effectively in a group, utilise a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical skill to effectively mobilise and manage resources, enabling meaningful social impact responses in communities.

Assessment

For Melbourne campuses

Assessment type: Exercise | Grade: 20%

Analyse the strategy, structure, challenges, and constraints faced by NGOs operating in the contemporary world.

Assessment type: Case Study | Grade: 40%

In a group, develop practical responses, as a community organisation, to address complex and multifaceted issues experienced by a specific community.

Assessment type: Report | Grade: 40%

In a group , design an NGO and present a comprehensive strategy on how it would dynamically and sustainably respond to unmet community needs.

Required reading

Links to recommended readings and resources for this unit will be provided via VU Collaborate.

As part of a course

This unit is studied as part of the following course(s):

Bachelor of Community Development
ABCD | Bachelor degree | Duration: 3 years

Refer to the course page for information on how to apply for the course. VU takes care to ensure the accuracy of this unit information, but reserves the right to change or withdraw courses offered at any time. Please check that unit information is current with the Student Contact Centre.

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