Applied Courses
Applied Courses
Students studying in PPPM supplement traditional coursework with project-based applied courses that follow a service-learning model.
Graduate students in the MCRP Community Planning Workshop (CPW), the MPA Capstone, and the MNM Nonprofit Consultancy spend 4-6 months each year working with community- or agency-based clients to complete a research and engagement on topics of the clients’ choosing. Undergraduate students do the same through Real World Lane County, a 3-month course centered on helping local government and nonprofit clients with smaller projects.
These team-based, project-based courses give students hands-on experience with the work they’re likely to take on when they graduate.
Recent Projects
Oregon Heritage Upper Story Project
Mid-Willamette Valley Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy
2025 Applied Projects for Winter/Spring
Nonprofit Consultancy
The Nonprofit Consultancy course sequence is the two-term capstone experience for Master of Nonprofit Management students. Students work in teams with a nonprofit client to support the client’s organizational development needs. It’s a great opportunity for students to practice the skills and build their networks before graduation, and for nonprofit partners to receive professional-level support on pressing needs.
For Nonprofit Partners
Learn more about opportunities to participate in the 2025-2026 Nonprofit Consultancy!
Real World Lane County
PPPM 410: Real World Lane County is currently offered during Fall and Spring terms for undergraduates. Students work in small teams of 3-5 students to complete planning and policy projects for the Lane County government and nearby small cities. Students work with professionals to design, develop, and present projects that have a real impact in our local communities. Click on the recent project examples below!
Veneta Downtown Commercial Development Vision
ADU Cost Analysis for Lane County
CLEAR AIR Project – Air Quality Management Resources for Childcare Providers
Interested? Prepare to Register! Real World is for upper-division PPPM undergraduate students and other undergraduates interested in planning, public policy, and management. You need instructor approval to take the class. Email Aniko Drlik-Muehleck (aniko@uoregon.edu) with a paragraph explaining who you are and why you are interested in taking the class. How will this course help you meet your personal and professional goals? Include your major/minor and anticipated year of graduation.
Who To Contact
