If you are interested in learning more about the nonprofit sector through formal study, volunteer activities, or both, there are many options at The University of Iowa and through the LAWINRC.

Paul Thelen, LAWINRC Director, and Dave Bright, LAWINRC Associate Director, teach nonprofit courses in the College of Law.

Individual courses focus on various aspects of the nonprofit sector. The UI offers the Nonprofit Leadership and Philanthropy certificate. Courses leading to the certificate are open to undergraduates both on and off campus. 

The Master of Public Affairs (MPAFF) program trains future Public Affairs leaders to analyze, develop, manage, and implement public policies within government agencies at the city, state, regional, national, international, and nonprofit organizational level. The profession promotes public institutions that are economically resilient, innovative and entrepreneurial, just and equitable, and efficient and well-managed. This interdisciplinary program offers two areas of concentration, one of which is Public and Nonprofit Management. 

For more information on the above programs and courses, see our Academic Opportunities for Students page and links to the individual programs. 

Winston Churchill said, “We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give.” Working directly with nonprofit organizations by volunteering is a great way to gain practical experience while contributing to the community. 

The organizations highlighted on our Volunteer Opportunities for Students page represent only some of the possibilities available in the community. The benefits of volunteering are widely recognized. Those who volunteer are less likely to experience depression, feel less isolated, and gain positive feelings about the contributions they are making. As college students aiming for a nonprofit career path, volunteering allows you to meet new people, gain empathy for those in need, develop a fuller understanding of your community, and make connections with nonprofit workers and experienced volunteers. If working in the nonprofit sector is your career goal, volunteering is a big step toward reaching it.

Each summer, the LAWINRC brings on a team of students for 13 weeks as part of its Summer Research Associate (SRA) program. Under the supervision of senior staff, students help with research and compile information, assist in planning presentations and conferences, help rewrite publications, and answer basic questions from callers. The LAWINRC assists nonprofits working in many areas such as museums, social services, and arts and cultural institutions, offering students the chance to focus on areas of particular interest to them. Students in the SRA program have included upper-level undergraduates, graduate, and PhD students, all from a wide range of academic areas. They have moved into advanced degree programs, entered legal careers, joined agencies dealing with international issues, and become program directors. Some have received Fulbright Scholarships. The SRA application period opens each spring. Watch our website for announcement of the 2025 application period.