Grant Projects Management Associate of Arts

90 credits

The Grant Projects Management Associate of Arts is provided by the Office Professions Department.

Program Description

The Grant Projects Management Program is designed to prepare graduates to gain employment in tribal, non-profit, or public organizations that operate with grant funding. The first year of the program focuses on skills and knowledge needed to assist in a grant management office.  Students learn basic skills in grant management including federal funding cycles, appropriations, roles and responsibilities, cost principles, uniform administration and grant monitoring.  Grant writing fundamentals and computer applications, such as word processing, spreadsheets, presentations, and database are introduced to students.

In the second year of the program, Student gain an extensive knowledge of managing grants. Topics include sub awards, sub recipient monitoring, contract management, risk management and appropriation laws.  An overview of grant regulation and ethics are presented.  Students also complete practical experience in a local grant office. With an additional 34 credits, students would be able to complete the A.A. in Business Management and continue on to the B.A. in Business Administration at SKC.

Career Opportunities

Over $35 billion in grant and contract funding is distributed in the United States every year.  Many tribal, public, and non-profit entities operate with numerous grants and contracts. Students completing the Associate of Arts degree will have the knowledge and technical skills needed to perform accounting functions and analyze grant financial statements, administer grants in compliance with codes and regulations, and work in positions to manage grants in tribal, nongovernmental, or private settings.  The degree also offers sufficient basic accounting and training in Microsoft Office Suites to allow graduates to move into a variety of positions in office administration. 

According to the Montana Department of Labor and Industry, Business Operations Specialist (such as Grant Coordinator) Occupations current average salary in Montana is $66,290.

Student Learning Outcomes

In addition to the learning outcomes for the Certificate of Completion, upon completion of the Associate of Arts in Grant Projects Management, graduates will be able to:

• Follow uniform administration requirements necessary for grant management.
• Administer codes and regulations as they affect grant management.
• Analyze financial statements and accounting functions as they relate to grants.
• Identify risk management and appropriation laws. 
• Examine ethical considerations when managing grants.
• Demonstrate knowledge of laws and regulations related to management of contracts and grants. 
• Gain practical experience with grant management through a supervised practicum.