# Monitoring Grants Course

Canonical URL: <https://www.graduateschool.edu/courses/monitoring-grants>

## Overview

This focused course clarifies what effective grant monitoring looks like, how to scale oversight by risk, and how to complete closeout correctly. Participants learn the language of monitoring, the linkage between risk and internal control, and how to select and execute the right mix of oversight techniques.

By the end, participants will be able to explain legislative requirements for monitoring and internal controls; define key terms related to monitoring and risk assessment; describe programmatic and fiscal monitoring techniques; outline site-visit benefits and steps; develop recommendations for closeout; and summarize pass-through monitoring responsibilities and closeout requirements.

## What you'll learn

- Explain legislative requirements that govern monitoring and internal controls.
- Define key terms related to monitoring, risk assessment, and internal control.
- Describe both programmatic and fiscal monitoring techniques.
- Outline the benefits and essential steps of conducting site visits.
- Develop recommendations and procedures for effective grant closeout.
- Summarize responsibilities for pass-through monitoring and closeout compliance.

## Prerequisites

Students should have prior experience in grants management or program oversight, including familiarity with risk assessment concepts, internal control principles, and basic programmatic or fiscal monitoring practices.

## Curriculum

#### Module 1: Legislative Requirements for Monitoring, Risk Management, and Internal Controls

- Interpret statutory/administrative expectations for monitoring.
- Tie risk management to internal control frameworks and oversight.
- Translate requirements into actionable monitoring plans.

#### Module 2: Monitoring and Risk—Key Terms and Concepts

- Define risk criteria and monitoring terminology in the grants context.
- Use risk ratings to tailor oversight activities.
- Document rationales for monitoring intensity and scope.

#### Module 3: Best Practices in Programmatic Monitoring Techniques

- Assess progress vs. performance measures and budget alignment.
- Record findings and corrective action timelines.
- Understanding performance metrics and measurements.

#### Module 4: Best Practices in Fiscal Monitoring Techniques

- Plan and conduct desk reviews, data checks, and evidence requests.
- Record findings and corrective action timelines.
- Best practices in internal auditing.

#### Module 5: Benefits and Mechanics of Site Visits

- Prepare agendas, sampling approaches, and interview guides.
- Verify internal controls and source documentation on-site.
- Communicate results and required follow-up.

#### Module 6: Closeout Roles, Steps, and Best Practices

- Compile final technical and financial reports and property records.
- Resolve open items and confirm audit/reporting completion.
- Establish retention timelines and transition obligations.

## Schedule
- Jun 3, 2026 9:00am–4:30pm — Live Online
- Aug 26, 2026 9:00am–4:30pm — Live Online
- Dec 14, 2026 9:00am–4:30pm — Live Online

## Instructors

### Seitu Stephens, J.D. — Instructor

Seitu I. Stephens, J.D., is a nationally recognized trainer and consultant in federal grants management, compliance, and program oversight. With more than two decades of experience working with federal, state, territorial, and nonprofit organizations, he specializes in helping agencies and grant recipients design, manage, and monitor federally funded programs in accordance with the Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (2 CFR 200).

Mr. Stephens has trained hundreds of grant professionals across government agencies, community-based organizations, and institutions of higher education. His instruction focuses on practical strategies for managing federal awards, structuring and monitoring subawards, ensuring financial accountability, preparing for audits, and strengthening internal controls to protect federal funds and program outcomes.

He has developed and delivered numerous professional development courses on topics including grant program design, risk assessment, subrecipient monitoring, procurement under federal awards, and audit preparation. His courses combine regulatory expertise with real-world case studies that help participants translate complex federal requirements into effective operational practices.

In addition to his training work, Mr. Stephens advises organizations on strengthening grant management systems, improving compliance frameworks, and building sustainable partnerships between government agencies and community-based organizations.

Mr. Stephens holds a Juris Doctor degree and is widely respected for his engaging instructional style and his ability to make complex federal grant regulations clear, practical, and actionable for practitioners.

## Pricing

**Tuition:** $649