DEGREE OVERVIEW: NONPROFIT MANAGEMENT May 2009
Introduction | Why this degree? | What to expect | Who gets this degree and for what? | Admissions advice

Introduction

Nonprofit organizations—broadly described—operate to achieve missions that serve the common good. Graduate study in the field of nonprofit management focuses on the development of leadership skills for nonprofit managers and provides education in areas such as general operations, human resources, strategies, and fund development.

Students of nonprofit management also develop proficiency in other matters such as nonprofit legal issues, organizational development, donor relations, financial management and fundraising, volunteer and human resource management, and program evaluation, to name a few competencies. Many nonprofit management programs have a theoretical component, and most programs also rely on experiential learning as a vital element of a graduate student’s education.

Why a graduate degree in nonprofit management?

• What’s in a name?
• Skills I can gain
• What about a certificate in nonprofit management?

What can I expect to find in a nonprofit management program?

• General structure of programs
• Accreditation
• Usual course work and concentrations
• Students and faculty

Who gets this degree and what do they go on to do?

• Prior experience
• Career paths

What should I know about admissions?

• Applying
• Financial aid

• Conclusion and further resources

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