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Online Non-Profit Management Degree, non-profit management, online master degree, online masters degree, online college, online coursesA Master’s degree in Non-Profit Management will give you the skills to succeed in a highly rewardilewng field that offers well-paid and stable career options. Your degree program will prepare you by building skills such as leadership, communication, data analysis, and grant writing.

Once you have built these skills, your degree program will make you put them to practical use through a professional internship or practicum experience. After graduating, you will be ready for a management job at a wide range of non-profit organizations that provide help and services for the public good.


Many prospective candidates for Masters in Non-Profit Management are currently employed or have experience at a non-profit organization. A master’s degree is a great way to increase your credentials and earn a new job or promotion in the field.

online college, online degree, online masters, online master's degree program, non-profit management degree, nonprofit managementIf you are worried about maintaining your current professional responsibilities while working towards a master’s degree, then an online program might be a good choice for you. Online degree programs are designed to accommodate students with full-time schedules by allowing students to complete classwork and exams whenever and wherever it is most convenient.

Masters programs in non-profit management generally require the completion of 30 to 60 academic credits, a professional practicum, and a dissertation. Examples of courses that you might take during your degree program include:

  • Nonprofit Finance: Courses in non-profit finance will give you the understanding of grant writing and other ways that non-profits acquire the capital to execute their organization’s initiatives.
  • Governance and Leadership: Courses in governance and leadership will give you knowledge of how federal and state funding and governments operate and cooperate with non-profit organizations.
  • Non-Profit Management Degree, online degree program, online non-profit management degree, online master's degree, online masters, online courses, online program, study onlineMarketing for Non-profits: Marketing for non-profit will give you the ability to design and execute an advertising strategy to increase the public awareness of your non-profit company.
  • Trends in the Non-profit Sector: You will also take courses in trends in the non-profit sector which will give you an understanding of the current state of non-profit organizations.

The knowledge that you will gain in your courses will give you lifelong skills that will help you in the field of non-profit management as well as other professional fields. Before researching schools you should take stock of your own professional and academic priorities as different degree programs have different strengths and benefits. There is a wide range of metrics available for colleges and universities, but the methodology for our ranking is based on:

  • Price (25%): Degree programs can range widely in price, so we made sure to include schools that provide good value to their students.
  • Research Rank (25%): Schools have different facilities and endowments that allow them to offer specific academic experiences.
  • Admissions Score (25%): Admissions score are based on admissions rate, freshman retention rate, graduation rate, and other statistics that attest to student satisfaction.
  • Flexibility (25%): Online schools offer different levels of schedule and location flexibility, so we prioritized schools that maximized the flexibility of the online format.

The prices below for each school in our ranking are the most recent tuition & fees from the National Center for Education Statistics website. When a choice was presented, in-state and graduate options were chosen.

If any of the schools on our list might be a good match for you, you should be sure to follow the link to their website and request more information about their specific programs.

Online Masters Degree Program in Non-Profit Management, online school, online college, online courses, nonprofit management, nonprofit manager, Non-Profit Manager

The Best Online Masters in Non-Profit Management

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  1. MERIT: 192.7
    View Profile Average Cost: $17,600

    Online Master of Arts in Nonprofit Administration

    lindenwood university, online college degree, online college classes, hybrid programsLindenwood is a private, liberal arts university in Saint Charles, Missouri. It was founded in 1827. There currently serve over 10,000 students with a 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio.

    Students can choose from 121 majors at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels through Lindenwood’s ten colleges and schools. Since 1990 it has been the second fastest growing school in the Midwest. U.S. News & World Report ranks it in the 230-301 bracket of National Universities.

    Lindenwood offers an Online Master of Arts in Nonprofit Administration designed to prepare you for diverse careers improving the lives of others. It features courses in non-profit governance and law, budgeting and financial management, grant writing, human resource management, and fundraising, among others.

    Lindenwold’s faculty have significant real-world experience and are eager to guide students through their education with one-on-one attention. The program also features access to many engaging, enriching internship opportunities.

    For those who haven’t completed their Bachelor’s, Lindenwood offers a 5 year BA/MA degree in non-profit management as well.

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  2. MERIT: 192
    View Profile Average Cost: $32,450

    Online Master’s in Organizational Leadership with a concentration in Nonprofit Management

    9 Lewis-logoLewis is a Roman Catholic university. It’s based in Illinois and was established in 1932. Lewis serves over 6,600 students through more than 80 undergraduate majors and 22 graduate programs, as well as accelerated programs for adults. It offers degrees through colleges and schools of Arts and Sciences, Business, Education, Nursing and Health Professions, and Professional and Continuing Education.

    Lewis began as an aviation technology school for men only but grew into a co-ed school of science and technology. Over 6,500 students attend Lewis, which has a 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio. In 2019 USNR ranks Lewis 20th in Regional Universities Midwest and 36th in Best Value Schools.

    Lewis offers an Online Master’s in Organizational Leadership with a concentration in Nonprofit Management. The program was designed to help students understand the distinct challenges and goals of nonprofits, and position themselves to lead nonprofits to sustainability and success.

    The concentration is focused on working with people, giving graduates the tools, skills, and strategies necessary to work at charities, boards, and associations. Topics covered include building a board of directors, fundraising, strategic planning, writing proposals and grants, and much more.

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  3. MERIT: 191.8
    View Profile Average Cost: $29,860

    Online Master of Nonprofit Administration

    north park, online degree programs, online courses, online education, distance educationNorth Park is a private Christian university in Chicago, Illinois. It was founded in 1891. Over 2,900 students attend North Park, which has a 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio. U.S. News has ranked it 65th in Regional Universities Midwest.

    Students from over 40 states and 30 countries attend the North Park, which offers 40 undergraduate majors and 26 minors, along with several special and pre-professional programs. It aims to teach students about justice, truth, significance, and so much more.

    North Park offers an Online Master of Nonprofit Administration. It’s especially focused on strategic management. Students will be prepared to work at mission-driven organizations in areas like fundraising, financial decision-making, governance, and more. Graduates will be prepared to work as executives at a variety of organizations.

    There are graduate-level certificates that can be added to this program that allows students to add a certification in areas like nonprofit finance, marketing, church administration and more that can be added to this program without adding time or additional cost to students.

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  4. MERIT: 191.75
    View Profile Average Cost: $36,810

    Online Master of Nonprofit Management

    Regis UniversityRegis University is a private Jesuit university in Denver, Colorado. It was founded in 1877. U.S. News & World Report ranks it tied for 26th among Regional Universities West. Over 8,300 students attend Regis, which has a 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio.

    Regis is divided into five different colleges: Regis College; The Rueckert-Hartman College for Health Professions; the College of Contemporary Liberal Studies; the College of Computer and Information Sciences; and the College of Business and Economics.

    Students can access 30 different online bachelor degrees, including Accounting, Computer Science, and Nursing. The university also offers 42 different online graduate degrees including a Masters of Information Assurance, a Masters of Business Administration, among other options.

    Regis offers an Online Master of Nonprofit Management designed for nonprofit professionals looking to enter leadership positions in the field. Graduates will be prepared to enter these roles in aspects of nonprofit work that include community outreach, fundraising, communications and public relations, and much more.

    This program features coursework in financial management, human resource leadership, program development accountability, organizational leadership, and much more. Students will use discussions and build towards a capstone project to supplement their experience and education in this program.

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  5. MERIT: 191.5
    View Profile Average Cost: $34,910

    Accelerated Online Master of Public Administration

    Marywood University, Online College, Online Degree, remote coursework, digital classroomMarywood is a private Catholic liberal arts university in Scranton, Pennsylvania. The school vows to serve students and help them achieve longterm success in whatever field they pursue no matter their background or beliefs. It was founded in 1915.

    The school offers 60 bachelor’s degree, 36 master’s degree, two doctoral degrees, and two terminal degrees (MFA, Ed.S.). Currently, over 2,900 students attend Marywood, which offers a 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio. USNR ranks it 43rd in the Regional Universities North category. Its motto is “Holiness, Knowledge, Health.”

    Marywood offers an Accelerated Online Master of Public Administration that requires 30 credit hours and follows the National Association of Schools of Public Affairs and Administration (NASPAA)’s accreditation guidelines. It will impart graduates looking to work as administrators with practical experience and the skills required to excel in the field.

    Students will learn to research and gain an advanced theoretical understanding of the complexities involved in public administration. No standardized test is required to enter this program, and students can attend on a full or part-time basis. This program can also become a dual MPA/MSW program for those interested in earning both degrees.

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  6. MERIT: 191.25
    View Profile Average Cost: $24,768

    Online MS in Nonprofit Management

    online degree, online college, online college class, hybrid program, no residencyGrace College is a private evangelical Christian college in Winona Lake, Indiana. It was founded in 1948. Over 2,100 students attend the school, which has a 19:1 student-to-faculty ratio.

    Grace has five schools, including Arts and Sciences, Behavioral Sciences, Business, Ministry Studies, and Professional & Online Education. It believes strongly in Biblical values. USNR ranks it 70th in the Regional Universities Midwest category for 2019 and 53rd in Best Value Schools.

    Grace offers a 100% Online MS in Nonprofit Management that will help students figure out how they can do a better job serving other people. You’ll learn how to find and train staff, improve organizational efficiency, use the latest technologies for optimum results, fundraise, and much more.

    Sample courses include Marketing, Communication and Special Topics for Nonprofit Organizations, Obtaining and Managing Resources for Nonprofit Organizations, Fundraising Fundamentals, Grant Writing, and much more.

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  7. MERIT: 191
    View Profile Average Cost: $36,900

    Online Master of Arts in Nonprofit Management

    Historically, the Notre Dame of Maryland University was primarily an in-person women’s-only college. Today this private university still offers women’s-only classes from their main campus in Baltimore, Maryland. Additionally, online bachelor’s-completion and graduate programs are offered on campus and online to both men and women. This small school is known for their quality of instruction and one-on-one attention.

    Notre Dame of Maryland offers an Online Master of Arts in Nonprofit Management that focuses on social commitment, management theory, business methods and more to help students become leaders at nonprofits. In the program, you’ll explore policy and social challenges, funding, and new technology.

    The curriculum looks at building a strategic direction, finding funding, managing volunteers and staff, and assessing finances and programs. It also has many elective options. Learning outcomes include an understanding of talent development and social media management in the modern nonprofit world. There’s also a post-baccalaureate certificate version of the program.

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  8. MERIT: 189.9
    View Profile Average Cost: $32,220

    Online Master of Business Administration

    concordia university nebraska, online college degree, digital education, online learning, online education, online masters degreeConcordia University (CU) is a privately-funded university system with campuses throughout the United States and online. For our ranking, we’re placing Concordia University-Nebraska. This branch of the CU system is a small university (around 2,500 students) known for high quality student-to-faculty ratios as well as one-on-one attention for students. A wide range of online degrees are available through CU-Nebraska.

    Concordia Nebraska offers an Online Master of Business Administration aimed at creating ethical business leaders. You’ll build significant leadership skills, business disciplines, communication abilities, and much more.

    There are also available graduate certificates in Human Resources Management, Leadership & Managing Teams through Change, and Project Management. This program can also be taken on campus, or in a hybrid of online and in-person tutelage.

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  9. MERIT: 189.7
    View Profile Average Cost: $34,225

    bay path university, online degree programs, bay path college, online college, online universityBay Path is a private university in Longmeadow, Massachusetts. It was founded in 1897. Bay Path offers women-only Bachelor’s degree programs (on-campus and online), co-educational master’s degree programs (on-campus and online) and Occupational Therapy Doctorate program for men and women online.

    Nearly 3,300 students attend Bay Path, which offers a 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio. It’s a member of the Cooperating Colleges of Greater Springfield, an eight-college consortium. Most of its programs have a focus on professional and/or arts and science degrees. Many are designed to empower women’s education and the promotion of women in the workplace.

    Bay Path offers an Accelerated Online MS in Nonprofit Management & Philanthropy that was created to offer relevancy, diversity and practical skills to graduates. Students will be prepared to manage in areas like Strategic Planning, Financial Analysis, Board Governance, and Volunteer Management.

    This program can also be taken in a format that blends online education and in-person courses. Learning outcomes include a detailed understanding of the current nonprofit landscape, as well as significant nonprofit leadership skills.

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  10. Our Lady of the Lake University
    MERIT: 189.5
    Average Cost: $28,740

    Online Master of Science in Nonprofit Management

    online degree programs, online college, online masters degreeOur Lady of the Lake University is an independent Catholic co-ed university in San Antonio, Texas. It was established in 1895, making it the first San Antonio university to become accredited in the region. It also has the oldest school of Social Work in Texas.

    Over 3,200 students attend OLLU, which has an 11:1 student-to-faculty ratio. The school offers classes in 33 distinct areas, master’s degrees in 14, and two doctoral degree programs. USNR ranks OLLU 69th in the West region for 2019.

    OLLU offers an Online Master of Science (MS) in Nonprofit Management for those looking to learn much more about the nonprofit industry, and how to become a manager or other type of leader within it.

    Topics covered include finance and accounting, grant writing and fundraising, social media, getting results as an Executive Director, marketing, and so much more.

    The program culminates with a professional project students complete in conjunction with an instructor that demonstrates their ability to efficiently manage a nonprofit organization.

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  11. MERIT: 188
    View Profile Average Cost: $22,584

    Accelerated Online MBA in Nonprofit Leadership and Management

    Liberty University, Online Masters Degree, Online PhD, Online DegreeLiberty University (known as LU) is a privately-funded university known for their large online presence and main campus in Lynchburg, Virginia. Though a relatively young school, Liberty has grown to become one of the largest universities in the world. As an evangelical Christian university, the school is able to offer a wide range of theology-centered degrees. The university is by no means only a theology school, however. Wide degree offerings are available in person and online at LU.

    Liberty offers an Accelerated Online MBA in Nonprofit Leadership and Management that blends business courses with the skills needed to work as a leader in the nonprofit sector. Graduates will be able to make a tremendous impact on organizational success in many environments.

    Sample courses include Strategic Communication Campaigns for the Digital Age, Grant Acquisition & Management, Nonprofit Management, and Workforce Planning and Employment. Graduates will be prepared to fill roles as business administrators, philanthropists, or community activists, among others.

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  12. MERIT: 187.9
    View Profile Average Cost: $51,522

    Online Master of Science in Nonprofit Management

    Northeastern University, online degree programs, online college, college degree onlineNortheastern University(NU) is a privately-run research university that has a main campus located in Boston, Massachusetts. Satellite campuses for the school are found in North Carolina, Washington, California, and Canada. Additionally, the school has a robust offering of online degrees. This top-tier university is well known throughout research and business settings worldwide.

    Northeastern offers an Online Master of Science in Nonprofit Management that combines theoretical approaches with practical skills necessary for success in the nonprofit world.

    The program grapples with the lurking challenges of privatization and for-profit competition, giving graduates a keen business acumen and managerial skill set they can use to ward off these threats. It also builds up student leadership, managerial, and interpersonal skills.

    The curriculum explores areas like fundraising, governance, marketing, program development, and much more. There are many concentrations available in this program including Global Studies, Human Services, Leadership, Organizational Communication, Project Management, Social Media and Online Communication, and Sport and Social Change.

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  13. MERIT: 187.5
    View Profile Average Cost: $27,279

    Online MS in Nonprofit Leadership

    Cairn UniversityCairn is a private, nonprofit Christian university in Langhorne, Pennsylvania. It was founded in 1913. It confers degrees through schools of Divinity, Social Work Liberal Arts and Sciences, Business, Education, and Music.

    Over 1,000 students attend Cairn, which offers a 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio. USNR ranks Cairn tied at 126th among Regional Universities North for 2019. Undergraduate students are expected to take 30 semester hours of Bible studies.

    Cairn offers an Online MS in Nonprofit Leadership that has been noted for its affordability among comparable degrees. It features a leadership practicum created to give graduates the experience needed to become effective strategic leaders.

    Students will learn how to take effective business decisions and apply them to the nonprofit world, empower staff, coordinate others to enact an organization’s mission, and scale up organizational efficiency, among other outcomes. Sample courses include Nonprofit Strategy, Principles of Research, Financial Management for Nonprofit Organizations, and much more.

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  14. MERIT: 187.2
    View Profile Average Cost: $53,308

    Online Master of Science in Church Management

    villanova university, online college degree, online college programs, online master's degreeVillanova is a private research university in Radnor Township, Pennsylvania. It was founded by the Order of Saint Augustine in 1842 and is a member of the Augustinian Secondary Education Association.

    VU serves nearly 11,000 with an 11:1 student-to-faculty ratio. It’s currently ranked 49th among National Universities by USNR. It hosts the largest student-run Special Olympics in the world, and its students give their community a quarter-million hours of service every year. They’re also known for the continual success of their basketball program, and their large number of student-run organizations (over 250).

    Villanova offers an Online Master of Science in Church Management that will give graduates the ability to lead and serve churches in the modern landscape. This program can be completed in two years of part-time study.

    Significant skills are formed in stewarding (financial literacy, budgeting, and more), planning (strategy, technology/data, legal aspects of church management), organizing (human resources, organizational structure, working with advisory boards), and leadership (group dynamics, aligning faith community work and values), and much more.

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  15. MERIT: 187
    View Profile Average Cost: $13,365

    Accelerated Online Master of Science in Nonprofit Management

    JWU, Online College, online degrees, online master degree, master's degree onlineJohnson and Wales University (known as JWU) is a privately-funded university that has campuses in Colorado, Florida, North Carolina, and Rhode Island. Additionally, JWU offers many degree programs and certification programs fully online. Among the noteworthy programs at the university, perhaps none are more noteworthy than the culinary arts program, one of the best in the nation.

    JWU offers an Accelerated Online Master of Science in Nonprofit Management that prepares graduates to take managerial or other leadership positions at hospitals, churches, local, state and federal agencies, charities, social welfare organizations, and more. You’ll gain a thorough and detailed understanding of how nonprofits succeed daily and over time.

    Students will study resource development, management practices, quantitative and qualitative methods of evaluation, advanced theories, decision-making processes, among many other areas. Sample courses include Social Entrepreneurship, Personnel Deployment in Nonprofits, and Theory and Practice of Nonprofit Management.

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  16. MERIT: 186.8
    View Profile Average Cost: $12,192

    Online Master of Public Administration

    Ohio UniversityOhio University (known as OU) is the oldest university in the state of Ohio, and was originally created by a charter of Congress (the first university to have this designation). The central campus of the University system is located in Athens, Ohio. This regionally accredited university additionally offers many online degrees and certificates. The university is known nationally for a range of subjects.

    Ohio offers an Online Master of Public Administration for those who believe their success in the nonprofit world will come through preparation. It features concentrations in Public Leadership and Management, Non-Profit Management or State and Local Government Management. Neither the GRE or GMAT is required for this program.

    The program aims at giving students the skills they need to help the public in imaginative and effective ways. Graduates will be prepared to work as project managers, communicators, policy analysts, and financial thinkers.

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  17. MERIT: 186.5
    View Profile Average Cost: $10,710

    Online MBA in Nonprofit Management

    NLU, national Louis University, Online Master's degree programs, online college, online college courseNL is a private university based in Chicago, Illinois. It was founded in 1886. It also has satellite campuses near Chicago, in Florida, and Poland. NLU helped found the National Kindergarten Movement, the National Parent Teacher Association, and is seen as a pioneer in early childhood education.

    Over 4,900 students attend NLU, which has a 17:1 student-to-faculty ratio. USNR ranks the school in the 230-301st bracket among National Universities. They are known for their online offerings.

    NL offers an Online MBA in Nonprofit Management that will teach students how to utilize their individual strengths and parlay them into leadership skills in nonprofit management. Areas covered include nonprofit governance, fundraising and strategic philanthropy, and program evaluation.

    NL believes in a principle of authentic leadership articulated through examining common issues facing business issues and how to achieve success despite them. Graduates will be trained to make a positive organizational impact through integrity, passion for their work, and relationship building.

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  18. MERIT: 186.2
    View Profile Average Cost: $6,368

    Online Master’s in Nonprofit Management

    University of Central FloridaThe University of Central Florida (known as UCF) is a publically-funded university with satellite campuses in 10 locations around central Florida (and a main campus in Orlando). The university was originally founded to help in support of the space programs in the region. Today, a wide variety of degrees are offered through the university as well as a long list of fully online degrees and certificate programs.

    UCF offers an Online Master’s in Nonprofit Management that will help you deal with some of society’s greatest problems and work on behalf of people, environments, and causes that need the most assistance. The program aims to create effective, multifaceted leaders.

    Topics covered include volunteerism, grant management, resource management, ethics, program evaluation, and more. The program builds towards a capstone experience and an opportunity to become certified with the National Nonprofit Leadership Alliance.

    Students may also choose to earn this degree and a Master of Public Administration at the same time, doubling the positions they’ll be trained to work in (nonprofit and public agencies).

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  19. MERIT: 186
    View Profile Average Cost: $10,822

    Online Master of Nonprofit Leadership and Management

    ASU, Online Degree Programs, Online College, Online courses, online masters, online master degrees, online bachelor's degreeArizona State University is a public university with several campuses in Phoenix, and Arizona at large. It’s one of the largest public higher education institutions in the country. Over 51,100 students attend ASU, which has a 20:1 student-to-faculty ratio. It was established in 1885.

    USNR’s 2019 rankings named ASU No. 1 among the Most Innovative Schools in America, and 115th among National Universities. It was the fourth year in a row that they received the former distinction. Its online resources include enrollment counselors, academic advisers, and success coaches. ASU Online lets students choose from six start dates each year.

    ASU offers an Online Master of Nonprofit Leadership and Management that lets students improve and build skills they’ll need to thrive in leadership positions at nonprofits. Topics covered include the management of human resources (employees and volunteers), fundraising, evaluating programs fiscal management, governance in nonprofit organizations, and much more.

    The program builds towards a capstone course that encompasses the totality of materials learned throughout the program. Sample courses include Financial and Resource Management, The Nonprofit Sector, and Social Entrepreneurship.

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  20. MERIT: 185.7
    View Profile Average Cost: $8,607

    Online Master of Public Administration with a Nonprofit Management track

    Arkansas State University, A-State, Online Courses, Online Degree Programs, Hybrid DegreesArkansas State University is a public research university based in Jonesboro, Arkansas. The school was founded in 1909 and is the flagship campus of the Arkansas State University system. Over 13,900 students attend the school, which has a 17:1 student-to-faculty ratio. In 2019 USNR ranks it #95th in the Southern region.

    A-State offers master’s, bachelor’s and associate degrees through colleges of Agriculture and Technology, Business, Education, Engineering, Fine Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences, Media and Communication, Nursing and Health Professions, and Sciences and Mathematics.

    In recent years, A-State has increased its selectivity, leading to higher GPA’s and membership in its Honors College.

    Arkansas State offers an Online Master of Public Administration with a Nonprofit Management track that will enhance the careers of people working in nonprofits, allowing them to reach leadership or management positions at their organizations or others they intend to work for.

    The program was also created for people that want to make a difference in their communities. It can be taken 100% online. Sample courses include Public Information Management, an Internship in Public Administration, an MPA Capstone Experience, Nonprofit Planning and Marketing, and more.

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  21. MERIT: 185.3
    View Profile Average Cost: $26,200

    Online MBA with a Concentration in Nonprofit Management

    crown college, online college degrees, online christian college, online degree programCrown is a private Christian college based in St Bonifacius, Minnesota, close to Minneapolis. It’s known for its diversity of on-campus and online offerings. It’s affiliated with the Christian and Missionary Alliance.

    Over 1,300 students attend Crown, which has a 19:1 student-to-faculty ratio. USNR ranks it 46th in the Regional Colleges Midwest bracket. The school has more than 40 undergraduate degree programs available to students. Its online offerings include 3 associate degree programs, 10 bachelor’s degree programs, and 7 master’s degree options.

    Crown offers an Online MBA with a Concentration in Nonprofit Management that prepares students to deal with the current challenges in nonprofit leadership, including the competition for fundraising and marketing space.

    Pertinent coursework includes Leadership and Management for Nonprofits, Nonprofit Law, Fundraising and Philanthropy, Financial Management for the Nonprofit, and Marketing for Nonprofits. This program is taught through a Christ-centered lens.

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  22. MERIT: 185.2
    View Profile Average Cost: $8,938

    Online Philanthropy and Nonprofit Development Master of Arts

    University of Northern Iowa, UNI, online college programs, online master's degree, online collegeUNI is a public university in Cedar Falls, Iowa. It was founded in 1876. The school offers 90 majors across the colleges of Business Administration, Education, Humanities, Arts, and Sciences, Social and Behavioral Sciences, and through its graduate college.

    Nearly 11,900 students attend UNI, which has an 18:1 student-to-faculty ratio. In 2019 USNR ranks it tied for 25th in the Regional Universities Midwest section. The school features cooperative education, internships, and opportunities for international travel and study.

    UNI offers an Online Philanthropy and Nonprofit Development Master of Arts that is designed for nonprofit professionals with 3-5 years of experience. It requires no on-campus attendance.

    Students will build their skills and knowledge on fundraising, philanthropy, and nonprofits, gain a better understanding of ethics, policies, and legal issues central to the field, do scholarly research, and much more.

    The next cohort program begins in August 2019. Sample courses include Psychology, Law and Philanthropy, Evaluation, Research and Accountability, and Financial Decision Making for Youth/Human Services Agencies.

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  23. MERIT: 184.9
    View Profile Average Cost: $7,244

    Online Master of Public Administration with a Nonprofit Track

    University of Montana, college degrees online, online degree programs, masters degree, online masters degreeUM is a public research university based in Missoula, Montana. It’s the flagship school of the Montana University System and was founded in 1893. Over 11,865 students attend the school, enjoying a 17:1 student-to-faculty ratio.

    It’s known for ranking extremely high among all universities, and especially public ones, for its number of Rhodes Scholars. It also features a rare combination of academic rigor and physical beauty. Currently, USNR ranks it tied at 201st in the National Universities section of its rankings.

    UM offers an Online Master of Public Administration with a Nonprofit Track that is open to any students who wish to take it and can afford it. Students can take all or as many of the classes in the degree as they desire.

    This program was intended for practicing administrators and anyone else who wants to build skills necessary for nonprofit administration. There are no specific course meeting times. Other related options include certificates in public policy, nonprofit administration, and public administration, and an undergraduate minor in nonprofit administration.

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  24. MERIT: 184.2
    View Profile Average Cost: $37,914

    Online Master of Science in Management: Non-Profit Leadership

    New England College, online degrees, online master's degree, online coursesNEC is a private, non-profit college in Henniker, New Hampshire. Currently, over 2,800 students attend the school, which has an 18:1 student-to-faculty ratio.

    New England offers 37 bachelor’s degree programs, 12 master’s degree programs, and one doctoral degree program through schools of Arts & Sciences, Education, Management, and Natural & Social Sciences. USNR ranks NEC in the #142-#187 bracket in Regional Universities North. It’s known for its emphasis on experiential learning.

    NEC offers an Online Master of Science in Management: Non-Profit Leadership that will build understanding and skills in fundraising, volunteer management, non-profit governance, human resources, and more.

    Graduates will deeply grasp best business practices essential to the success of nonprofits through a multidisciplinary approach. Sample courses in the Non-Profit Leadership Concentration include Dynamics of Non-Profit Governance, Strategic Human Resource Management, Managerial Accounting and Finance for Leadership, and much more.

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  25. MERIT: 183
    View Profile Average Cost: $7,879

    Online Master of Nonprofit Leadership and Management

    Metro State University, Minnesota, online college degree, online master'sMetro State is a public university headquartered in St. Paul, Minnesota. It’s a member of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system. The school was founded in 1971. Currently, USNR ranks it in the 128-165th bracket of the Regional Universities Midwest.

    Nearly 8,150 students attend Metro State, which offers a 17:1 student-to-faculty ratio. The school offers 62 structured undergraduate degrees, self-designed degrees, certificates, 25 structured master’s, and individual master studies as well.

    Metro State offers an Online Master of Nonprofit Leadership and Management aimed at giving graduates new leadership and career opportunities at nonprofits. It tackles some of the most common and crucial issues facing nonprofit leaders and managers, nonprofit boards and program professionals.

    Students can also opt for traditional on-campus instruction or a hybrid format with online and in-person classes. This program builds towards a Capstone project that encapsulates all students have learned throughout. There are significant elective options along with core competencies in nonprofit professional study.

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  26. MERIT: 182.1
    View Profile Average Cost: $7,327

    Master of NonProfit Organization

    lsus, online programs, online courses, college online, online degree programs, online masters degreeLouisiana State University – Shreveport is a public university that was founded in 1967 and is located in Shreveport, Louisiana. The school offers 21 undergraduate degree programs, a dozen master’s degree programs, and a doctoral program in education.

    The school has an enrollment of 5,996, about half of whom are graduate students, and maintains a student-to-faculty ratio of 27 to 1. The school offers four master’s programs that can be completed entirely online, including a Master of Nonprofit Organizations.

    Louisiana State University – Shreveport offers an online Master of NonProfit Organization that is designed for middle and upper-level administrative roles at nonprofit organizations.

    The program requires the completion of 33 credit hours, the final 3 of which will be a directed final project that puts your classes to practical use. Students also have the option of specializing in Nonprofit Development which focuses on capital campaign design, annual giving campaigns, and planned giving to nonprofit organizations.

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    MS in Nonprofit Management

    gratz college, online programs, online masters degree, online master, nonprofit management degree onlineGratz College is a private, Jewish college that was founded in 1895, and is located in Melrose Park, Pennsylvania, just outside of Philadelphia. Grate college only has a student population of 247, 82 of whom are undergraduates because it is primarily an online and commuter school.

    The school maintains a 17 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio. One of their online degree programs is an online PhD in Holocaust and Genocide Studies, which is the first of its kind.

    Gratz College offers an MS in Nonprofit Management that can be completed entirely online and is designed to expand students’ understanding of economic, organizational, ethical, and social dynamics that are at play in nonprofit organizations.

    Students will have to complete 36 credit hours, as well as an applied research project where students work with social service providers, community service organizations, hospitals, and other institutions. Courses are offered in accelerated 8-week formats, allowing students to complete the degree in two years.

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  28. MERIT: 181.7
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    MPA in Nonprofit Sector Management

    California State University -- NorthridgeCalifornia State University – Northridge (CSUN) is a public state university that was founded in 1958 and is located in the Northridge neighborhood of Los Angeles, California. The university has a total enrollment of 41,319, 35,839 of whom are undergraduates, and the school maintains a 26 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio.

    It has the largest undergraduate student body in the University of California system. The university offers 134 different bachelor degree programs, 70 different master degree programs, and 3 doctoral degrees.

    CSUN offers an MPA in Nonprofit Sector Management that can be completed entirely online. As a Master of Public Administration degree program, the curriculum is designed for nonprofit professionals who will go into public service roles.

    The program is designed to be completed in 2 years with a cohort that you will take all of your classes with, giving students great networking opportunities that will last throughout their professional careers. The degree includes a Certificate in Nonprofit Sector Management that helps students get placed into ideal professional roles.

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  29. MERIT: 181.2
    View Profile Average Cost: $7,416

    Management Master’s Degree with a Nonprofit and Association Management Specialization

    University of Maryland University College, UMUC, Online College Programs, Online masters degree, online master'sThe University of Maryland – University College is a public university that was established in 1947, and is located in Adelphi Maryland. The school’s enrollment is 59,379, of which 45,604 are undergraduates.

    The school has a 19 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio. Recently the school has been focused on expanding its online degree options, and now have over 90,000 students worldwide, making it one of the largest distance-learning institutions in the world.

    The University of Maryland – University College offers a Management Master’s Degree with a Nonprofit and Association Management Specialization. The degree can be completed entirely online, though some classes have the option for students to attend on campus.

    The program requires the completion of 36 total credits, 6 of which can be transferred in from a previous institution. Degree candidates must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher at all times, and all requirements for the degree must be considered within a five year time period.

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  30. MERIT: 179.8
    View Profile Average Cost: $6,500

    Master of Arts in NonProfit Management

    University_of_Houston-Downtown-logoThe University of Houston – Downtown (UHD) is a public, state university that was founded in 1974, and is located across 40 acres in Downtown Houston, Texas.

    The total enrollment at UHD is 13,919, of whom 12,407 are undergraduates, and the university maintains a 19 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio. The university is divided into four different colleges which combine to offer 45 bachelor degrees and seven master degrees.

    UHD offers a Master of Arts in NonProfit Management that can be completed online. The program was designed by some of Houston’s most prominent nonprofit leaders, which means that students will be well connected within the city.

    The program focuses on entrepreneurial development, fundraising and grant riding, ethics, team building, and human resources. The online format is designed for maximum flexibility to accommodate students who have full-time employment.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Non-Profit Management Degrees and Careers

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What Can I Do With a NonProfit Management Degree?

A degree in NonProfit Management will prepare you for a number of lucrative and stable jobs in the field of non-profit organizations. Just because nonprofit companies aren’t fiscally focused doesn’t mean that their employees have to settle for low wages. Non-profit managers are some of the most integral parts of companies that do inspirational work for the public good and are usually compensated adequately for their sizable impact.

Some popular careers for nonprofit management graduates include:

  • Social and Community Service Manager: Community service managers devise, organize, and execute social service programs that provide aid to the public. They make an average annual salary of $65,320, and there are currently 147,300 full-time positions employed within the United States, with that number expected to increase by 18% over the next decade.
  • Medical and Health Service Manager: Health service managers coordinate medical and health services such as health clinics, hospitals, and physician offices. They make an average annual salary of $99,730, and there are currently 352,200 full-time positions employed within the United States, with that number expected to increase by 20% over the next decade.
  • human resources, human resource manager, human resource managementHuman Resource Manager: Human resource managers organize the administrative functions of institutions, often acting as a liaison between upper management and employees. They make an average annual salary of $113,300, and there are currently 136,100 full-time positions employed within the United States, with that number expected to increase by 9% over the next decade.

What Degree Do You Need to Work in a NonProfit?

What is a Graduate DegreeNonprofit companies offer a wide range of public services, which can require the skills of professionals with all kinds of professional and academic backgrounds. If you want to become an upper-level manager at a non-profit organization, then one of the best types of degrees to earn is a Masters in Non-Profit Management. However, there are a number of similar degrees that can prepare students for a career in the nonprofit sector. Some other great degrees for nonprofit professionals include:

  • Master of Public Administration (MPA): An MPA degree is similar to a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree, except it is designed for the public business sector. The curriculum is usually interdisciplinary with classes in subjects like sociology, ethics, law, and politics.
  • Master of Public Health (MPA): MPA programs are designed for students who will go into roles that increase the health of large populations. Many of the jobs they will find will be at nonprofit institutions. For some great degree options, check out our list of the Top 20 Online Masters of Public Health Programs.
  • Master’s of Healthcare Administration (MHA): Similar to an MPA degree, but focused more on administrative responsibilities, an MHA degree allows students to learn the skills they need to organize and execute healthcare services. For some great degree options, check out our list of The Top 25 Online Master’s In Healthcare Administration Programs.

What is a NonProfit Management Certificate?

non-profit management certificate, non-profit management degree, non-profit degree program, how to run a non-profit organizationA nonprofit management certificate is a professional certificate that attests to a student’s professional training in the field of nonprofit management. Certificate programs are often shorter than Master’s degree programs, and therefore do not go into as great of depth. Some certificate courses require the completion of 12 credits, whereas a master’s degree in nonprofit management will require the completion of over 30.

There are several benefits to earning a nonprofit management certificate instead of a master’s degree, including:

  • Career Advancement: Nonprofit management certificates can allow students to earn the credentials they need for promotion as fast as possible. If you already have an idea or a connection to a specific job, a nonprofit management certificate will allow you to earn the position without the full investment of a master’s degree program.
  • Price: The price of a nonprofit management certificate programs are usually calculated by the credit hour, and with a smaller amount of credits needed, they are generally very affordable. Additionally, nonprofit organizations will often pay for their employees to earn their nonprofit management certificate.
  • calendar, planning, time, time savingTime: Certificate programs can often be completed in less than a year, compared to a master’s degree program which usually takes at least two years. Earning your credentials as fast as possible can allow some job candidates to apply for a position that could be gone a year later.
  • Focus: With a limited amount of courses, certificate programs only require their students to take the most essential courses which will prepare them for roles in nonprofit management.

What is NonProfit Administration?

Nonprofit administration is the field of management within the public sector of nonprofit organizations. Nonprofit administrators need to have specific skills that are related to the field of nonprofit organizations, such as grant writing, fundraising, and politics.

Students who would like to enter the field of nonprofit administration should earn a Master’s Degree in Nonprofit Management or a similar degree. Nonprofit administrators work at a wide array of different organizations with their own specific goals and initiatives.

Some types of nonprofit organizations that require skilled administrators include:

  • Federal Credit Unions: Federal Credit Unions are financial cooperatives that are owned by the government. They offer their members competitive credit rates as well as other financial services.
  • Doctor or Ministry Degree, religion, nonprofit organization, online degree program, career in religionReligious Institutions: Churches, Synagogues, and Mosques all require administrators to keep track of their financial records and ensure the day-to-day functioning of the organization.
  • Educational Institutions: Public colleges, universities, and schools are nonprofit organizations and require administrators who can keep track of endowment, enrollment, and educational resources.
  • Charities: Charities are nonprofit institutions that fundraise money to address specific public problems. They require administrators who keep track of money flow and ensure that funds are being spent efficiently.
  • kittens, animals, animal charity, animal sanctuary, non-profit charityPrevention of Cruelty to Children or Animal Associations: Prevention of cruelty organizations are some of the most important organizations in your local community, and require the handwork of empathetic and understanding administrators.

What’s the Difference Between a NonProfit Management and MPA Degree?

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Masters of Public Administration (MPA) degrees are more common than NonProfit Management degrees and can be divided into a number of different degree specializations. Some MPA programs offer specializations in Nonprofit Management, which can be the equivalent of a NonProfit Management degree. Some schools offer both MPA and NonProfit Management degrees, and if that is the case, then the differences usually come down to the core curricula.

Management and Master of Public Administration (MPA) degrees are both designed to train students for administrative or managerial roles within the public sector. While the institutions that both degree graduates will seek employment at are similar, the role that they play there can be different. The difference in the skill set that each degree provide comes down to the differences within their core curricula.

Degree, study, phD, psychologyNonprofit Management Degrees will focus on subjects such as:

  • Nonprofit Marketing
  • Ethics of Public Service
  • Fundraising and Grant Writing

public administration, nonprofit management degree, online degree, online non-profit management, online public administrationWhereas an MPA Degree program will focus on:

  • Public Policy
  • Public Data Systems
  • Urban Studies

The difference between these degrees can vary based on the institution. If you find a school that looks like a good match for you, you can always request more information from the school about their program specifics.