Business - Nonprofit leadership or administration

Display Title
Nonprofit leadership or administration
Slug
nonprofit-leadership-administration
interest area reference

Online Bachelor of Science in Nonprofit Leadership and Management

Developed by community leaders and top-tier faculty, this curriculum aligns with industry trends to prepare you for the nonprofit workforce. You’ll gain the expertise to address society’s most pressing challenges, from environmental sustainability and public health to community development and international relief. This program also examines the future of the nonprofit sector, including emerging technologies, social entrepreneurship and data-driven decision-making.

Whether you want to contribute talent to a local nonprofit or lead global advocacy efforts, you’ll graduate prepared for the next step in your career. Your knowledge will enable you to oversee fundraising initiatives, recruit and train volunteers, build community partnerships, lead corporate social responsibility programs and advocate for policy change. As you gain experience, you can advance into leadership roles, including executive director positions.

The skills you’ll develop

This program builds versatile skills, equipping you to support causes that matter most to you. You’ll develop expertise in organizational management to set mission-focused goals, create strategic plans and navigate governance structures. Strong marketing and communication skills will allow you to craft compelling messages, engage donors and enhance nonprofit branding. Through practical learning opportunities, you’ll also gain abilities in:

  • Advocating for public awareness on key issues
  • Applying ethical research methods to support community-based initiatives
  • Designing outreach programs that create a lasting impact
  • Managing budgets with ethical financial stewardship

Who’s a good candidate for this program?

This program is ideal for individuals committed to making a difference, regardless of their nonprofit experience. Compatible backgrounds include work or volunteer experience in human services, education and youth development, government and public service, corporate social responsibility and related fields. A passion for service and a willingness to learn leadership and management skills are also essential. Completing this program can support your transition into nonprofit leadership or expand the impact of your current role.

With a focus on mission-driven leadership, this degree prepares you to guide nonprofit and public-sector organizations dedicated to social impact. If you’re more interested in corporate management and generating profit, one of ASU’s online business degrees may be a better fit. You could also pair this program with a business minor.

Program Field of Study
Bachelor of Science
Program Focus
Nonprofit Leadership and Management
Program Name Abbreviation
Nonprofit Leadership and Management (BS)
Program Category
Degree Image
Students in the online nonprofit leadership and management degree engage in a discussion around a conference table, with a woman standing and leading the conversation.
Program Description Intro

Arizona State University’s online Bachelor of Science in nonprofit management and leadership equips passionate changemakers with the skills to strengthen communities and drive meaningful change. This program blends leadership training, strategic management and hands-on learning to prepare you to champion causes that matter most to you.

Plan Code
PPNLMBS
Program code
UGPP
Start Date
Areas of Interest
Courses Summary

Courses provide knowledge in areas such as ethical leadership, community service evaluation and voluntary action. You’ll examine how nonprofits address community needs and assess the impact of individual and collective efforts. The program culminates in a service learning course or a six-credit internship with a nonprofit organization. Both options provide hands-on experience and insight into the impact of mission-driven work.

Total Classes
37
Total Credit Hours
120
Program Fee Code
Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions - Undergraduate Programs
Courses Section Title
Nonprofit leadership and management courses
Program start date manual
Title
Industry experts dedicated to training the next nonprofit leaders
Description

The impressive faculty in the Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions inspire the next generation of public service leaders through real-world solutions to issues in areas such as child welfare, safety, city management, human trafficking and water scarcity. Faculty highlights include:

  • Fellow of the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences
  • Fellow of the American Psychological Association
  • Member of the National Academy of Public Administration
Accolade title
Nationally recognized public service programs
Accolade Description

The Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions is a comprehensive public service college dedicated to addressing social problems through teaching, research and service. Our programs, which range from public policy and social work to criminal justice and emergency management, are designed to prepare graduates to make a difference in their communities.

Accolade item
Accolades Title
#2
Accolades Description

best graduate homeland security and emergency management programs, according to U.S. News & World Report

Accolades Title
#2
Accolades Description

in the U.S. and #7 in the world for hospitality, leisure, sport and tourism, according to the Center for World University Rankings

Accolades Title
Top 5
Accolades Description

Master of Nonprofit Leadership and Management in the nation, according to U.S. News & Report

Accolades Title
Top 10
Accolades Description

best online master's in criminal justice programs for veterans, according to U.S. News & World Report

Accolades Title
Top 10
Accolades Description

best online master’s in criminal justice programs, according to U.S. News & World Report

Accolades Title
Top 10%
Accolades Description

of graduate programs in social work, according to U.S. News & World Report

Accolades Title
Top 15
Accolades Description

best graduate public affairs programs, according to U.S. News & World Report

Admission requirement title
How to apply
Manual Cost
false
Weeks per Class
7.5
Academic Career
Undergraduate
Program fee code for resident
UPO301
Program fee code for non-resident
UPO301
Program Description Title
Make a lasting impact, locally and globally
override admission requirement
Off
Apply Now URL
https://webapp4.asu.edu/uga_admissionsapp/?term=2261&session=SESA&campus=ONLNE
Slug
bs-nonprofit-leadership-management
Program Generated Code
UGPP-PPNLMBS
Title
Will my diploma say ‘online’?
Description

No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”

Academic Partner
Entity Type
Program Features

Online Nonprofit Leadership and Management Graduate Certificate

In this nonprofit management certificate program, you’ll develop general leadership abilities and knowledge needed to oversee a nonprofit organization. Specific areas of focus include creative problem-solving, strategic planning, fundraising, volunteer management and more. You’ll also learn the history and philosophy of nonprofits while taking a deeper dive into the concepts of theory, research and practice used in modern nonprofit management.

Earn a master’s degree through stackable certificates

This graduate certificate can stand alone or serve as a main certificate toward a Master of Advanced Study. To complete the degree, you’ll stack a second 15-credit graduate certificate. This opportunity allows you to design a program tailored to your career goals and interests.

When admitted, connect with your academic advisor about stackable MAS options.

What makes me a good candidate for this nonprofit leadership and management certificate?

The nonprofit leadership and management certificate is ideal for students who have or wish to gain professional work experience in the nonprofit sector. This certificate is also a good option for those currently pursuing a master’s degree. Earning a graduate certificate in nonprofit leadership and management can build a bridge between your current skill set and other senior roles in this field. Overall, this certificate complements several areas of study, including:

  • Emergency management and homeland security.
  • Family and human development.
  • Health care innovation.
  • Public safety leadership and administration.
  • Sustainability leadership.

Can this certificate prepare me to start a nonprofit or operate a small, local organization?

While the nonprofit management certificate can support a variety of professionals, it is not intended to address the needs of individuals who are:

  • Planning to start a new nonprofit.
  • Seeking a practical education on operating a small nonprofit.

If these situations apply to you, you may want to consider alternative options for learning, such as the ASU Lodestar Center’s Nonprofit Management Institute.

Program Field of Study
Graduate Certificate
Program Focus
Nonprofit Leadership and Management
Program Name Abbreviation
Nonprofit Leadership and Management (Graduate Certificate)
Program Category
Certificate Type
Graduate
Degree Image
Three nonprofit leaders engage in a discussion while sitting in a meeting room.
Program Description Intro

Earning a graduate certificate in nonprofit leadership and management helps you strengthen your current knowledge and abilities, supporting the pursuit of senior roles in this field. By combining your current skill set with an advanced understanding of how nonprofits function, you’ll be prepared to effectively organize and manage an organization’s operations.

Plan Code
PPNONPROCE
Program code
GRPP
Start Date
Areas of Interest
Courses Summary

Through this program’s connection to the Master of Nonprofit Leadership and Management, you can access a rich variety of coursework led by a faculty dedicated to philanthropy. A broad range of electives empowers you to focus on nonprofit topics most relevant to your career goals.

Total Classes
5
Total Classes Tooltip
Courses are offered 100% online
Total Credit Hours
15
Total Hours Tooltip
Required number of credits to complete this degree
Program Fee Code
GP0180
Courses Section Title
Graduate certificate in nonprofit leadership and management courses
CIP code
52.02
Title
Learn from educators who deeply understand nonprofit operations
Description

The impressive faculty in the Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions inspire the next generation of public service leaders through real-world solutions to issues in areas such as child welfare, safety, city management, human trafficking and water scarcity. Faculty highlights include:

  • Fellow of the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences.
  • Fellow of the American Psychological Association.
  • Member of the National Academy of Public Administration.
Accolade title
Nationally recognized public service programs
Accolade Description

The Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions is a comprehensive public service college dedicated to addressing social problems through teaching, research and service. Our programs, which range from public policy and social work to criminal justice and emergency management, are designed to prepare graduates to make a difference in their communities.

Accolade item
Accolades Title
#2
Accolades Description

best graduate homeland security and emergency management programs, according to U.S. News & World Report.

Accolades Title
#2
Accolades Description

in the U.S. and #7 in the world for hospitality, leisure, sport and tourism, according to the Center for World University Rankings.

Accolades Title
Top 5
Accolades Description

Master of Nonprofit Leadership and Management in the nation, according to U.S. News & Report.

Accolades Title
Top 10
Accolades Description

best online master's in criminal justice programs for veterans, according to U.S. News & World Report.

Accolades Title
Top 10
Accolades Description

best online master’s in criminal justice programs, according to U.S. News & World Report.

Accolades Title
Top 10%
Accolades Description

of graduate programs in social work, according to U.S. News & World Report.

Accolades Title
Top 15
Accolades Description

best graduate public affairs programs, according to U.S. News & World Report.

Admission requirement title
How to apply
Admission requirement description

Applicants to the graduate certificate in nonprofit leadership and management program must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and the Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions.

Admission requirement item
Title
Application requirements
Description

Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they’ve earned a bachelor's or master's degree in any field from a regionally accredited institution.

Applicants must have a minimum of a 3.00 cumulative GPA in the last 60 hours of their bachelor's program. Alternatively, applicants must have a minimum of a 3.00 cumulative GPA in an applicable master’s degree program.

All applicants must submit:

  • Graduate admission application and application fee.
  • Official transcripts.
  • Proof of English proficiency.
Title
Additional admission information
Description
  • This certificate is designed for applicants with an exploratory interest in studying the nonprofit sector. Strong applications will include a personal statement that demonstrates this interest.
  • An applicant whose native language is not English (regardless of current residency) must provide proof of English proficiency.
Manual Cost
true
Weeks per Class
7.5
Academic Career
Graduate
Program Description Title
Which topics does this certificate in nonprofit leadership and management focus on?
override admission requirement
Off
Apply Now URL
https://webapp4.asu.edu/dgsadmissions/Index.jsp?term=2261&session=REG&campus=ONLNE
Slug
nonprofit-leadership-and-management-graduate-certificate
Program Generated Code
GRPP-PPNONPROCE
Title
Will my certificate say ‘online’?
Description

No, Arizona State University’s certificates and diplomas don’t specify whether you earn them online or in person. All certificates, diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”

Schedule to talk
Academic Partner
Entity Type
Program features

Online Master of Nonprofit Leadership and Management

This program emphasizes skills that prepare you to positively influence the mission of an organization and the community it supports. By earning a master’s in nonprofit leadership and management, you can pursue a variety of high-demand roles in leadership across the nonprofit sector. This MNLM also prepares you for government positions or roles within a commercial organization that works collaboratively with nonprofits. Careers in nonprofit management can span virtually all industries, including arts and culture, education, environment, animals, healthcare, human services, foreign affairs, research and religion.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment for social and community service managers is projected to grow 8% from 2023 to 2033, which is faster than average for all occupations. Another role this program prepares you for, public relations and fundraising managers, earned a median annual wage of $130,480 in May 2023, according to the BLS.

The nonprofit leadership and management skills you’ll gain

This master's degree allows you to build well-rounded knowledge and abilities in nonprofit management and leadership. In your coursework, you’ll develop skills in many areas that support the success of nonprofit groups, such as:

  • Advocacy.
  • Fiscal management.
  • Fundraising.
  • Governance in nonprofit organizations.
  • Leadership skills.
  • Management of human resources.
  • Nonprofit organization management.
  • Program development.
  • Volunteer management.

Other skills that translate directly into career paths are financial management, executive management and board governance, and program management and evaluation. Nonprofits are constantly seeking trained and experienced people with these competencies.

Who’s a good candidate for this program?

This program builds on management fundamentals while incorporating an emphasis on nonprofit organizations to help you develop specialized leadership knowledge. The ideal candidate for this program could be working in the nonprofit sector looking to advance in their role, or someone looking to enhance their nonprofit work experience. In this program, you’ll sharpen your abilities, develop new competencies and network with colleagues working throughout the nonprofit sector.

Program Field of Study
Master of Nonprofit Leadership and Management
Program Focus
Nonprofit Leadership and Management
Program Name Abbreviation
Nonprofit Leadership and Management (MNLM)
Program Category
Degree Image
A nonprofit management and leadership professor leads an instructional session in a conference room.
Program Description Intro

Arizona State University’s Master of Nonprofit Leadership and Management focuses on creating and advancing positive change in communities around the world. This specialized online degree equips you with the skills needed to pursue a variety of leadership positions within the nonprofit sector, such as roles in fundraising, advocacy and volunteer management.

Plan Code
PPNPSMNS
Program code
GRPP
Start Date
Areas of Interest
Courses Summary

During this program, you’ll first build knowledge in core courses that focus on subjects such as financial and resource management and the nonprofit sector. Then, you’ll choose your elective courses to build a specialized education that you’ll apply directly to your career goals.

Total Classes
11
Total Hours
33
Total Classes Tooltip
Multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year.
Total Credit Hours
33
Total Hours Tooltip
Required number of credits to complete this degree.
Program Fee Code
Nonprofit Leadership and Management, Master of, Admitted Fall 2019 or Later
Courses Section Title
Nonprofit management master’s courses
CIP code
52.02
Title
Accomplished and distinguished instructors in community service
Description

The impressive faculty in the Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions inspire the next generation of public service leaders through real-world solutions to issues in areas such as child welfare, safety, city management, human trafficking and water scarcity. Faculty highlights include:

  • Fellow of the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences.
  • Fellow of the American Psychological Association.
  • Member of the National Academy of Public Administration.
Accolade title
Nationally recognized public service programs
Accolade Description

The Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions is a comprehensive public service college dedicated to addressing social problems through teaching, research and service. Our programs, which range from public policy and social work to criminal justice and emergency management, are designed to prepare graduates to make a difference in their communities.

Accolade item
Accolades Title
#2
Accolades Description

best graduate homeland security and emergency management programs, according to U.S. News & World Report.

Accolades Title
#2 in the U.S. and #7 in the world
Accolades Description

for hospitality, leisure, sport and tourism, according to the Center for World University Rankings.

Accolades Title
Top 5
Accolades Description

Master of Nonprofit Leadership and Management in the nation, according to U.S. News & Report.

Accolades Title
Top 10
Accolades Description

best online master's in criminal justice programs for veterans, according to U.S. News & World Report.

Accolades Title
Top 10
Accolades Description

best online master’s in criminal justice programs, according to U.S. News & World Report.

Accolades Title
Top 10%
Accolades Description

of graduate programs in social work, according to U.S. News & World Report.

Accolades Title
Top 15
Accolades Description

best graduate public affairs programs, according to U.S News & World Report.

Admission requirement title
How to apply
Admission requirement description

Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and the Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions.

Admission requirement item
Title
Application requirements
Description

Applicants should have a minimum of a 3.00 cumulative GPA (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of a student's first bachelor's degree program.

All applicants are required to submit:

  • Graduate application and application fee.
  • Official transcripts.
  • Curriculum vitae or resume.
  • Personal statement.
  • Three reference letters with a combination of academic and professional references.
  • Proof of English proficiency if English is not a native language.

Eligibility

Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a bachelor's or master's degree, in any field, from a regionally accredited institution.

Title
Additional admission information
Description
  • An applicant whose native language is not English (regardless of current residency) must provide proof of English proficiency.
  • One of your reference letters should be from a former faculty member. Please note, references from friends and family members are not preferred.
  • Your personal statement should include sufficient detail to indicate compatibility with the educational objectives and the school.
    • Personal statements typically run around two single-spaced pages long.
    • If you don’t have nonprofit experience, discuss your other professional experiences and how they’ve set you up to switch into the nonprofit sector.
  • Nonprofit managerial experience is not required for admission. Applicants with at least three years of nonprofit managerial experience on their resume will be reviewed by the program director at the time of admission for a possible exception to the practicum requirement.
Manual Cost
false
Weeks per Class
7.5
Academic Career
Graduate
Program fee code for resident
GP0180
Program fee code for non-resident
GP0180
Program Description Title
Gain the knowledge and skills you’ll need for nonprofit leadership roles
override admission requirement
Off
Apply Now URL
https://webapp4.asu.edu/dgsadmissions/Index.jsp?term=2261&session=REG&campus=ONLNE
Slug
masters-certification-master-nonprofit-leadership-and-management
Program Generated Code
GRPP-PPNPSMNS
Title
Will my diploma say ‘online’?
Description

No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”

Schedule to talk
Academic Partner
Entity Type
Program features