An online doctoral degree in non-profit management may prepare individuals to take a leadership role in charitable and non-profit organizations. In this three to five-year program, students may learn how to raise and manage funding for charitable organizations, identify sectors that have a need for assistance, and organize volunteers and personnel to carry out charitable campaigns. Program coursework may integrate research-heavy dissertation courses and major coursework including strategic fund development, financial analysis, and strategy and performance in non-profit organizations.

Upon graduation, students may seek employment in their chosen non-profit capacity. Doctoral-level graduates may seek employment opportunities in government programs, charitable organizations, non-profit organizations, and social service programs.

Program Overview

• Prerequisite: Bachelor’s Degree at minimum
• Program Length: Three to five years to complete
• Post-Grad Options: Employment
• Projected Employment Growth: 27% (2010-2020)*

Program Coursework

The curriculum for doctoral-level non-profit management degree programs may combine dissertation research courses, electives, and major coursework. These courses may teach students how to identify diverse population needs, develop and manage budgets, and analyze statistical data to determine the impact of service programs. Core non-profit management classes may include the following:

• Strategic Fund Development
• Financial Analysis and Reporting for Non-Profit Leaders
• Leading Resource Performance in Non-Profit Organizations
• Non-Profit Legal Issues
• Strategy and Performance in Non-Profit Organizations
• Innovation and Future Trends in the Social Sector
• Advanced Fund Development Philosophy and Practice

Career Options

Doctoral-level graduates may pursue employment opportunities in charitable organizations, advocacy organizations, government, non-profit organizations, and social services organizations. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities in social and community service management are projected to increase by 27% from 2010-2020.*

Possible careers include:

• Chief Development Officer
• Executive Director
• Fundraising Director
• Foundation Director
• University Professor

*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook