An online master’s degree in non-profit management may equip individuals with the leadership skills necessary to coordinate and supervise non-profit organizations. In this one to two-year program, students may learn how to engage communities in fundraising efforts, develop and manage non-profit budgets, and implement improvements to social programs and services. Program coursework may include a combination of specialized electives along with major courses including financial management, leadership and organizational development, and government leadership.

Upon graduation from the program, students may either seek employment or pursue a doctoral degree. Master’s-level graduates may gain employment in social services, community services, government, and charitable programs.

Program Overview

• Prerequisite: Bachelor’s Degree
• Program Length: One to two years to complete
• Post-Grad Options: Employment or Doctoral Program
• Projected Employment Growth: 27% (2010-2020)*

Program Coursework

The curriculum for master’s-level non-profit management degree programs may include some business electives alongside major coursework. These classes may examine the history of non-profit organizations, the role of social justice, and advanced leadership skills. Core non-profit management classes may include the following:

• Human Resource Management in Non-Profit Organization
• Financial Management
• Research Methods for Non-Profit Organizations
• Leadership and Organizational Development
• Government Leadership
• Program Development
• Social Justice and the Non-Profit Sector

Career Options

Master’s-level graduates may seek career opportunities in charitable organizations, government programs, social service programs, and non-profit programs. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, social and community management employment opportunities are projected to increase by 27% from 2010-2020.*

Possible careers include:

• Social and Community Manager
• Non-Profit Manager
• Foundation Director
• Training Director
• Fundraising Manger

Continuing Education

Students who successfully complete a master’s degree may have the opportunity to continue their education by enrolling in a doctoral degree program. These programs may teach students how to become leaders in the non-profit sector in order to satisfy emerging social challenges.

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