Online Master of Nonprofit Leadership and Management
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.
Quick facts
Next start date: 08/21/2025
Total classes: 11
Weeks per class: 7.5
Total credit hours: 33
Gain the knowledge and skills you’ll need for nonprofit leadership roles
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.
Will my diploma say ‘online’?
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.”
Nonprofit management master’s courses
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.
Prepare for leadership roles in nonprofit management
Upon graduating from this program, you can pursue advanced roles in a number of specialities based on your interests throughout nonprofit organizations. Career examples include, but are limited to:
- Advocacy director
- Development director
- Events manager
- Fundraising manager
- Nonprofit executive
- Philanthropy director
- Public relations manager
- Social or community service manager
- Volunteer manager
Accomplished and distinguished instructors in community service
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.
Accomplished and distinguished instructors in community service
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.
How to apply
Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and the Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions.
Nationally recognized public service programs
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.
#2
best graduate homeland security and emergency management programs, according to U.S. News & World Report.
#2 in the U.S. and #7 in the world
for hospitality, leisure, sport and tourism, according to the Center for World University Rankings.
Top 5
Master of Nonprofit Leadership and Management in the nation, according to U.S. News & Report.
Top 10
best online master's in criminal justice programs for veterans, according to U.S. News & World Report.
Tuition calculator
Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.
Tuition calculator
Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.
