Online Bachelor of Science in Nonprofit Leadership and Management
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.
Quick facts
Next start date: 08/21/2025
Total classes: 37
Weeks per class: 7.5
Total credit hours: 120
Make a lasting impact, locally and globally
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.
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 leadership and management courses
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.
The jobs a nonprofit management degree prepares you for
A career in nonprofit management opens doors for opportunities in charities, foundations, advocacy groups, social services organizations and arts and cultural institutions. Other career paths include positions in government agencies, social enterprises, international NGOs, educational institutions and faith-based organizations. Your skills can also pave the way for industry credentials and career advancement.
Graduates are prepared to make an impact in roles including, but not limited to:
Advocate
CEO
Community Specialist
Compliance Manager
General Manager (GM)
Public Relations Manager (PR Manager)
Regulatory Affairs Manager
Social Services Director
Industry experts dedicated to training the next nonprofit leaders
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
Industry experts dedicated to training the next nonprofit leaders
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
first-year student
You’re considered a first-year student for application purposes if you’ve never attended college or have fewer than 12 transferable credit hours.
Don't meet admission requirements?
You can still gain general admission to most online programs at ASU through Earned Admission. Through this pathway, you can demonstrate your ability to succeed at ASU by completing online courses with a 2.75 GPA or higher.
To begin, submit an application to ASU. An enrollment coach will reach out with more information if Earned Admission is right for you.
*Some programs may have higher admission requirements. You must meet all program requirements to be admitted.
Don't meet admission requirements?
You can still gain general admission to most online programs at ASU through Earned Admission. Through this pathway, you can demonstrate your ability to succeed at ASU by completing online courses with a 2.75 GPA or higher.
To begin, submit an application to ASU. An enrollment coach will reach out with more information if Earned Admission is right for you.
*Some programs may have higher admission requirements. You must meet all program requirements to be admitted.
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.
