Best Online Nonprofit Management Programs
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The adage "do good, do well" — essentially, "help people while earning a decent living" — is more possible than ever these days. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), social and community services managers earned a median annual salary of $74,000 in 2021, which far outstrips the median annual salary for all occupations ($45,760). Furthermore, the BLS projects 12% job growth for these professionals between 2021 and 2031.
Online bachelor's in nonprofit management programs often take four years to complete and can help students take advantage of this growth and salary potential. With additional experience, graduates can also pursue careers in the private sector as public relations or fundraising managers, who earned a median annual salary of $119,860 in 2021, according to the BLS.
What Can I Expect From an Online Bachelor's in Nonprofit Management Program?
Students with an altruistic streak and an aptitude for business often do well in nonprofit management programs. Nonprofit professionals should feel comfortable seeking out donations, managing budgets, and advocating for a cause. As such, extroverted, mission-driven, detail-oriented students are often good fits for bachelor's in nonprofit management programs.
Bachelor's in nonprofit management programs usually require approximately 120 creditsƒacc and take about four years to complete. Students who enroll in an online and accelerated programs may be able to graduate more quickly. Learners can also graduate more quickly by taking courses during each summer semester instead of just the fall and spring.
Many programs encourage students to complete internships at nonprofit organizations to gain experience in the field. Distance learners can usually arrange to complete these internships at approved sites in their own communities.
Nonprofit management is often offered as a concentration within bachelor of business administration programs. As such, nonprofit management students usually can't pursue additional specializations, and students often complete foundational business coursework before delving into information specific to the nonprofit sector.
Featured Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Best Accredited Online Bachelor's in Nonprofit Management Programs
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Colorado State University-Global Campus
Aurora, CO - 4 years
- Online
Based in Greenwood Village, CSU-Global offers various asynchronous programs for distance learners, including a degree specialization in public and nonprofit management.
Students in the program complete a bachelor of science in business management, healthcare administration and management, or project management. They can earn the specialization by completing 15 credits of courses like public policy and strategy, fundraising and grant writing, and public administration.
Applicants must submit proof of a high school or GED diploma to earn admission.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Cost per Credit: $350 per credit
- Program Length: 4 years
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 120 credits (including 15 credits for the specialization)
- Degree Completion Program: No
- Instruction style: Asynchronous
- Format: Online
- School Status: Public
- Program Accreditation: Varies depending on the bachelor's degree program
- School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, NH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Though based in Manchester, SNHU offers online programs, including a bachelor's in business administration to approximately 135,000 students around the globe. SNHU offers nonprofit management as a concentration within the business administration bachelor's program. Students complete courses like human resource management, social environment of business, and organizational behavior.
SNHU accepts applications on a rolling basis, and students can transfer up to 90 credits. Prospective students only need to complete an online application and submit all prior transcripts. They do not need to submit ACT or SAT scores.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Cost per Credit: $320 per credit
- Program Length: 4 years
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 120 credits
- Degree Completion Program: No
- Instruction style: Asynchronous
- Format: Online
- School Status: Private
- Program Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
- School Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
Bay Path University
Longmeadow, MA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Longmeadow, Massachusetts, Bay Path offers an online bachelor's in nonprofit management that eliminates all in-person requirements. Notable courses include program development and monitoring, fundraising and financial reporting, and foundations of the nonprofit sector. Since Bay Path only admits women to its undergraduate programs, students also take a course in women as empowered leaders and learners.
Applicants must submit all prior high school and college transcripts with a minimum GPA of 2.0. All prospective students must also complete a phone interview.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Cost per Credit: $410 per credit
- Program Length: 4 years
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 120 credits
- Degree Completion Program: No
- Instruction style: Asynchronous
- Format: Online
- School Status: Private
- Program Accreditation: N/A
- School Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
LeTourneau University
Longview, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Based in Longview, Texas, LETU offers a bachelor's of business administration degree program with a concentration in nonprofit management. To earn the concentration, students must complete four courses: grant writing, fundraising, nonprofit leadership and management, and philanthropy. All LETU students must also complete courses in biblical literature and biblical theology for the Christian life.
Applicants must submit high school transcripts and earn a minimum composite score of 20 on the ACT or 1030 on the SAT.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Cost per Credit: $380-$410 per credit
- Program Length: 4 years
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 120 credits
- Degree Completion Program: No
- Instruction style: Asynchronous
- Format: Online
- School Status: Private
- Program Accreditation: N/A
- School Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Central Michigan University
Mount Pleasant, MI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
CMU's online bachelor's in public and nonprofit administration allows students to supplement their degree with optional certificates in areas like international nongovernmental administration, public policy analysis, and citizen engagement. Before they graduate, all learners must complete a relevant internship at an approved site near them. The program's diverse curriculum delves into topics like public budgeting, nonprofit leadership, and public sector human resources.
Applicants need a high school or GED diploma with a minimum 2.0 GPA. Military students qualify for a significant tuition discount.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Cost per Credit: $425-$450 per credit
- Program Length: 4 years
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 120 credits
- Degree Completion Program: No
- Instruction style: Asynchronous
- Format: Online
- School Status: Public
- Program Accreditation: N/A
- School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Huntington University
Huntington, IN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Based in Huntington, Indiana, HU offers several online programs designed for military students and working professionals, including a bachelor's in not-for-profit leadership. To earn the degree, students must complete relevant courses in grant writing and administration, public relations, nonprofit leadership and governance, fundraising, and public policy. As a Christian university, HU takes a faith-based approach to education.
Prospective students must submit a high school or GED diploma with a minimum 2.3 GPA. They must also submit ACT or SAT scores.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Cost per Credit: $402 per credit
- Program Length: 4 years
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 128 credits
- Degree Completion Program: No
- Instruction style: Asynchronous
- Format: Online
- School Status: Private
- Program Accreditation: N/A
- School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Colorado Christian University
Lakewood, CO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Lakewood, CCU offers an accelerated online bachelor's in nonprofit management that serves busy adults with family and work commitments. Each course lasts for five weeks, and students take one course at a time. Core courses include grant writing, nonprofit program development, nonprofit law, and fundraising analytics. The program culminates in a capstone seminar.
Admission to the program only requires a high school or GED diploma. Incoming transfer students can bring up to 90 credits with them when they enroll.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Cost per Credit: $469 per credit
- Program Length: 4 years
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 120 credits
- Degree Completion Program: No
- Instruction style: Asynchronous
- Format: Online
- School Status: Private
- Program Accreditation: N/A
- School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Lakeland University
Plymouth, WI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Based in Plymouth, Wisconsin, Lakeland offers an online bachelor of business administration with an emphasis in nonprofit management. To complete the emphasis, learners must take four courses: introduction to nonprofit organizations, strategic planning for nonprofit organizations, managing nonprofit organizations, and fundraising. They must also complete a relevant internship in the field.
All incoming students, both first-years and transfers, must have a minimum GPA of 2.0. Applicants must also submit all prior high school and college transcripts.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Cost per Credit: $541 per credit
- Program Length: 4 years
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 120 credits
- Degree Completion Program: No
- Instruction style: N/A
- Format: Online or hybrid
- School Status: Private
- Program Accreditation: N/A
- School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Toccoa Falls College
Toccoa Falls, GA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
TFC's online bachelor's in nonprofit business administration allows students to pursue a minor in management, marketing, organizational leadership, or sport management. Notable courses include nonprofit financial management, nonprofit law and governance, and volunteer engagement and resource management. All students must also complete 30 credits of Bible and theology coursework in accordance with TFC's mission.
First-year applicants must submit high school transcripts and ACT or SAT scores. TFC awards transfer credit on a case-by-case basis.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Cost per Credit: $350 per credit
- Program Length: 4 years
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 126 credits
- Degree Completion Program: No
- Instruction style: N/A
- Format: Online
- School Status: Private
- Program Accreditation: N/A
- School Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
North Park University
Chicago, IL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Chicago, NPU provides learners with the flexibility to earn a bachelor's in nonprofit management entirely online or by taking some on-campus courses. Students in the program take courses in strategic management, nonprofit governance and volunteer management, and building public and financial support for nonprofit organizations.
Applicants must submit transcripts from all previously attended schools, as well as a current resume. NPU's School of Professional Studies does not require an application fee.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Cost per Credit: $570 per credit
- Program Length: 4 years
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 120 credits
- Degree Completion Program: No
- Instruction style: Asynchronous
- Format: Online or hybrid
- School Status: Private
- Program Accreditation: N/A
- School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Still Looking for the Right Fit? Discover Similar Programs.
What Courses Will I Take in an Online Bachelor's in Nonprofit Management Program?
-
Public Administration
This survey course provides learners with the foundational knowledge they need to run nonprofit and government agencies. Covered topics may include strategic planning, policymaking, law, and ethics. -
Finance for the Public Sector
In this course, learners delve into finance and budgeting in governmental and nonprofit organizations. Possible topics include financial acquisition, distribution, and obligations to taxpayers and donors. -
Public Policy and Strategy
This course teaches learners how to create, implement, and evaluate public policies. Students discuss accountability to nonprofit boards, governmental agencies, and citizens during policymaking. -
Fundraising and Grant Writing
Fundraising and grant writing are essential tools for nonprofit development. In this course, students learn about major gifts, annual campaigns, social enterprises, technology in fundraising, and corporate philanthropy. -
Human Resource Management in the Public Sector
This survey course delves into human resources specializations — including recruiting, onboarding, training, compensation, and evaluation — within the context of public and nonprofit agencies.
Featured Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
What Can I Do With an Online Bachelor's in Nonprofit
Since most nonprofit management students also gain foundational business administration knowledge, they can qualify for careers in both the nonprofit and private sectors. And while nonprofit management is not necessarily a popular major, it can lead to a variety of jobs, since it is often linked to business.
Nonprofit management graduates can pursue careers in the nonprofit sector, business, fundraising, careers in public relations, and social services careers. According to Payscale data from July 2023, nonprofit program coordinators, who are entry-level employees in the field, earn an average annual salary of $48,030.
With experience, nonprofit professionals can advance into managerial and supervisory roles, where they can benefit from significant demand. For example, the BLS projects 12% job growth for social and community services managers between 2021 and 2031.
Career Paths
Social and Human Service Assistant
Social and human service assistants supporting social workers and rehabilitation specialists. They may help clients find assistance with activities of daily living or complete applications for Medicaid or SNAP programs. These entry-level professionals typically work for local government agencies, nursing homes, or family support organizations.
Median Annual Salary (May 2021): $37,610
Nonprofit Program Coordinator
Program coordinators serve as the face and voice of the organization to the population they intend to serve. These junior-level professionals may provide services directly, manage volunteers, or work with board members. Program coordinators can eventually compete for jobs as national program managers or executive directors.
Average Annual Salary (July 2023): $48,030
Nonprofit Executive Director
Executive directors serve as the CEOs of nonprofit organizations. They spearhead fundraising campaigns, oversee budgets, and supervise and direct staff and volunteers. They also recruit new employees and serve as the voice of the organization. Executive directors report to the governing board.
Average Annual Salary (July 2023): $72,750
Social and Community Services Manager
Social and community service managers supervise programs that benefit the public. These professionals work with communities to identify necessary services, raise money to support the services, oversee public awareness campaigns, and provide administrative support. This role may require a bachelor's degree plus work experience or a master's degree.
Median Annual Salary (May 2021): $74,000
Fundraising Manager
Fundraising managers lead campaigns that bring money into their organizations. They may devise fundraising strategies, meet donors face-to-face, apply for grants, and manage other fundraising staff. These professionals typically hold a bachelor's degree or master's degree and may have earned a Certified Fund Raising Executive designation.
Median Annual Salary (May 2021): $119,860
Nonprofit Management Not For You? Check Out These Related Careers.
Continuing Education
Gaining experience in the field is the most important form of additional education for working nonprofit professionals with a bachelor's degree. However, they can also pursue a master's degree in nonprofit management to increase their salary potential and chances at managerial positions like fundraising manager, executive director, and community and social services manager.
If they don't want to commit to an entire graduate degree, nonprofit professionals can pursue a graduate certificate in nonprofit management. These programs usually require 12-18 credits and take one year or less to complete.
Featured Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bachelor's in Nonprofit Management Programs
Is a bachelor's in nonprofit management worth it?
Yes, for graduates who aspire to create social change or serve their communities, a bachelor's degree in nonprofit management is worth it. The booming nonprofit sector provides opportunities for lucrative and rewarding careers in a variety of roles.
What can I do with a bachelor's in nonprofit management?
A nonprofit management degree can lead to a career in fundraising, operations, human resources, or direct service provision. For example, a graduate could become a fundraising manager, a career that earns a median annual salary of $119,860.
Are nonprofit management majors in high demand?
According to research by Johns Hopkins University's Center for Civil Society Studies, the nonprofit sector is the third-largest industry in the U.S. and employs 12.5 million people. Overall, nonprofit organizations are dynamic, growing, and diversifying, employing vast numbers of professionals.
How much money can I make with a bachelor's in nonprofit management?
According to the BLS, fundraising managers in 2021 earned a median annual salary of $119,860. Chief executive officers and other top executives can also earn much higher than average salaries.
How long does it take to get a bachelor's in nonprofit management?
Usually, it takes four years to earn a bachelor's degree in nonprofit management. Most bachelor's programs consist of 120 credits, and learners complete 30 credits each year. Transfer students may take less time.
