

The Nonprofit Administration program is a 10-month full-time pathway designed for professionals and graduates seeking specialized knowledge in managing nonprofit organizations, social enterprises, and community initiatives. Across two semesters, participants explore organizational management, fundraising, financial management, governance, and strategic planning, combining theory with applied practice. The curriculum emphasizes the integration of management principles with mission-driven leadership, allowing students to analyze organizational challenges, implement effective strategies, and optimize operational performance. Through case studies, workshops, and applied projects, participants develop management expertise, strategic thinking, analytical skills, and leadership ability, preparing them for impactful roles in the nonprofit sector.
The program also focuses on applied research, ethical decision-making, and professional development. Students collaborate with faculty mentors, participate in consulting projects for real nonprofit organizations, and complete applied research linking organizational theory with practice. This immersive environment strengthens skills in program evaluation, financial oversight, governance, and stakeholder communication. Graduates leave the program equipped to lead nonprofit initiatives, advise organizations, or pursue further study in social enterprise management, positioning them for success in a wide range of nonprofit and mission-driven careers.
Semester 1 - Foundations in Nonprofit Administration
• Principles of Nonprofit Management
• Financial Management and Fundraising
• Organizational Behavior and Leadership
• Research Methods in Nonprofit Studies
Semester 2 - Applied Nonprofit Practice
• Governance and Ethics in Nonprofits
• Strategic Planning and Program Evaluation
• Marketing, Advocacy, and Stakeholder Engagement
• Capstone Project / Applied Consulting
Graduates of this program are prepared for careers where management expertise, strategic leadership, and organizational skills are essential. Potential career paths include nonprofit executive, program director, fundraising manager, social enterprise consultant, and community development leader, where graduates apply knowledge to manage operations, develop programs, secure funding, and implement strategic initiatives. The program equips students to work in nonprofits, NGOs, foundations, and mission-driven organizations, leading initiatives, improving organizational effectiveness, and advising leadership teams. Graduates are also positioned for advanced leadership roles, advisory positions, or further study in nonprofit management, offering diverse and impactful career opportunities.
This program provides a practical and applied approach to nonprofit management, strategic planning, governance, financial oversight, and applied research. Participants benefit from mentorship by experienced practitioners, interactive workshops, and applied projects that integrate management theory with real-world nonprofit challenges. The curriculum emphasizes ethical leadership, analytical problem-solving, and professional competence, preparing graduates to lead organizations, develop programs, and influence positive social impact. Through applied practice, research, and professional development, students gain the expertise, confidence, and leadership skills necessary to excel in careers in nonprofit administration and mission-driven organizations.
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 574 631 5000
Email: admissions@nd.edu
Address: University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, United States