Nonprofit Leadership
The Nonprofit Leadership Master of Science program at Pennsylvania University is a 10-month, full-time graduate degree crafted for individuals who aspire to lead mission-driven organizations with strategic vision, financial acumen, and social impact. This intensive program blends core leadership training with nonprofit-specific knowledge in governance, fundraising, social innovation, and organizational management. Designed to reflect the evolving needs of the nonprofit sector, the curriculum equips students to navigate real-world challenges while advancing equity, sustainability, and community engagement.
Students engage with interdisciplinary coursework, case-based learning, and hands-on projects that develop their ability to lead organizations with integrity and purpose. The program is well-suited for early- to mid-career professionals, nonprofit staff, or social entrepreneurs who want to deepen their leadership skills and expand their influence in areas such as education, public health, international development, or arts and culture. With mentorship from faculty and practitioners, students build a strong foundation for impactful careers that drive social good.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Nonprofit Leadership
- Degree Type: Master of Science
- Duration: 10 months
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 01 February 2026
- Location: University of Pennsylvania, United States
- Field of Study: Leadership
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Strategic Foundations in Nonprofit Leadership
- Principles of Nonprofit Governance and Ethics
- Financial Management and Budgeting for Nonprofits
- Leadership Theory and Organizational Behavior
- Program Evaluation and Social Impact Measurement
Semester 2 – Innovation, Advocacy, and Applied Practice
- Fundraising Strategy and Donor Relations
- Policy Advocacy and Community Partnerships
- Social Entrepreneurship and Innovation in the Nonprofit Sector
- Capstone Project: Leadership Challenge in a Real-World Organization
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Nonprofit Leadership program are well-prepared for impactful roles in nonprofit organizations, foundations, philanthropic networks, advocacy groups, and social enterprises. Career pathways include positions such as executive director, program manager, development officer, policy advisor, or community engagement strategist. Many lead or contribute to initiatives in education, health equity, environmental justice, youth development, or global humanitarian efforts. The program also supports graduates in founding their own organizations or transitioning into consulting roles focused on strategy, equity, or leadership development. As nonprofit and civil society sectors continue to address critical global issues, skilled leaders who combine mission alignment with operational excellence are increasingly in demand.
Why Choose This Program
This program delivers a powerful and focused learning experience for those who seek to lead with purpose, accountability, and innovation in the nonprofit world. The 10-month format is ideal for professionals who want to make a fast, strategic leap forward without compromising on academic rigor or practical relevance. Students benefit from close faculty mentorship, peer collaboration, and direct exposure to leading nonprofit organizations. The curriculum emphasizes ethical leadership, financial sustainability, and measurable impact, ensuring graduates are ready to manage complex teams, secure funding, and design programs that create real change. For those passionate about making a difference through organizational leadership, this program offers the skills, mindset, and network to amplify your impact in any mission-driven field.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 215 898 5000
Email: admissions@upenn.edu
Address: University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
