Nonprofit Management
The Master of Science in Nonprofit Management is a one and a half year full time program designed for students seeking advanced knowledge in organizational leadership, strategic management, and resource development within nonprofit and mission driven organizations. The curriculum integrates nonprofit governance, financial management, fundraising, program evaluation, and applied research to provide a comprehensive understanding of how to lead and sustain effective nonprofit organizations. Through this program, students develop strategic leadership skills, organizational management expertise, fundraising and resource development competencies, and analytical research abilities, preparing them to manage complex nonprofit initiatives and drive organizational impact.
This on campus program offers a dynamic, practice oriented learning environment where lectures, workshops, case studies, and applied projects allow students to implement strategies in real world nonprofit contexts. Students refine financial planning and budgeting, program evaluation and impact measurement, strategic planning, and stakeholder engagement through collaborative projects and research assignments. Graduates are prepared to work in nonprofit leadership roles, social enterprises, philanthropic organizations, government agencies, and consulting firms, equipping them to lead teams, optimize resources, implement impactful programs, and contribute to sustainable social change.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Nonprofit Management
- Degree Type: Master of Science
- Duration: 1,5 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 01 June 2026
- Location: Columbia University, United States
- Field of Study: Management Studies
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations in Nonprofit Management
• Principles of Nonprofit Leadership
• Financial Management for Nonprofits
• Strategic Planning and Organizational Development
• Research Methods in Nonprofit Management
Semester 2 – Advanced Nonprofit Strategy and Practice
• Fundraising and Resource Development
• Program Evaluation and Impact Assessment
• Seminar in Nonprofit Leadership
• Applied Project in Nonprofit Management
Semester 3 – Applied Research and Organizational Implementation
• Capstone Project in Nonprofit Management
• Leadership and Governance Strategies
• Stakeholder Engagement and Communication
• Elective Modules in Social Innovation, Policy, or Management
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for careers in nonprofit leadership, social enterprise management, program evaluation, philanthropy, and consulting. Career paths include nonprofit director, program manager, fundraising strategist, policy advisor, and organizational development consultant. Graduates are equipped to manage organizational resources, develop effective programs, lead teams, evaluate social impact, and provide strategic guidance to enhance mission achievement. The program also prepares learners for leadership and advisory roles in nonprofit boards, social initiatives, and consulting organizations, enabling them to implement sustainable strategies, improve organizational effectiveness, and contribute meaningfully to social change and community development.
Why Choose This Program
Students choose this program because it combines nonprofit leadership, strategic management, fundraising and resource development, and applied research skills within a one and a half year intensive framework. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical application, allowing learners to acquire competencies necessary for leading mission driven organizations effectively. Graduates gain the knowledge, confidence, and expertise to pursue careers in nonprofit leadership, social innovation, program evaluation, and consulting while contributing meaningfully to sustainable social impact, organizational growth, and evidence based decision making in diverse nonprofit and social enterprise contexts.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 212 854 1754
Email: admissions@columbia.edu
Address: University of Columbia, Admissions Office, New York, NY, United States
