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You can be ensured a return on your investment at Michigan State University.
As one of the top research universities in the world, Michigan State University has advanced the common good with uncommon will since 1855.
MSU pushes the boundaries of discovery and forges enduring partnerships to solve the most pressing global challenges while providing life-changing opportunities to a diverse and inclusive academic community.
MSU has been offering online degree programs since 1998. Our maturity is evident in the high quality of the learning experience enjoyed by our online students.
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Director of Nonprofit Leadership, Global Cultures, and Social Enterprise programs
Dr. Jennifer Marcy is the Director of the Nonprofit Leadership, Global Cultures, and Social Enterprise M.A. & Certificate Programs in the Department of Religious Studies. She plays a central role in strengthening the skills and capacities of both emerging and experienced nonprofit leaders. Through innovative, practice-focused curriculum and applied learning opportunities, she supports students as they prepare to address complex challenges facing communities at the local, national, and global levels. A dedicated educator and mentor, Dr. Marcy is passionate about preparing the next generation of nonprofit leaders and takes pride in supporting students as they pursue meaningful, impact-driven careers.
For seasoned nonprofit practitioners as well as newcomers to the sector, the graduate certificate in Nonprofit Leadership offers a rigorous professional development pathway. The online and asynchronous format makes it possible for busy professionals to pursue a new credential without stepping away from their current positions. Students complete 10 credits with one required 2-credit course in Religion, Cultural Knowledge, and Nonprofits. All credits are transferable to the Master of Arts in Nonprofit Leadership.
Time to completion for the graduate certificate ranges from 2 semesters to 5 years. Small class sizes allow for frequent and substantial interaction with peers and highly experienced faculty. Many of our alums complete the certificate to deepen leadership expertise or maintain professional credentials. This is a fully accredited program offering flexible pacing to fit your schedule and commitments.
The Nonprofit Leadership, Global Cultures, and Social Enterprise Graduate Certificate provides a strong foundation for existing and future nonprofit leaders to reach their potential. With a flexible design, students will be able to tailor the program to achieve the competencies necessary to advance their nonprofit career.
Nonprofit organizations are a sizable economic force employing 12.3 million people, with payrolls exceeding those of most other U.S. industries, including construction, transportation, and finance. Whether currently working in the nonprofit sector or looking to enter the job market, program participants will be able to leverage their knowledge gained from the Graduate Certificate to reach their career goals and grow beneficiary impact. Professionals with rigorous training and education in the field can find opportunities in many areas domestically and internationally spanning health services, education, social assistance, religious organizations, environmental groups, arts and recreation, and international development organizations.
Graduates of Nonprofit Leadership, Global Cultures, and Social Enterprise can expect job titles and median salaries similar to the following:
Disclaimer: Salary data is sourced from © 2026 Lightcast, based on information from the Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW). Please note that this information is intended solely for reference purposes. MSU Online disclaims any responsibility or liability for any inaccuracies, omissions, or errors in the data.
Complete four courses from the following (8 credits):
Students can start the program in any semester. We recommend applications are submitted at least one month prior to the start of the semester to allow time for processing.
The university reserves the right to make changes in the types, structures, rates for fees, and tuition. Every effort will be made to give as much advance notice as possible. In addition to tuition and fees, there are other expenses associated with your Cost of Attendance. A breakdown of a graduate student budget can be found on the "Estimate Your Cost of Attendance" page.
MSU provides programs and initiatives that support and enhance diversity. We will expand our campus and external partnerships to put in place inclusive recruitment and retention practices. We nurture and promote individuals’ varied experiences and perspectives, ensuring structures and processes make possible full participation by all members of our community.
MSU actively collaborates with campus and external partners to innovate across all dimensions of graduate education. We create and support networks that increase collaboration and improve educational opportunities for our online students.
MSU’s nationally recognized online programs foster student growth and well-being throughout their academic career. We will expand inclusive mentoring practices and accelerate improvement across units to implement evidence-based practices to ensure our students complete successfully.
Continuing education can be one of the most exciting, challenging, and rewarding experiences you undertake in your life. We hope you consider becoming a Spartan, to learn online and reach your career goals. With highly ranked online programs and exceptional professors, we educate students who advance the common good with uncommon will.