The Master of Arts in Nonprofit Leadership, Global Cultures, and Social Enterprise is a fully online, asynchronous graduate program designed to accelerate career prospects of early and mid-career professionals for leadership roles by developing practical skills and knowledge needed within the evolving work of nonprofits. The 30-credit program provides a robust learning experience, giving students flexibility with a 5-week course structure to accommodate a busy life and the tools and competencies needed to thrive in the nonprofit sector.
Whether you’re working in the nonprofit sector, exploring public service, or charting your next move, this program helps you lead with confidence. The MA in Nonprofit Leadership builds in-demand skills in nonprofit management, fundraising, leadership, and social impact while connecting you to MSU’s robust career services and global alumni network.
The online and asynchronous format makes it possible for busy professionals to pursue a new credential without stepping away from their current positions. Time to completion ranges from 4 semesters to 5 years. Small class sizes allow for frequent and substantial interaction with peers and highly experienced faculty. A fully accredited program offering flexible pacing to fit your schedule and commitments.
The Nonprofit Leadership, Global Cultures, and Social Enterprise M.A. is a professional degree built to empower existing and future nonprofit leaders to reach their potential. With a Master of Arts in Nonprofit Leadership from MSU, graduates will be prepared to:
• Explore values and ethics in organizational leadership and nonprofit management
• Write a winning grant proposal
• Master nonprofit legal and regulatory frameworks
• Find donors interested in supporting the work of your organization
• Learn effective, ethical governance strategies of nonprofit institutions and civil society organizations
• Identify fundraising and marketing strategies within the nonprofit environment
• Be a more effective driver of social change
Related Program: Graduate Certificate, Nonprofit Leadership
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 M.A. 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 - MA 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.
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.
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.
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.
At least 30 credits are required for the degree under Plan A (with thesis) or Plan B (without thesis). At least 15 credits must be at the 800-level.
Requirements for Both Plan A and Plan B
Complete a minimum of 26 credits from the following: