In this article, we profile the top 20 affordable MBA nonprofit management online programs for 2021.
The nonprofit sector comprises approximately one-eighth of the entire American economy. Occupations within the nonprofit sector can provide a steady income while empowering you to make a difference. In online MBA programs, students may earn a concentration in nonprofit management. The concentration is designed to prepare students to meet the unique challenges of leading nonprofit organizations toward success. Affordable and accredited programs are available from some of the nation’s top-ranked colleges and universities.
20 Affordable MBA Nonprofit Management Online Programs Methodology
We reviewed approximately 55 colleges and universities that offered online MBA programs with nonprofit management concentrations. Selection criteria was based on accreditation and affordability. We gathered information from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES College Navigator) and verified accreditation on the school’s website. We then selected programs that cost less than $28,000 per year and ranked them according to raw affordability.
Below is our list of 20 affordable MBA nonprofit management online programs.
#20 – Judson University
Online MBA in Not-for-Profit Administration
Elgin, Illinois
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $27,500
Judson University, a private institution founded in 1963, offers an MBA nonprofit management online degree designed for working professionals. The program takes 18 months to complete by taking online courses. Core MBA classes cover topics like business analytics, ethical leadership, financial management, managerial economics, and operations and project management. The concentration digs into topics that align with contemporary practices in nonprofit management. The application process requires an earned bachelor’s from an accredited institution, with a 3.0 GPA. In addition to offering quality MBA programs, Judson is fully accredited and ranked with U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the school ranks #80 in best regional universities in the Midwest and #245-#321 in best online MBA programs.
#19 – Southern Oregon University
Online MBA in Nonprofit Management
Ashland, Oregon
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $19,002
Southern Oregon University’s online MBA nonprofit management program provides students with a broad knowledge base in the major functions and practices of business. The MBA program is 100% online; however, to earn the nonprofit management concentration, evening courses must be taken. To apply, you must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university, with an undergraduate GPA of 3.0. You must also submit a resumé with three professional references. Once enrolled, you may choose to earn the nonprofit management concentration by completing four courses. These courses cover topics like building a nonprofit brand, introduction to nonprofit organizations, and nonprofit grant writing. Southern Oregon University ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 75th best regional university in the West.
#18 – Lindenwood University
Online MBA in Nonprofit Administration
Saint Charles, Missouri
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $18,100
Lindenwood University’s MBA nonprofit management online degree program provides enrolled students with exposure to the philanthropic sector of business. Students earn an MBA with an emphasis in nonprofit administration by taking an additional four classes. The nonprofit administration courses cover topics like fundraising and revenue generation, human resource management for nonprofit organizations, nonprofit governance and law, and volunteer management. In addition to offering quality MBA programs, the school ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. The most current rankings include #298-#389 in best national universities and #179 in best online MBA programs (out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs).
#17 – Antioch University
Online MBA in Nonprofit Leadership
Yellow Springs, Ohio
Website
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $17,937
One of the most affordable master’s in nonprofit management online programs on our list is offered by Antioch University. The 33-credit MBA offers 100% online coursework, which may be completed in 22 months. Courses are taught by the same Antioch professors who instruct on campus. These courses cover topics like development and fundraising; nonprofit history, context, theories, and trends; and program planning and evaluation. Students will gain a strong foundation in business and graduate prepared to work in nonprofit leadership roles. Antioch is fully accredited with the Higher Learning Commission and offers an affordable online MBA for less than $18,000 per year.
#16 – Regent University
Online MBA in Not-for-Profit Management
Virginia Beach, Virginia
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $16,952
Regent University, a private and fully accredited institution, offers online MBA nonprofit management programs through the School of Business and Leadership. The program fuses business practices with the complexities of running a nonprofit. The ACBSP-accredited MBA can be completed entirely online. Courses for the concentration cover topics like managing not-for-profit and faith-based organizations, not-for-profit and faith-based organizations fundraising development, and not-for-profit start-up. A total of 42 credits are required for the completion of this degree. Beyond the quality degree offerings, Regent ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, these rankings include #298-#389 in best national universities and #142 in best online MBA programs.
#15 – Dakota Wesleyan University
Online MBA in Nonprofit Church Administration
Mitchell, South Dakota
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $14,400
Dakota Wesleyan University offers online MBA programs with various concentration options. One such option is the nonprofit church administration emphasis area. To earn the concentration, students must take six courses in addition to the required MBA classes. Core MBA courses cover topics like adaptive leadership and change management, conflict management, data-driven decision-making, financial analysis, and managerial accounting. Courses run eight weeks in length and there is no thesis requirement. In addition to being IACBE-accredited, Dakota Wesleyan ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. These rankings include #23 in best regional colleges in the Midwest and #23 in best value schools.
#14 – New England College
Online MBA in Non-Profit Leadership
Henniker, New Hampshire
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $14,228
New England College’s MBA nonprofit management online program focuses on the skills required of business professionals who have goals of working in nonprofit leadership. The MBA core curriculum consists of 28 credits while the nonprofit leadership curriculum is comprised of 12 credits. Courses cover a wide array of nonprofit management and leadership topics like dynamics of nonprofit governance, grant writing and project management, and strategic fundraising. The program is designed for both full-time and part-time professionals and can be completed in just 20 months. In addition to its accreditation, New England College offers rankings as one of the top regional universities in the North by U.S. News and World Report.
#13 – Johnson & Wales University
Online MBA in Nonprofit Management
Providence, Rhode Island
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,734
If you’re looking for a degree that can propel you into the nonprofit sector as a leader, Johnson & Wales University offers an online MBA in nonprofit management. This completely online degree offers eight-week courses that may be completed in just two years. However, for those interested in working at an accelerated pace, the fast-track MBA may be earned in just 15 months. Coursework is delivered 100% online, but classes are kept small. In fact, the average student-to-faculty ratio is 16:1. Courses cover topics like business policy and strategy, financial management and budgeting in nonprofit organizations, and program evaluation. JWU ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 96th best regional university in the North and the online MBA programs rank #185 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#12 – Cairn University
Online MBA in Non-Profit Management
Langhorne, Pennsylvania
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,762
Cairn University’s online MBA programs are customizable and flexibly designed. Students may select to take additional courses in nonprofit management that will lead to an earned concentration. The program consists of 42 credits and the standard completion time is just 20 months. Courses cover foundational and advanced business topics like creating and leading strategic organizations, financial management, global business and economics, and strategy and operations implementation. To successfully complete the program, students must complete all required coursework with a minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA. Cairn University ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 136th-176th best regional university in the North.
#11 – Endicott College
Online MBA in Non-Profit Management
Beverly, Massachusetts
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,555
Endicott College offers an online MBA nonprofit management degree that focuses on managing, marketing and fundraising, nonprofit leadership, and strategic planning for nonprofit businesses. The program may be completed entirely online with classes taught by Endicott faculty. In as little as 22 months, students may complete their degree requirements. Coursework is customizable and flexibly designed for working students. Also, most courses run six weeks in length, adding to the program’s fast-paced yet flexible format. In addition to the flexible class design, eight start dates are available per year so that students may jump into the program when time permits. Endicott ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 23rd best regional university in the North.
#10 – National Louis University
Online MBA in Nonprofit Management
Chicago, Illinois
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,096
The MBA nonprofit management online degree program at National Louis University can be completed entirely online with flexibly designed courses. Not only is the degree affordable, but it is conveniently structured for working students. All classes are taught by NLU’s experienced faculty. These courses cover foundational and advanced business topics as well as nonprofit management topics for those earning a concentration. Nonprofit management courses include nonprofit organization, governance, and management; seminar in program evaluation; and strategic fundraising and philanthropy. National Louis is a fully accredited institution. Also, the school ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 298th-389th best national university.
#9 – Concordia University
Online MBA in Nonprofit Management and Leadership
Mequon, Wisconsin
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,172
Concordia University’s master’s in nonprofit management online program offers an MBA in nonprofit management and leadership. This online MBA degree helps students maximize their individual potentials and strengths as effective business leaders. Courses in nonprofit management and leadership cover topics like financial management of nonprofit organizations, fraud management, legal issues in nonprofit organizations, and nonprofit fundraising grant writing. Applicants of the program must hold an earned bachelor’s degree and offer two signed letters of recommendation. However, GRE test scores are not required. In addition to being accredited, Concordia ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 258th best national university. Also, the online MBA programs at Concordia rank #245-#321 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#8 – Salve Regina University
Online MBA in Nonprofit Management
Newport, Rhode Island
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,010
Salve Regina University offers online MBA programs that include a concentration in nonprofit management. The concentration focuses on administrative positions in nonprofit fields such as education, health care, labor unions, and performing arts among others. Some of the courses cover topics like fundraising and marketing for nonprofits, human resources management, nonprofit financial management, and nonprofit management. The program is IACBE-accredited and flexibly designed for working students. Also, Salve Regina is ranked with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 31st best regional university in the North and the 31st best value school. In addition to the school’s rankings, the online MBA programs rank 191st out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#7 – Johnson University
Online MBA in Nonprofit Management
Knoxville, Tennessee
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,670
Johnson University’s master’s in nonprofit management online program offers advanced preparation for those seeking leadership roles in business. The online MBA is ACBSP-accredited and incorporates biblical teachings and missional concerns from a Christian perspective. Also, students may select one of three concentration options in leadership, management, or nonprofit management. For the nonprofit management concentration, classes cover topics like nonprofit resource development, project design management, social entrepreneurship, and the nonprofit sector. To apply, students need not supply GRE or GMAT test scores. Johnson University, a private Christian college, is fully accredited and recognized by U.S. News and World Report as an unranked faith-related school.
#6 – Crown College
Online MBA in Nonprofit Management
Saint Bonifacius, Minnesota
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,990
Crown College’s online MBA nonprofit management is an award-winning program that integrates a Christian worldview with business practices. Courses are delivered entirely online and consist of 21 core phase credits and 15 concentration credits. Courses in nonprofit management cover topics like financial management for the nonprofit, fundraising and philanthropy, leadership and management for nonprofits, marketing for nonprofits, and non-profit law. With no GRE required for admission and eight-week courses that move at a fast pace, the program is ideal for working professionals who want to balance school with outside obligations. Crown College is fully accredited and ranked with U.S. News and World Report. Rankings include #119-#156 in best regional universities in the Midwest.
#5 – Asbury University
Online MBA in Nonprofit Management
Wilmore, Kentucky
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,990
One of the most affordable online MBA programs on our list is the online MBA in nonprofit management at Asbury University. For less than $10,000 per year, students may earn an online MBA. The program takes as little as 18 months to complete and offers eight-week courses with the traditional track. However, students are free to work at their own pace. For the nonprofit management concentration, students take classes that cover contemporary topics applicable to the nonprofit industry. Courses include business analytics, nonprofit financial management, nonprofit marketing, and strategic fundraising. Asbury, in addition to being fully accredited, ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. These rankings include #9 in best regional universities in the South.
#4 – Carson-Newman University
Online MBA in Non-Profit Leadership
Jefferson City, Tennessee
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,227
The master’s in nonprofit management online program at Carson-Newman University offers an online MBA and ten-course non-profit leadership concentration. Coursework is delivered entirely online with classes taught by the same instructors who teach on campus. The non-profit leadership concentration is comprised of classes that cover relevant nonprofit business topics. These courses include accounting and financial management, global poverty and social change, leadership, social entrepreneurship – building just and sustainable communities, and strategic management. Carson-Newman is fully accredited and ranked with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, recent 2021 rankings include #298-#389 in best national universities and #68 in top performers on social mobility. Also, the online MBA programs rank #172 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#3 – Touro University Worldwide
Online MBA in Nonprofit Management
Los Alamitos, California
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,000
Touro University Worldwide’s online MBA programs include the online MBA in nonprofit management. With a quick completion time of one year and six start dates, the program is ideally designed for working professionals. As a full-time student, you may earn your degree in just 12 months. Courses are delivered online and cover topics that are relevant to both business and the nonprofit management industry. Courses cover both theory and practice, training students as the next generation of business experts. Admission to the program requires an earned bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with a minimum overall GPA of 2.5. In addition to being fully accredited, Touro ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report.
#2 – Wilmington University
Online MBA in Nonprofit Management
New Castle, Delaware
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,834
Wilmington University, a private institution ranked by U.S. News and World Report, offers a master’s in nonprofit management online program designed for working students. This fully online degree equips students for careers in nonprofit management and the competitive business job market. The degree emphasizes nonprofit leadership practices, administrative governance, and fundraising. Courses cover topics like administrative law, fund development and fundraising in the human service environment, and nonprofit management seminar. Wilmington is accredited and ranked by major publications. The most recent rankings from U.S. News and World Report include #298-#389 in best national universities and #386 in top performers on social mobility.
#1 – Liberty University
Online MBA in Nonprofit Leadership and Management
Lynchburg, Virginia
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,400
The most affordable MBA nonprofit management online program on our list is offered by Liberty University. The Liberty MBA is ACBSP-accredited and takes approximately two years to complete. Up to 50% of the degree total credits may be transferred; however, a significant portion of the credits must be completed at Liberty. Featured courses in the nonprofit leadership concentration cover topics like grant acquisition and management, nonprofit management, strategic communication campaigns for the digital age, and workforce planning and employment. A total of 45 credits must be earned to complete the degree requirements for the online MBA. In addition to being ACBSP-accredited, Liberty ranks with U.S. News and World Report as a top 300 best national university. Also, the online MBA programs rank #185 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What can I do with an MBA in nonprofit management online degree?
Graduates of MBA in nonprofit management online programs can work in a variety of positions and at different organizations. For example, careers can be found in advocacy, higher education, trade associations, and other institutions and organizations. However, finding the right fit means choosing an occupation wisely. Below are several possible job pathways for graduates of MBA nonprofit management online programs.
CEO of a nonprofit organization: CEOs leading nonprofit organizations oversee employees, finances, fundraising, and volunteer efforts. They are often responsible for the goals of the nonprofit, including initiatives. Most CEOs have advanced business degrees, such as an MBA in nonprofit management online degree.
Director of development: Nonprofit directors of development create and carry out the fundraising plans of an organization. They often solicit donors and oversee PR strategies and the organization’s brand. A graduate degree is preferred for this role.
Executive director: Executive directors of nonprofit organizations hold graduate degrees, such as an online MBA in nonprofit management. These leaders are responsible for creating and guiding the vision of a nonprofit organization. They also oversee the nonprofit’s fundraising strategies, staff, and web presence.
Program assistant or coordinator: Program coordinators working in nonprofits typically hold bachelor’s degrees, though some positions require graduate degrees. Program coordinators oversee certain aspects of the organization, such as a charity, fundraising event, or particular social service.
How much can I earn with an MBA in nonprofit management online degree?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Handbook published in 2019, the median annual wage for public relations and fundraising managers was $116,180. The lowest ten percent of earners in this occupation made less than $64,790, while the highest ten percent earned over $208,000.
Four top-paying industries for public relations and fundraising managers, according to BLS, are as follows:
Scientific and technical services: $133,480
Management positions of companies: $131,560
Civic, grantmaking, professional, and religious organizations: $117,430
Educational services for local, state, and private institutions: $102,530
With an online MBA in nonprofit management, you may also work as a fundraiser for different organizations. According to BLS, the median annual pay for fundraisers is approximately $58,000. While the lowest ten percent of earners in fundraising positions made $33,530, the highest ten percent of earners made $100,410.
Five top-paying industries for fundraisers include the following:
Local, state, and private educational services paid their fundraisers a median annual wage of $63,090 and are considered to be the top-paying industry for fundraisers. The second highest-paying industry is civic, professional, and religious organizations, which pay fundraising workers a median annual wage of $57,750. The administrative and support services industry paid fundraisers $54,970. The fourth highest-paying industry is arts, entertainment, and recreation. This industry pays fundraisers a median annual wage of $54,600. The fifth highest-paying industry is healthcare and social assistance, which pays fundraisers $53,440.
What is the job outlook for individuals with an MBA in nonprofit management online degree?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), nonprofits account for 12.3 million jobs and over ten percent of the total U.S. private sector employment. Most of these jobs are found in particular geographic locations, such as Washington D.C. In fact, the District of Columbia has the highest percentage of nonprofit employment (26%).
The latest projections indicate a favorable job outlook for individuals working in nonprofit management. BLS reports employment for public relations and fundraising managers is expected to grow nine percent through 2029, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. In fact, about 7,600 job openings for public relations and fundraising managers are projected each year. Most of these job openings will result from the need to replace individuals who retire or transfer to different occupations. However, strong competition should be expected. As a result. Individuals with graduate degrees, such as the MBA nonprofit management online degree, should see the best job prospects.
Fundraisers working for nonprofit organizations should also see a favorable job outlook. In fact, the employment of fundraisers is projected to grow 14 percent through 2029, which is also much faster than the average for all occupations. Employment growth for this occupation is expected to be driven by the need for organizations to raise money.
Are there professional associations I can join as a student enrolled in an MBA in nonprofit management online program?
While earning an online MBA in nonprofit management, students should look for professional associations they can join. Professional associations provide membership to graduate and undergraduate students, offering access to career centers, online education, and networking opportunities. Below is a sampling of some of the professional associations one may join as a student enrolled in an MBA in nonprofit management online program.
Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP):
The AFP is a professional association that advances philanthropy through advocacy, education, and research. Also, the AFP offers a comprehensive website with a career center that is ideal for young professionals and graduate students. An online mentoring program and international conference are among many of the association’s benefits.
The Alliance for Nonprofit Management:
The Alliance for Nonprofit Management is comprised of a group of nonprofit academics, consultants, fundraisers, and other professionals who share ideas, innovation, and research. The association hosts an annual conference for its members and has an expansive career center that provides resources and access to discussions.
Young Nonprofit Professionals Network (YNPN):
The YNPN has more than 40 chapters nationwide and is made up of professionals and emerging leaders within the nonprofit sector. Access to conferences, fellowships, and networking opportunities makes the YNPN a valuable association for students.
What are the admission requirements for MBA nonprofit management online programs?
Admission requirements for MBA nonprofit management online programs vary by school, but overall, the criteria are similar. Most of the programs on our list require an earned bachelor’s degree for admission. The bachelor’s degree should be earned from an accredited institution. Some of the programs on our list ask that the bachelor’s degree come from a regionally accredited college or university, while others require only a nationally accredited institution award the degree.
The bachelor’s degree need not be earned in business, though many programs ask that applicants complete foundational business courses when applying for an MBA program. Typically, though, students need only an accredited bachelor’s degree in any discipline.
In addition to an accredited bachelor’s degree, applicants may be required to supply letters of recommendation from individuals who can attest to academic performance and character. Letters of recommendation may be required from previous professors, employers, or other individuals who can write about a student’s research experience and academic potential.
Other admission criteria include a written personal statement or goals, a completed resumé, and minimum undergraduate GPA. Top-ranked colleges and universities may require a minimum GPA of 3.0 or better, while lower-ranked institutions may require a minimum GPA of 2.5.
BCO Staff
November 2020
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