* Please note there is no application fee for graduate applications submitted by the Priority Deadline - a savings of $75.

Why earn your Master of Science (MS) degree  in Strategic Nonprofit Management online at CUNY SPS?

The MS in Strategic Nonprofit Management at CUNY School of Professional Studies (CUNY SPS) equips you with the strategic, financial, and leadership skills needed to drive mission-driven organizations forward. Make a greater impact on the nonprofit sector and earn your degree with a program that has a flexible schedule designed for working professionals.

About This Program

• Format: Online and Asynchronous  
• Credits: 30 total
• Time to Completion: As little as 3 semesters, depending on course load
• Schedule: 7-week sessions
• Start Terms: Fall, Spring
• Tuition: Part-time students - NYS residents: $470 per credit

Why This Program

• Designed for working professionals in the nonprofit and public sectors who are committed to advancing social impact
• Build strategic leadership and management skills for mission-driven organizations  
• Accelerated 7-week courses allow you to stay focused and make steady progress  
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   Save money with courses that use free, high-quality learning materials in our Zero Textbook Cost (ZTC) program 

• Hands-on, practical curriculum that blends nonprofit management theory with experiential learning activities and real-world applications.
• Fully online format offers flexibility to balance work, school, and life  
• Taught by experienced and supportive nonprofit leaders and practitioners  
• Focus on learning real-world job skills, including fundraising, operations, and program evaluation

Who Is This Program For

• Current nonprofit professionals looking to advance into management or director-level roles.
• Career changers seeking to enter the nonprofit sector with applied leadership skills.
• Public service, education, or healthcare professionals who collaborate with nonprofits and want to formalize their training in nonprofit management.
• Individuals who want to lead with purpose, manage strategically, and make measurable impact. 

Skills You'll Gain

• Design and implement strategies that strengthen nonprofit organizations.
• Apply ethical and effective leadership and governance practices.
• Develop and manage budgets, fundraising plans, and grant proposals.
• Use data, analytics, and emerging technologies to drive impact and accountability.
• Apply communication and marketing strategies to engage persuasively with boards, funders, and community stakeholders. 

Career Outcomes

• Nonprofit Director or Manager
• Program Operations Manager
• Development or Fundraising Manager
• Grants or Data & Evaluation Manager
• Executive Director or Chief Operating Officer 

Graduates are prepared to lead organizations in health and human services, education, arts and culture, community development, and social enterprise settings. 

Program FAQ and Admissions Information 

 

What are the admission requirements for the MS in Strategic Nonprofit Management program? 

To apply for the online MS in Strategic Nonprofit Management program, applicants must: 

• Hold a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution, with a GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale.
• Submit a personal statement describing professional goals and interest in strategic nonprofit management.
• Provide a résumé or CV highlighting relevant experience.
• Include a letter of recommendation which speaks to academic and professional abilities.
• Submit official transcripts from all institutions attended, both undergraduate and graduate.
• Participate in an interview, if requested.

Professional experience relevant to graduate study is strongly preferred, but not required.

Applicants not meeting the MS in Strategic Nonprofit Management (MSSNPM) admissions criteria will be denied admission but may be offered admission to the Advanced Certificate in Nonprofit Management (ACNPM)-MS in Strategic Nonprofit Management Bridge Program. Upon successful completion of all four Advanced Certificate in Nonprofit Management courses with a grade of "B" or higher in each course, students will be offered admission to the MS in Strategic Nonprofit Management program. Upon admission to the MS program, all 4 of the Advanced Certificate in Nonprofit Management courses will automatically transfer over for credit to the MS in Strategic Nonprofit Management. Students enrolled in the Advanced Certificate in Nonprofit Management do not qualify for financial aid. To be considered for the ACNPM-MSSNPM Bridge Program, you must first apply to the MSSNPM program. 

What are the MS in Strategic Nonprofit Management application deadlines at CUNY SPS and how do I apply for the program? 

Apply now and view application deadlines here.

What are some of the courses in the program?

Some of the courses include Nonprofit Leadership and Governance Strategies, Budgeting and Grants, Marketing, Human Resource Management, AI and Data Analytical Strategies, and Strategic Design Thinking. You can view the full course catalog here. 

How are the 7-week sessions structured? 

Courses are delivered in accelerated 7-week sessions, allowing you to focus on fewer subjects at once while maintaining momentum toward your degree. 

Are there textbook costs for the program?

No. This program follows a Zero Textbook Cost (ZTC) model, using free, high-quality learning materials to reduce your overall expenses.

Do I need prior nonprofit experience?

No. The program is designed for both current nonprofit professionals and those seeking to transition into the sector.

What types of organizations do graduates work for?

Graduates work across nonprofits, foundations, government agencies, and mission-driven organizations in areas such as healthcare, education, and social services. 

Will I gain hands-on experience? 

Yes. Coursework emphasizes real-world application, including fundraising strategies, program evaluation, and organizational leadership. 

Can this degree help me move into a leadership role?

Yes. The curriculum is designed to prepare you for management and executive-level roles within nonprofit organizations.

General FAQ

 

Is this program fully online?

Yes. The program is delivered 100 percent online. 

Are courses asynchronous and what does that mean? 

There are no required live class sessions. Students complete coursework online on a set schedule with flexibility around timing. 

Is this program designed for working professionals? 

Yes. The fully online format and focused certificate structure are designed for individuals balancing school with work and other responsibilities. 

How do I request information about the program or contact admissions? 

You can request program information here or reach out to Admissions

Text: (646) 517-7876
Email: admissions@sps.cuny.edu
Phone: (646) 664-8544

When can I start? 

You can start during the Fall or Spring term. 

How long does it take to earn my online degree? 

The degree may be completed in as little as 2 semesters, depending on courseload. 

Is financial aid available?

Graduate financial aid options may be available to eligible students. Learn more here. 

Are there scholarships that I can apply for? 

Learn more about CUNY SPS scholarships, CUNY-wide scholarships, external scholarship opportunities, scholarships and grants for veterans, and general scholarship information here. 

What support services are available for students? 

Students have access to academic advising, career services, professional development resources, counseling, disability services, veteran services, writing support, tutoring, library resources, and a range of student support services. 

How do I learn more about student life? 

You can learn more about student life here, and view our list of student clubs and organizations here. 

Is CUNY SPS accredited? 

Yes. CUNY SPS is part of the accredited City University of New York system.