Master's in Public Administration | nonprofit management concentration and certificates
Celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2004, the nonprofit studies concentration is nationally recognized among the largest graduate management programs for its deep commitment to local communities. Nonprofit studies participates in the W.K. Kellogg Foundation’s prestigious Building Bridges Program to strengthen nonprofit management education and is a member institution of the Nonprofit Academic Center Council.
The course offerings are rooted in the fundamentals of managing and leading nonprofit organizations, thereby encouraging a deeper understanding of how government works, the tools needed to decipher administrative and policy developments, and the ability to assess the implications, threats, and opportunities of changing policy environments for their organizations.
In an age where nonprofits—from small community-based initiatives to highly professionalized agencies—increasingly interact, collaborate, and cooperate with local, state, and federal governments on issues ranging from service delivery to policy development, and are also drawn into competition with the private sector through current privatization and devolution policies, the MPA degree with a concentration in nonprofit management offers the greatest flexibility and versatility for the next generation of nonprofit leaders.
We are located on the Arlington campus, which boasts an extensive collection of nonprofit management books, journals, and resources in its library and serves as an information hub for the local nonprofit community. We provide a well-rounded educational experience and extensive peer-learning, networking, and research opportunities to our diverse student body, which comprises about one-third of all MPA students.
Students not yet ready to pursue the MPA may explore the nonprofit management or the association management certificates. Also, George Mason’s extended studies program allows students to begin taking nonprofit management classes while they assess their readiness and ability for graduate study.
Certificate in Nonprofit Management
The Department of Public and International Affairs offers a 15-credit certificate in nonprofit management. Admission requirements are the same as those of the MPA Program, and students who wish to continue their studies may apply certificate credits toward the MPA degree, pending admission to the MPA program and subject to university policies. This certificate can be completed online.
Certificate in Association Management
The Department of Public and International Affairs offers a 15-credit certificate in association management. The certificate in association management was developed in collaboration with the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) and is particularly targeted towards trade and professional associations. Admission requirements are the same as those of the MPA Program, and students who wish to continue their studies may apply certificate credits toward the MPA degree, pending admission to the MPA program and subject to university policies. This certificate can be completed online.
