Frequently Asked Questions

What Kind of Program Is It?

Walden University's Master of Public Administration (M.P.A.) with a specialization in Nonprofit Management and Leadership is an online program designed to prepare current administrative professionals for leadership roles in both governmental and nongovernmental public service organizations. The M.P.A. with a specialization in Nonprofit Management and Leadership is offered in a course-based format with a prescribed sequence. The interdisciplinary curriculum includes the fundamentals of public administration theories, ethical leadership, and budgetary practices in the public sector. Coursework focuses on public administration from a variety of perspectives, and includes finance, economic initiatives, policy analysis, and management issues. You will examine how to build and retain a competent staff, the differences between management and leadership, and the importance of strategic planning in public organizations. Specialization coursework provides an introduction to non-profit organizations, philanthropic funding, and resource development. You also explore the key role of volunteers in the non-profit sector, with particular focus on recruiting and training board members.

What Are the Prerequisites?

The program is designed for administrative professionals. Candidates should have a bachelor's degree. Applicants may need to complete additional requirements for some programs.

What Are the Program Requirements?

Degree program curriculum and credits are subject to change, and you should contact Walden University for the most current information before enrolling in a program. To earn the Walden University Master of Public Administration with a specialization in Nonprofit Management and Leadership, you must complete 66 credit hours. The required courses are listed below.

Required Courses

• Introduction to Public Administration
• Foundations for Graduate Study
• Ethics and Social Justice
• Organizational Management and Leadership
• Finance and Budgeting for the Public Sector
• Human Resource Management: Building a Capable Workforce
• Public Sector Economics
• Strategic Planning: Collaboration, Cooperation, and Coordination
• Public Policy Analysis
• Applied Research and Evaluation Methods
• Introduction to the Nonprofit Sector
• Board Governance and Volunteer Management
• Resource Development
• Capstone Seminar

What Could I Do After I Graduate?

Career Opportunities

Graduates of Walden University's Master of Public Administration program with a specialization in Nonprofit Management and Leadership could be prepared for careers in public policy administration, management, or consulting.

Positions that graduates may seek include:

• Public policy analyst
• Program director
• Public policy administrator
• Public affairs officer
• Chief program officer
• Government relations

Advanced Degrees

In addition to seeking public sector management positions, graduates of Walden University's Master of Public Administration program with a specialization in Nonprofit Management and Leadership may choose to pursue advanced education. Earning a doctoral degree in public administration or policy may prepare you for positions in government organizations, public administration and affairs, or research. Degrees listed are not institution-specific but constitute a sampling of continuing education options for graduates. Degrees you could pursue include:

• Doctor of Nonprofit Management and Leadership
• Doctor of Philosophy in Public Affairs
• Doctor of Public Policy
• Doctor of International Affairs