MS in Management: Nonprofit Management Concentration

Graduate

Two women seated at a desk reviewing a paper

Nonprofit leadership starts here

Turn your passion into purpose-driven leadership with a concentration in Nonprofit Management. Build practical skills in finance, economics, marketing, and ethical, inclusive leadership — all tailored to mission-driven work. You’ll graduate ready to guide organizations, sustain funding, and deepen community impact.

Prepare for the challenge and possibility of nonprofit management

The Simmons Master of Science in Management (MSM) with a concentration in Nonprofit Management helps you develop the skills to:

  • Lead with purpose in mission-driven organizations
  • Build and manage nonprofit budgets from planning through execution
  • Connect resources to strategy so programs deliver lasting results
  • Strengthen organizational systems, culture, and performance
  • Engage donors, boards, and community stakeholders with credibility

Expand your reach and your leadership options

This master’s concentration opens doors to:

  • Senior nonprofit roles in program leadership and executive management
  • Fundraising and development positions that shape organizational growth
  • High-impact program and operations oversight
  • Nonprofit entrepreneurship and organizational expansion
  • Policy and funding influence within institutions and communities
  • Careers in grants, community engagement, and nonprofit consulting

All MSM students complete 34 credits, including a 9 credit core.

Core Courses (9 credits)

MSMG407 Accounting and Finance for Managers 3
MSMG411 Economic Analysis for Managers 3
MSMG442 Project Management 3

Electives (25 Credits)

MSM students complete 25 elective credits chosen from approved program offerings, including the following courses:

MSMG425 Marketing Management 3
MSMG440 Creativity Innovation & Entrepreneurship 3
MSMG450 Digital Marketing Innovation 3
MSMG470 Negotiations, Power and Decision Making In Organizations 3
MSMG522 Business, Government, and the Global Economy 3

Students in the Master of Science in Management (MSM) program may choose to focus their studies by pursuing a degree concentration aligned with their professional interests and career goals. Concentrations are designed to prepare students for leadership roles in specific industries through specialized coursework. Students who choose to concentrate their studies must complete the core courses required of all MSM students as well as a sequence of courses required to earn the degree concentration.

Nonprofit Management Concentration

MSM students pursuing this concentration will complete 25 credits of coursework that combines business foundations with advanced nonprofit strategy and leadership.

Required Courses (12 credits)

MSMG430 Leading and Managing an Effective Non-Profit Organization 3
MSMG431 Financial & Accounting for Non-Profit 3
MSMG432 Philanthropy and Fundraising in the Nonprofit Sector 3
MSMG522 Business, Government, and the Global Economy 3

Electives (13 credits)

Students complete 13 elective credits chosen from approved program offerings, including the following courses:

MSMG425 Marketing Management 3
MSMG440 Creativity Innovation & Entrepreneurship 3
MSMG450 Digital Marketing Innovation 3
MSMG470 Negotiations, Power and Decision Making In Organizations 3

Business and Leadership in Women’s Sports Concentration

MSM students pursuing this concentration complete the following foundational course as well as 22 elective credits chosen from approved program offerings:

MSMG460 Foundations of Women's Sports Management 3

The Simmons Advantage


A seal for the Carnegie Foundation Elective Classification for Leadership for Public Purpose 2024-2030

Simmons University is one of 25 U.S. colleges and universities – and the only women-centered college – to receive the first Carnegie Leadership for Public Purpose Classification. This elective designation is awarded by the American Council on Education (ACE), the Doerr Institute for New Leaders at Rice University, and the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching.

Learn more

What can you do with a concentration in nonprofit management?

At Simmons, you’ll gain more than a degree. You’ll join a dynamic Boston-based network of nonprofit leaders, alumni, and community partners. Our connections lead to internships, mentorships, and real-world experiences that can launch you into leadership positions.

Potential job titles 

  • Program Director
  • Director of Development
  • Social & Community Service Manager
  • Nonprofit Operations Manager
  • Nonprofit Financial Manager
  • Volunteer Services Manager
  • Information Services Manager 

Have questions about the MSM program? 

  • Christina Ramey, Director of Graduate Programs, is here to help.
  • Get clear, personalized answers about admissions, the curriculum, and how Simmons can support your goals.

Professor Erin DeCurtis

The nonprofit sector is the third largest industry in the United States, and the largest industry in Boston. Our Nonprofit Management program supports these vital organizations and the communities they serve by teaching students about the unique dynamics of how nonprofits are led, funded and managed.

Erin DeCurtis, Ed.D., Diane K. Trust Professorship in Leadership Development


Upcoming Information Sessions

Management Student sitting at computer

School of Management Info Session

  • Oct 1, 2026
  • 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm
  • Virtual
Two students working together on laptops in library

School of Management Info Session

  • Nov 12, 2026
  • 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm
  • Virtual
Student working on laptop

School of Management Info Session

  • Dec 10, 2026
  • 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm
  • Virtual