The Maxine Goodman Levin School of Urban Affairs at Cleveland State University is consistently recognized as one of the best public affairs colleges in the nation according to US News & World Report. 

The Master of Nonprofit Management (MNM) program enables students to develop management skills and deepen their understanding of nonprofit administration in order to improve their employment opportunities and advance the organizations they serve. This degree draws on the strengths of leading scholars and practitioners with expertise in volunteerism, philanthropy, human resources, and community engagement.

The MNAL coursework provides foundation in core management functions and competencies required to lead nonprofit organizations, with curriculum in the following areas:

• Nonprofit leadership, applied management, and organizational behavior
• Fundraising, revenue generation, and philanthropy
• Human resource and volunteer management
• Program development and evaluation
• Financial management and public sector economics
• Proposal writing
• Managing urban diversity
• Public administration and policy

The MNM program is comprised of 39-43 credit hours, including core courses, electives, and a capstone. Learn more about this program. »

Our mentoring program and internships enhance professional development, augment the student experience, and help advance careers.

Careers in Nonprofit Management

Nonprofit management, administration, and leadership is a rapidly growing career field in high demand. Across the US, 12.3 million people work for nonprofit organizations. Studies by organizations such as the Annie E. Casey Foundation and Bridgespan project that the demand for senior managers in the nonprofit sector will quadruple over the next two decades.

The Northeast Ohio area has one of the highest concentrations of nonprofit organizations nationally with more than 6,000 nonprofits in Cuyahoga County. Graduates of the MNAL program are well-prepared for leadership roles and successful careers in areas such as:

• Community development
• Healthcare administration
• Museums and arts organizations
• Foundations and philanthropy
• Social services and civic engagement
• Environmental advocacy and sustainability
• Public parks and recreation systems
• Education

Streamlined Application Process and Courses that Fit Your Schedule

The Maxine Goodman Levin School of Urban Affairs’ graduate programs are designed to accommodate part-time, mid-career students, as well as full-time students. Courses are offered primarily during the evenings. Full-time students can complete their graduate degree in two academic years.

Graduate Assistantships and Scholarships

The School offers graduate assistantship opportunities and over thirty dedicated scholarships for Maxine Goodman Levin School of Urban Affairs students. Graduate assistantships are competitive, providing a stipend and potential tuition support to qualified students.