World-Class Excellence in a Close-Knit Community
World-Class Excellence in a Close-Knit Community

Nonprofit Leadership at Bradley University

You have a passion for service. A drive to create lasting change in peoples’ lives—through education, healthcare, government, the arts, trade associations, libraries, religious organizations, environmental protection, philanthropy—the list goes on, as the needs and opportunities are tremendous.

To become a true authority in the complex arena of nonprofit leadership, you need the modern-day leadership acumen and communication skills that will help you turn your organization’s goals into reality. Bradley University’s leading online Master of Arts and Graduate Certificate programs in Nonprofit Leadership prepare you to become a strategic, effective leader, equipped to advance the mission of organizations throughout the nonprofit sector.

In 2024, the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that nonprofit organizations in this country account for 12.8 million jobs, or 9.9% of private-sector employment.1 According to the Washington Post, "Over the past 15 years, nonprofit employment has grown 33 percent. ... Nonprofits have passed local government to become the second-largest source of employment in the country."2 If you intend to be part of that expanding landscape, get ready now.

Encouraging Those Who Serve Our Communities

Full-time employees of nonprofit organizations save 30% on tuition for the online graduate programs in Nonprofit Leadership.

Because the master’s program is designed specifically for working professionals, students earning the MA in Nonprofit Leadership can complete the program while working full-time, taking three courses each term.

Choose Your Path to Leadership Expertise

Master of Arts in Nonprofit Leadership

Prepare to lead, build, and expand nonprofit organizations, including community and social service agencies, colleges and universities, healthcare facilities, faith-based organizations, charities and philanthropic foundations. Designed to flex around the full-time work schedules of nonprofit professionals, this 36-credit, 100% online master’s program is taught by subject matter experts with decades of nonprofit leadership experience at the national, state, and local levels.
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Graduate Certificate – Nonprofit Leadership

Choose your curriculum and develop specialized proficiency in topics that spark your interest and complete your skill set. Based on real-world experience, this 12-credit, fully online certificate program is taught by the faculty experts who lead the online master’s degree courses. All credits are transferable, so you’ll be well ahead if you choose to earn the M.A. in Nonprofit Leadership online.

Explore the Curriculum
“When I graduate, I will have developed a strong sense of the world around me and the power within me to make a difference.”
—Toni C., M.A. in NPL ‘25 candidate
“When I graduate, I will have developed a strong sense of the world around me and the power within me to make a difference.”
—Toni C., M.A. in NPL ‘25 candidate

Bradley Graduates Lead the Way

Join the Bradley alumni who are catalysts for change in Chicago, Madison, Minneapolis, Nashville, and beyond.

Chief Executive Officer

Community Foundation of Central Illinois

Director of Youth Services

Children's Home Association of Illinois

Director of Development

Special Olympics Wisconsin

Past President

Central Illinois Chapter: Association of Fundraising Professionals

Become the expert who creates lasting social impact.

You’re committed to making a difference. It’s time to advance into the senior positions that drive real change. Gain the leadership expertise you need through Bradley University’s online graduate programs in Nonprofit Leadership. Learn from award-winning authorities—in a supportive environment, on a flexible schedule that fits into your life.

Complete the form to get information on the program structure, curriculum, benefits, and application requirements.

Discover Your Next Step

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Bradley University is authorized to deliver online programs to US citizens and permanent residents residing in the United States. International students are encouraged to inquire about on-campus opportunities by visiting Bradley University International Admissions.

The Bradley Advantages

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Innovative Solutions to Modern Challenges

Become a forward-thinking leader and an authority on grant writing, institutional planning, fundraising, and digital media.

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Faculty Mentorship for World-Class Leadership

Enjoy small classes and individualized support through a select program that empowers your career.

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Connections That Make a Real Difference

Bradley alumni turn inspiration into action. Move your agenda forward with our network behind you.

Excellence on a Flexible Schedule

Award-Winning, Top-Tier Leadership

Bradley faculty have led at The United Way, Goodwill, the Joint Commission on Racial Justice and Equity, and the Illinois Nature Conservancy.

Meet the Faculty

Support for Your Current and Future Success

The convenience and flexibility of these 100% online programs enable you to balance your education with full-time employment and personal commitments.

Explore the Programs

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Bradley University accredited?

Yes. Bradley University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

Can I apply if my GPA is lower than 3.0?

A 3.0 GPA is typically required, but students with a GPA of 2.5-2.9 may be admitted on a conditional basis.

Can I transfer credits from a different graduate program?

Bradley University Admission Advisors will be happy to answer your questions about credit transfers.

Will my degree indicate that I completed coursework online?

No, the expectations of graduates from this program are no different than any other graduate from Bradley University. The only difference is in the method of program delivery.

Is the GRE or any other examination required?

No. Neither the GRE nor other test scores are required.

Can I take the courses out of sequence or start at a later date?

These programs are designed to allow maximum flexibility, so the course sequence is flexible although each program has a set capstone experience.

How are the courses delivered?

All courses are delivered entirely online through Canvas.

Do I qualify for financial aid?

Students who want to apply for financial aid should complete and submit the FAFSA as early as possible. The financial aid office at Bradley University will work with students to determine options for funding university coursework based on FAFSA results. Bradley’s FAFSA code is 001641. Learn more on the tuition and financial aid page.

Admissions Dates and Deadlines

Summer 2025

Apr
15
Final Application Deadline
April 15, 2025
Summer 2025
May
21
Start Date
May 21, 2025
Summer 2025

Fall 2025

Jul
20
Final Application Date
July 20, 2025
Fall 2025
Aug
27
Start Date
August 27, 2025
Fall 2025
Sources

Bradley University has engaged Everspring, a leading provider of education and technology services, to support select aspects of program delivery.