Nonprofit/NGO Leadership, MSNPL

The Nonprofit/NGO Leadership (NPL) Program at the School of Social Policy and Practice welcomes individuals who are bright, passionate, and energized to be transformative thought leaders, social entrepreneurs, and innovators for social impact. The world needs innovative approaches to address the world’s complex social challenges.  Our students are the next generation of leaders and entrepreneurs who will help transform nonprofits, social enterprises, international NGOs, educational systems, social service agencies, art and cultural institutions, foundations, and advocacy and volunteer organizations. Our program allows students to build a foundation for their professional and civic journeys as collaborative agents of innovation and impact.

Curriculum

Core Courses
Select 4 of the following:4.0
Penn Social Impact Lab
Empowering Nonprofit Leaders to Thrive
Ethics and The Pursuit of Social impact
Introduction to Data Analysis for Social Impact
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): Partnerships and Practices
Nonprofit Law
Understanding and Managing Volunteers for Impact
The Nonprofit Sector: Concepts and Theories
Strategic Management and Leadership of Nonprofits
Leadership Theory and Practice
Social Finance
Social Entrepreneurship
Fundraising and Philanthropy: The Donor Journey
Philanthropy and Fundraising Tools: A Survey Course
Electives
Select 4 NPLD Electives4.0
NPLD 5000-9999
Select 2 additional Electives 12.0
Any course 5000-9999
Total Course Units10
1

Students may select to take an additional 2 NPLD electives or complete 2 graduate level course electives at another school at Penn.


The degree and major requirements displayed are intended as a guide for students entering in the Fall of 2025 and later. Students should consult with their academic program regarding final certifications and requirements for graduation.


Sample Plan of Study

The Master of Science in Nonprofit/NGO Leadership program is available as an on-campus full-time or part-time program and as a fully online full-time or part-time program.  Students may combine on-campus and online study.  While students may customize their schedules due to participation in a dual degree or certificate program, enrollment in an international course or study abroad experience, the grid below outlines the standard schedule and course of study for full-time students.

Plan of Study Grid
First Year
FallCourse Units
Select 2 NPLD Core Courses 2.0
Select 2 NPLD Electives 2.0
Select one additional elective 1.0
 Course Units5.00
Spring
Select 2 NPLD Core Courses 2.0
Select 2 NPLD Electives 2.0
Select 1 additional elective 1.0
 Course Units5.00
 Total Course Units10.00