Curriculum as of Fall 2013

The Master of Nonprofit Leadership was the first graduate degree in the country developed specifically for those who lead, or aspire to lead, nonprofit organizations. Today, the curriculum emphasizes the latest in leadership and management theory and the practical skills and dexterity required of nonprofit leaders. Students work with a distinguished mix of Seattle University faculty and practitioner instructors, learn with a cohort of peers, and build their networks among nonprofit and grantmaking leaders in the region.

This 45-credit degree combines 33 credits of core coursework completed with a cohort, and 12 credits of electives. The program can be completed in 18 to 24 months. 

Designed for working professionals, the program schedules courses in the evenings or on Saturdays. Students are provided with class schedules in advance to facilitate planning.

Course work is dynamic, and builds on the diverse professional experiences that students bring with them to the classroom. Students participate in a 3-credit practicum, which places them in local nonprofit organizations and allows them to immediately apply their classroom learning to real world situations. Applicants with extensive leadership and managerial experience may petition to replace the practicum with an elective course.

The program culminates in the Summary Project, a synthesis of focused academic study and the results of the community practicum experience.

Personal mentoring is also provided by professionals currently working in the field. Graduates have access to career counseling services and are invited to continue their association with the network of over 330 alumni.