MPNL - Master of Philanthropy & Nonprofit Leadership

The MPNL program at Grand Valley State University offers a dynamic and flexible learning experience, combining innovative curriculum with real-world application to develop effective, ethical leaders in philanthropy and nonprofit management. Students can collaborate with faculty on research projects, benefiting from the university's comprehensive resources, including the Johnson Collection, one of the nation's most extensive collections on the nonprofit sector. With evening, hybrid, and online courses, the program accommodates both part-time and full-time students, ensuring diverse educational needs are met. For more information, contact the graduate program director. Apply today.

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36 credit hours

36 credit hours required to complete the MPNL degree. Click here to review program of study.

2.5 years

Two and half years to complete the degree for students who have full time careers.

$28,404

Total Cost of Degree. Click here for information on tuition per credit hour and other fees. For scholarship information please visit the PNHA scholarship page. For other financial support and filing for FAFSA, please visit the GVSU Financial Support website.

Application Information

Requirements

  • a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university
  • an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (transcripts must be submitted)
  • a detailed resume
  • three letters of recommendation from informed sources
  • an essay on career and educational objectives (500-750 words) that demonstrates commitment to community and public service
  • GRE scores are NOT required but may be requested in cases where GPA is lower than a 3.0

Deadlines

  • Apply by August 1 to start in the fall semester (August - December).
  • Apply by December 1 to start in the winter semester (January - April).
  • Apply by April 1 to start in the spring/summer semesters (May - August).
  • Late applications are accepted as space allows.
  • The $30 nonrefundable application fee is waived if applied previously to GVSU

Program of Study

The MPNL degree consists of a minimum of 36 credit hours. You should visit with a faculty advisor to discuss the program of study prior to registration. (Consult Banner to identify advisor.) Return visits are encouraged, as updating the plan of study likely will be desirable as time passes. Typically, full-time students complete the program in four semesters and part-time students taking two classes per semester complete the degree in six semesters.

The MPNL program has the following components:

  • 18 credit hours of required core courses:
    • PNH 660 Philanthropy & the Nonprofit Sector
    • PNH 611 Research Methods
    • PNH 612 Human Resources in Organizations
    • PNH 614 Organization Theory
    • PNH 661 Nonprofit Management Practice
    • PNH 662 Nonprofit Resource & Financial Management
    • PNH 685 Public Service Leadership Seminar
  • 15 credit hours of electives (including a recommended 3 credits of internship for pre-career students)


Page last modified January 21, 2025