Program Overview

Introduction to the Non-profit Management Program

The Non-profit Management program at Xavier University is designed to equip students with the essential skills to lead and thrive in the dynamic non-profit sector. This program is rooted in Jesuit Catholic values, preparing students to lead with purpose, commitment, and responsibility to the communities they serve.

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Arts in Non-profit Management (NPMA) program is a comprehensive undergraduate degree that provides students with a deep understanding of the non-profit sector, including its history, principles, and best practices. The program is designed to develop students' skills in strategic planning, organizational leadership, fundraising, and grant writing, as well as non-profit finance and compliance.

Major Curriculum

The NPMA major curriculum is structured to provide students with a well-rounded education in non-profit management. The program consists of 33 credit hours, which include:

• NPMA 100: Mission-Driven Service
• NPMA 200: Introduction to Non-Profit Management
• NPMA 300: Funding the Mission
• NPMA 310: Introduction to Grant Writing
• NPMA 320: Non-Profit Finance and Compliance
• NPMA 400: NPMA Internship

Sample Courses

The program offers a range of sample courses, including:

• NPMA 200: Introduction to Nonprofit Management (3 credits)
• NPMA 300: Funding the Mission (3 credits)
• NPMA 310: Introduction to Grant Writing (3 credits)
• NPMA 400: NPMA Internship (3 credits)

Outcomes

Through the NPMA program, students develop compassion for others in need and gain the knowledge and hands-on experience to support mission-driven organizations. They learn how to fundraise, write and develop grant proposals, manage finances, and apply best practices in marketing and human resources.

Program Features

The NPMA program offers several features that make it unique and attractive to students, including:

• Hands-On Experience: Students gain invaluable hands-on experience directly within local non-profit organizations and initiatives through internship opportunities and community engaged learning.
• Lead With Purpose: Rooted in Jesuit Catholic values, this program prepares students to lead with their heart—equipping them not only with skills, but with a deep sense of purpose, commitment, and responsibility to the communities they serve.
• Business Acumen: Through collaborative courses—especially in marketing and human resources—students develop essential organizational and communication skills tailored to the unique needs and values of mission-driven organizations.
• Second Major Advantage: The NPMA program's flexible curriculum makes it easy to pair students' passion for mission-driven service with another field of study—whether that's healthcare, education, social work, history, or arts and culture.

Faculty

The NPMA program is led by experienced faculty members, including Dr. Jason C. White, who serves as the founding director of the BA in Non-Profit Management and the Arts Management & Administration minor. Dr. White's teaching and research focus on identifying innovative strategies for non-profit leadership, program development, and financial sustainability—particularly for organizations led by and serving communities of color.

FAQ

The NPMA program at Xavier University is designed to equip students with the essential skills to lead and thrive in the dynamic non-profit sector. Some frequently asked questions about the program include:

• What kind of career opportunities can I pursue with an NPMA degree?
  • An NPMA degree opens doors to a wide range of fulfilling careers in the rapidly growing non-profit sector, including development director, program manager, grant writer, community engagement coordinator, volunteer manager, communications director, advocacy specialist, non-profit finance and compliance officer, and human resources manager.
• What kind of skills will I develop in this program?
  • Students develop a comprehensive skill set, including strategic planning and organizational leadership, fundraising, development and grant writing, non-profit finance and compliance, human resource management within non-profits, program design and evaluation, understanding of social diversity and welfare policy, marketing and communication for mission-driven organizations, critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and problem-solving.
• Is there an internship or hands-on experience component to the program?
  • Yes, hands-on experience is central to the NPMA program, with a robust internship requirement that provides structured pathways for students to gain real-world experience.
• Can I combine the NPMA with another major?
  • Absolutely, the NPMA's focused 33-credit hour structure makes it an ideal second major, providing unique flexibility to combine students' passion for non-profit work with disciplines like business, social sciences, arts, or humanities, enhancing their interdisciplinary learning and career versatility.