Questions Frequently Asked by Prospective Master's Students

How long does it take to complete the program?  

• The program is a 36 unit program that can be completed in two academic years (including a summer session that bridges the first and second academic year). Students who study “full time” take approximately 7-8 units per semester, a required 1-unit course during winter term, and a required to take two 3-unit summer courses (please see the course schedule for course offerings and layout of the class schedule).

• Students can also elect to undertake their studies on a part time basis; if they do so, they can complete the degree in either 3 or 4 years depending on the pace they set for themselves.

Can I work full time and complete the program on schedule?  

• Yes, the majority of our students work full time and complete the degree in two years.  

When are classes held?

•  Most of our classes take place from 6-9 PM during weekday evenings. A small number are held on weekend days. Please refer to the course schedule on this website for more detailed information.  

What types of people are enrolled in the program?

•  Our students are a very diverse group of professionals, the vast majority of whom work in mid-to-senior-level management positions at nonprofit corporations (a few work in the public and private sectors). They reflect the racial, ethnic and religious diversity of San Diego, and work for nonprofits across the spectrum of fields ranging from human services to the environment, health care to arts, philanthropies, and everything in between. Approximately 1/3 of our students are in their twenties, 1/3 are in their thirties and 1/3 are over forty. A few of our students already have advanced degrees.  

What qualities are you looking for in applicants?

•  We are looking for people who are already or have the potential to be leaders in the nonprofit community, people with critical thinking skills, good interpersonal skills and strong writing skills. We have a strong preference for people who have been in the workforce for 4 years or longer.  

How many people do you accept per year?

• Ours is a selective program. We admit approximately 28 master’s students per year so that we can provide each one with a personalized learning experience.  

What are the GPA requirements?

• We require applicants to have a GPA of at least 3.0 (out of 4.0). On rare occasions, we admit individuals whose GPA fall below 3.0 when they are able to make a strong case in their application about their leadership ability.  

Do you require the GRE or GMAT?

•  No, we do not. We do, however, strongly suggest that an applicant who has a weak GPA take one of these exams in order to present a competitive application.  

What is the cost of the program?

• The cost of the program depends upon whether the student is employed by a 501 (c) (3) corporation or not. If the student is employed in the private sector, public sector, or a nonprofit that is not classified as a (c)(3) by the IRS, then the tuition reflects that of USD's graduate tuition cost .

• Students who are employed by 501 (c)(3) corporations or, who act as employees for (c) (3)’s, (for instance, someone serving as an unpaid executive director), receive both reduced tuition and scholarship funds. Students must work at least 20 hours per week for the nonprofit organization. The discounted tuition rate is $500 per unit, and each receives a $5,000 scholarship. These combined benefits bring the total cost of degree to $13,000.

Who should write my recommendation letters?

• We like to see letters from people with whom you have a professional relationship – your immediate supervisor, a board member with whom your work closely, perhaps someone you supervise, or a colleague you collaborate with at a related organization.

Do you help your students identify additional scholarship funds?

• Please refer to the Financial Aid page on this website. 

Do you provide job placement services?

•  No, we don’t, but many of our students get raises, new jobs and promotions as a direct result of their participation in our program. We provide an informal job announcement distribution network that, combined with the networks of our existing students, alumni and advisory board, help many of our students land new jobs in the sector.

How can I find out more about the program?

• For more information, please contact Laura Stein, Assistant Director, Institute for Nonprofit Education and Research at lbstein@sandiego.edu or (619) 260-7442. You may also contact Pat Libby, Co-Director, Institute for Nonprofit Education and Research at plibby@sandiego.edu or (619) 282-8875.
  
• We also sponsor many community events throughout the year including an open house for prospective students where attendees have the opportunity to chat with our enrolled students and faculty. Please check the EVENTS page on this website for more information on this and other events.