Doctor of Nonprofit Administration (DNPA) Program

The program begins with an in-person academic conference, during which students engage with their peers and faculty, become familiar with the campus, and commence their coursework. The first year of study provides a rigorous foundation in advanced nonprofit concepts and organizational theory, along with essential training in both quantitative and qualitative research methods.

In addition to the core theoretical and methodological courses, first-year students complete two skill-based courses—“Leading and Driving Change in Nonprofit Organizations” and “Philanthropy and Fundraising”—that emphasize applied leadership and resource development within the nonprofit context.

During the summer terms, students enroll in two additional courses (one in Summer I and one in Summer II). The proposed sequence of courses is detailed in the following section. In addition, students will participate in a biweekly seminar that provides foundational guidance in dissertation research and scholarly writing.

In the second year, the curriculum advances to a series of specialized, applied courses that address critical dimensions of nonprofit administration. These courses deepen students’ understanding of advanced leadership and management practices while emphasizing the importance of cultural diversity and inclusivity in organizational contexts. The coursework includes topics such as “Ethics and Legal Issues in Nonprofit Administration,” “Social Entrepreneurship and Innovation,” “Financial Management and Sustainability in Nonprofits,” “Applied Statistics,” and “Global Philanthropy and the Role of International NGOs.”

By the conclusion of the second year, students will have completed the twelve course credits required as a prerequisite for defending the dissertation proposal. During this period, and with the guidance of the program director, each student will also identify and secure a dissertation chair to support the development of their research project.

In the third year, students devote their time primarily to the development and completion of their dissertations, working closely under the supervision of their dissertation chair. The dissertation represents the culminating scholarly component of the DNPA program and must be a data-driven study that contributes to advancing knowledge and practice in the field of nonprofit administration. Projects are expected to demonstrate methodological rigor, theoretical grounding, and practical relevance, with the potential for dissemination through professional or academic channels.

To support this process, students participate in a year-long, non-credit dissertation workshop that convenes monthly. This seminar provides structured guidance on research design, data analysis, and academic writing while fostering peer exchange and scholarly collaboration. It also functions as an ongoing forum for progress review, feedback, and problem-solving, helping students navigate challenges and sustain momentum toward the successful defense of their dissertations.