Master's in Nonprofit Management and Community Engagement (M.Ed.)
One of the only programs of its kind - learn to leverage proven nonprofit management strategies alongside grassroots community engagement in Merrimack’s 100% online master's degree.
For under $20K, earn your master’s degree in a high-touch, fully online program that blends nonprofit leadership, community organizing, and digital strategy. Designed for aspiring changemakers, this program offers hands-on experience through community partnerships and a self-branded capstone project.
Nonprofit Management and Community Engagement Master's Degree at a Glance
Mode of Study
Online (Synchronous)
Est. Time
12-16 Months Full-time (Part-time Study Available)
Start Terms
Fall I & II, Spring I & II, Summer I & II
View Application Deadlines
Credits
32
Evening Courses
Weekly live sessions
Accreditation
Fellowships
Full-tuition &
Half-tuition
Scholarships
Alumni Scholarship
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Master's in Nonprofit Management and Community Engagement Tuition
Credits
Per Credit
Total Tuition Cost
Typical Tuition Costs for the Master's in Nonprofit Management and Community Engagement
Merrimack College offers generous scholarship and fellowship opportunities to offset your graduate tuition and complement your education with valuable professional experience.
Presidential Fellowships are 9-month, 25 hour-per-week on-campus placements and cover 100% of tuition.
Provost Fellowships are 9-month, 15 hour-per-week on-campus placements and cover $9,920, or 50% of tuition.
Double Warrior Alumni Scholarships are awarded to all Merrimack College alumni, covering $6,547, or 33% of tuition, for recent graduates (25% for previously graduated alumni).
Visit the page below to find all up-to-date tuition and fees information.
Overview of Merrimack's Nonprofit Management and Community Engagement Master's Degree
Nonprofit and Community Leadership
Community Engagement, Service Learning, and Institutional Partnership
Family Engagement & Youth Development
Social Movements
Why Choose the Master's in Nonprofit Management and Community Engagement at Merrimack?
REAL WORLD, HANDS-ON LEARNING
Even in a fully online format, every course is designed to connect theory with practice through community interviews, volunteer work, digital campaign projects, and a self-designed capstone that showcases your specialized subject-matter knowledge.
PRACTICAL, RELEVANT SKILLS
Our master’s in nonprofit management and community engagement equips you with marketable expertise that employers value. You’ll develop proficiencies in writing, research, public presentation and program evaluation, along with the ability to collaborate, persuade, inspire and lead.
FLEXIBLE AND ACCESSIBLE FOR WORKING PROFESSIONALS
Take synchronous evening classes in a virtual learning environment alongside your classmates, with live weekly sessions, and complete your degree in as little as 12 to 16 months. This program is designed to fit your schedule without needing to put your career on pause. Whether you choose to study as a full- or part-time student, you’ll benefit from the same innovative curriculum, top-notch faculty, and close-knit sense of community. Not ready for a full degree program? Get started with our online Certificate in Community-Based Nonprofit Leadership.
STRONG NONPROFIT AND COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS
Merrimack serves as a dynamic hub for civic activity, offering direct access to partner organizations and credentialing bodies across Greater Boston, such as Mass Nonprofit Network and SquashBusters, providing the opportunity to gain valuable experience and professional connections while contributing to meaningful causes. Additionally, our extensive network of accomplished alumni and expert faculty provide students with vital connections, mentorship, and professional opportunities within the community engagement field.
EXCEPTIONAL FACULTY
The program is led by nationally recognized researchers and practitioners in nonprofit leadership and community engagement. You’ll work in a small, online class setting that guarantees extensive faculty face-time and one-on-one support, learning from accomplished scholars and community engagement specialists.
SCHOLARSHIPS AND FELLOWSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
In addition to a tuition of under $20,000, Merrimack offers substantial financial support through on-campus fellowships and alumni scholarships, making your graduate education more affordable while providing career-boosting experience.
Career Outlook: Where Can a Nonprofit Management and Community Engagement Master's Degree Take You?
Median Annual Salary
For Social and Community Service Managers in 2024.
Employment Growth
Between 2023 and 2033 for Social and Community Service Managers, faster than average.
Jobs Available
For Social and Community Service Managers in the United States.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 2024
Jobs with a Nonprofit Management & Community Engagement Master's Degree
Upon completing our program, you’ll be well-equipped to pursue positions such as:
- Program Director
- Youth Program Coordinator
- Community Engagement Manager
- Policy Analyst
- Community Outreach Coordinator
- Grants Manager
- Social Policy Advocate
- Nonprofit Executive Director
Where Merrimack's Master'sin Nonprofit Management and Community Engagement Graduates Work
Nearly 100 percent of our nonprofit management and community engagement graduate students find jobs within a year of completing the master’s degree, working in areas that include nonprofit leadership, service learning, government service, community organizing, policy analysis, academic research and digital community media strategy.
Space2Thrive
Founder, President
MassHousing
Business Development Analyst
Downers Grove Township
Life Skills Teacher
Notre Dame Education Center
ESL for Health Careers Instructor
Nelson Mandela University
Manager: Community Liaison and Marketing
Toledo Public Schools
Special Education Parent Liaison
What Our Master's in Nonprofit Management and Community Engagement Students and Alumni Say
Greater Commonwealth Virtual School
Nelson Mandela University
Read Campus news story
Space2Thrive
Listen to Podcast
Toledo Public Schools, Ohio
What You'll Learn in Merrimack's Nonprofit Management and Community Engagement Master's Degree
Key Courses You'll Take
Community Engagement Theory and Practice
CME 5100
This course examines the contemporary community engagement movement, including civic and community engagement, service learning, community-based research in K–12 and higher education, and community-based education and learning. It explores key pragmatic issues such as planning and implementing community partnerships, developing service learning courses, and identifying outcomes for students and sites, as well as core theoretical issues such as community capacity building, reciprocity, sustainability, and ethical engagement.
Nonprofit Management and Leadership
CME 6200
This course provides an overview of leadership and management issues pertinent to the nonprofit sector. Topics include human resource development, program development, financial resource management, and organizational learning. The course also focuses on leader qualities and career paths in the nonprofit sector.
Capstone Project
CME 6850
Master's in Nonprofit Management and Community Engagement Curriculum
View Full Curriculum from the Graduate Catalog
NonProfit Management and Community Engagement Requirements
To see more details about the program, please visit catalog.merrimack.edu.Skills You'll Learn
Merrimack’s Master’s in Nonprofit Management and Community Engagement equips you with the tools to lead, collaborate, and drive social change. Through hands-on projects and community-based learning, you’ll build a versatile skill set that prepares you for roles in nonprofit organizations, advocacy groups, education, and beyond.
Nonprofit Leadership and Management
Develop strategies for leading mission-driven organizations, managing teams, and overseeing programs with a focus on social responsibility.
Community Needs Assessment
Learn how to map community assets, conduct interviews, and design initiatives that respond to real needs.
Grassroots Organizing and Volunteer Engagement
Build skills to bring people into the work of your organization, lead outreach efforts, and create meaningful opportunities for engagement.
Grant Writing and Development
Learn how to research funding opportunities, craft compelling grant proposals, and build sustainable fundraising strategies to support nonprofit initiatives.
Program Design and Evaluation
Gain skills in planning, implementing, and measuring the success of community and nonprofit initiatives.
Advocacy and Social Change Strategy
Understand the systems that impact communities and develop actionable approaches to promote justice.
Merrimack's Industry Credentials and Partnerships
More information about Merrimack’s industry partnerships for the Nonprofit Management and Community Engagement master’s degree is coming soon.
Certified Nonprofit Professional (CNP) Credential
Gain a nationally recognized credential that signals your readiness to lead in the nonprofit sector. Merrimack is a proud campus partner with the Nonprofit Leadership Alliance (NLA), offering students the opportunity to earn the Certified Nonprofit Professional (CNP) designation–a respected certification that demonstrates mastery in nonprofit management, leadership, resource development, and more.
Benefits for students include:
One-time discounted enrollment fee of $100
Access to exclusive online community, career resources, and study materials
The certificate is embedded within Merrimack’s 8-week CME 6200: Nonprofit Management and Leadership course, which is part of the M.Ed. in Nonprofit Management and Community Engagement curriculum.
Hands-on experience is a key component of the certificate:
- Students without prior nonprofit experience will receive personalized support to secure internships or relevant work experience, in collaboration with the O’Brien Center for Career Development.
- Students seeking volunteer opportunities will be connected with local organizations through the Stevens Service Learning Center.
This partnership ensures that our students not only build their knowledge but also graduate with tangible, real-world experience and a highly regarded credential.
Merrimack College is the only CNP partner campus in the Northeast, adding unique value and distinction to your degree.
Nonprofit Academic Centers Council (NACC) Honor Society
Merrimack’s partnership with the Nonprofit Academic Centers Council (NACC) provides students with access to an international network of accredited nonprofit education programs.
Eligible students can join the nonprofit honor society, recognizing academic achievement and commitment to public service
Membership adds credibility and visibility in the nonprofit field
Builds professional identity through affiliation with an esteemed academic organization
Featured Faculty
Audrey Falk, Ph.D.
Program Director and Professor, Nonprofit Management and Community Engagement
Dr. Audrey Falk is the Program Director and Professor of Nonprofit Management and Community Engagement at Merrimack College. Her research focuses on community engagement, global access, equity, and social change, with expertise in service learning and nonprofit leadership. Dr. Falk holds advanced degrees from Boston University and Harvard University. Earlier in her career, Dr. Falk served as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Romania and she worked in the nonprofit sector in Massachusetts. Her postdoctoral research fellowships at the University of Maryland, College Park, and at the American Institutes for Research focused on early childhood education, family engagement, and teacher professional development. Dr. Falk recently completed the Advanced Leadership Fellowship Program in Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Related Disabilities (LEND) at UMass Chan Medical School.
Melissa Nemon, Ph.D.
Adjunct Professor
Dr. Melissa Nemon is an Adjunct Professor in the School of Education & Social Policy at Merrimack College. She is the founder of a woman-owned community-based research and services firm and has worked extensively with local communities, government agencies, nonprofits, and businesses. Her research focuses on community and social programs, community organizing, participatory research, social justice, and program evaluation. Teaching at the college level since 2008, Dr. Nemon has published multiple academic papers, presented at national conferences, and facilitates community workshops across the country. She holds a Ph.D. and M.A. in Community Economic Development from Southern New Hampshire University, an M.A. in Community Social Psychology from UMass Lowell, and a B.A. in Psychology from the University of New Hampshire.
Gerardo Gauthier-Zayas Jr., Ed.D.
Adjunct Lecturer
Dr. Gerardo Gauthier-Zayas is an Adjunct Professor in the School of Education and Social Policy at Merrimack College. He teaches courses in community engagement, nonprofit leadership, diversity and social justice, and grant writing in both the Bachelor Completion and Master’s in Community Engagement programs. In addition to his teaching, Dr. Gauthier-Zayas is the founder and president of Avant Consulting and Training LLC, where he specializes in leadership coaching, DEI strategy, and organizational development. His work focuses on advancing systemic equity and fostering community-driven change through strategic planning and professional development. Dr. Gauthier-Zayas holds an Ed.D. in Higher Education Administration from New England College and an MBA in Healthcare Administration from Plymouth State University. He regularly presents at conferences and facilitates leadership and DEI-focused workshops for organizations across the region.
Linda Meccouri, Ph.D.
Adjunct Lecturer
Dr. Linda Meccouri is an Adjunct Professor in Merrimack College’s School of Education and Social Policy, where she teaches strengths-based theory and practice, adult learning, and community engagement. She is also the principal consultant at Positive Connections, Positive Strategy, specializing in organizational development, leadership training, and resilience-building. Her research focuses on educational persistence among low-income, first-generation students, and she has published work on appreciative inquiry and organizational transformation. Dr. Meccouri holds a Ph.D. in Instructional Technology, Adult Learning, and Cultural Studies from the University of New Mexico and an M.Ed. in Organizational Development from Antioch University New England. She is a two-time recipient of Endowed Chairs for Teaching Excellence and is recognized nationally for her dynamic facilitation and commitment to positive organizational change.
Fellowships, Scholarships, and Financial Aid
Nonprofit Management and Community Engagement Graduate Fellowships
Merrimack’s Master’s in Nonprofit Management and Community Engagement provides on campus graduate fellowship opportunities that enhance your professional experience while significantly reducing tuition. Fellows benefit from real-world work opportunities, professional networking, and a career head start in the field.
- Presidential Fellowships: Cover 100% of your graduate tuition and include a 9-month, unpaid fellowship placement of 25 hours per week.
- Provost Fellowships: Cover 50% of your graduate tuition and include a 9-month, unpaid fellowship placement of 15 hours per week.
These fellowships allow students to gain practical skills and build valuable connections, making them an ideal choice for those seeking an impactful start to their careers.
Please note that we currently do not offer remote fellowship positions for our Master’s in Nonprofit Management and Community Engagement.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
Merrimack College offers the Double Warrior scholarship for College alumni who are not receiving a full- or half-tuition fellowship. Students enrolling immediately after senior undergraduate year automatically receive a 33% discount and 25% thereafter. Please note that Double Warrior alumni scholarships cannot be combined with Dean Scholarships.
Graduate students can also receive financial aid in the form of federal aid, private loans, and payment plans. Click the link below to learn more about our scholarships and financial aid opportunities.
Application Information for the Master's in Nonprofit Management and Community Engagement
It’s easy to apply online! Simply create your account by registering a username and password. This will allow you to start an application, save and log back in at any time to complete it before submission.
A Completed Application Includes:
Important Information:
- Online application
- Official college transcripts from all institutions attended
- Resumé
- Interview OR personal statement
- Contact information for one reference OR one letter of recommendation
- No application fee or GRE requirement.
- If applying for a fellowship, be sure to indicate that on your application.
- Optional: Submit test scores to enhance or support your academic background.
Graduate Community and Student Support
Discover Merrimack’s vibrant and supportive graduate community! Our Graduate Center, located on the second floor of the McQuade Library, is our hub for student life, resources, and support, ensuring that you get the most out of your graduate experience.
Enjoy the following benefits that are exclusive to graduate students:
A comfortable lounge for studying and socializing
A home base for daily life on campus with coffee and tea, a microwave and a fridge
A venue for programs and services supporting graduate student success
A warm, inviting place to connect with staff and other graduate students
Want to Learn More about the Master's in Nonprofit Management and Community Engagement?
Contact the Program Director, Dr. Audrey Falk!
Take the Next Step (We're Here to Help)
At Merrimack, we are ready to meet you where you are and get you where you want to go. And, we make the process simple along the way! Please feel free to contact our Graduate Admission team or join us at an upcoming event if you have any questions regarding scholarships, fellowships, financial aid, or the application process.
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Grad Chat Podcast
In this episode of Grad Chat, Helena Liedtke, a graduate of the Nonprofit Management and Community Engagement master’s program, joins us to share her personal experience through the program and her fellowship involvement. Don’t pass up this chance to learn more about Merrimack’s graduate programs!
Check us out on social media!
What's New at Merrimack
Merrimack College Awards & Recognition
U.S. News & World Report | Best Regional Universities North (2024)
- Most Innovative Schools (#5)
- Regional Universities North (#39)
- Best Undergraduate Teaching (#19)
- Best Colleges for Veterans (#15)
- Best Value Schools (#51)
