Master of Science in Nonprofit Leadership & Management Admission Requirements

What does the admissions team look for in applicants?

The USD MSNP admissions team looks for applicants with three or more years in the workforce, preferably in a management-level nonprofit role. Professional or volunteer experience in the sector strengthens an application, as does clear potential to lead and think critically alongside solid interpersonal and writing skills. Applicants who want to gauge their fit can discuss their qualifications with the admissions team or program director.

Who should write my recommendation letters?

Applicants are asked to submit one letter of support from a current supervisor. If you are unable to obtain a letter of support from your current supervisor, you are required to submit two letters of support from a previous employer, board member, and/or previous professor who can comment on your experience and potential for graduate studies.

Do you provide job placement services?

The MSNP program does not offer formal job placement services, but it supports career growth in other ways. Among on-campus students, 91% report a raise, new job or promotion as a direct result of the program. An active alumni network often hires fellow graduates, and an informal job board shared across current students, alumni and advisory board members points many graduates toward new roles.

Does the MSNP program admit international students?

Yes, the MSNP program admits international students provided they meet the additional requirements for admission, including a TOEFL exam score of 4.5 or higher and course-by-course transcript evaluation and report by an approved agency. If you are currently in the U.S. on an F-1 or M-1 student visa, you are not eligible to pursue the online section of our program, per U.S. immigration regulations. International students who are currently in the United States on an F-1 student visa may be able to transfer the F-1 record to the University of San Diego. Please contact an enrollment advisor if you think this situation applies to you.

TOEFL: Minimum score is 4.5 for all tests taken after January 21, 2026, and the minimum score for tests taken prior to that date is 83. Some programs may have a higher standard for admission – please check with your enrollment advisor.

Do I need to complete International and Exit Requirements?

At the School of Leadership and Education Sciences (SOLES), the USD school that houses the MSNP program, all master’s and doctoral students participate in an international experience designed to support the growth of cultural competency. The goal is to inform best practices in working with culturally diverse populations locally, nationally and globally. International experiences are approved by each student’s faculty advisor and can be credit-based or non-credit-based activities. For this online program, your international experience and exit requirement objectives will be met by completing your capstone course, a final applied project for the degree.

What are the benefits of the priority application deadline?

Applying to our program by the priority deadline offers you significant advantages:

• Early Consideration: Be among the first to have your application reviewed and receive your admission decision sooner, giving you more time to prepare for your next academic journey.
• Increased Admission Chances: Secure your spot in the program while more seats are available, enhancing your chances of acceptance.
• Stress-Free Planning: Eliminate the last-minute rush by submitting your application early, allowing you to focus on the next steps.
• Showcase Your Commitment: Demonstrate your dedication and preparedness by applying early, making a strong impression on our admissions committee.

Don’t wait! Find the deadline at the top of the Program Overview page.

Is the GRE required to apply to the MSNP program?

The MSNP program does not require the GRE or GMAT for domestic applicants. Admission is based on your bachelor’s degree and GPA, statement of purpose, resume and letter of support rather than standardized test scores. This is common among applied master’s programs built for working professionals, where professional experience often carries more weight than test performance.

What GPA do I need to apply to the MSNP program?

Applicants need an official transcript showing a completed bachelor’s degree with a GPA of at least 2.75 on a 4.0 scale. Candidates whose GPA falls below that threshold are encouraged to speak with the admissions team, since professional experience and other strengths are weighed as part of a holistic review.

How long does the MSNP application take to complete?

The MSNP application itself is short, but gathering the supporting materials takes the most time. You will need official transcripts, a 500-word statement of purpose, a resume or CV and one letter of support from a current supervisor. Requesting transcripts and the recommendation letter early keeps the process moving, since those depend on other people’s timelines.