To Grad School or Not to Grad School?

A FLiP reader just emailed me a question… one I get all the time… but I don’t have the answer. So, FLiP community, I need your help. If you have an opinion - and I know you do - please leave a comment at the bottom of this post (on the flip site: http://flip.onphilanthropy.com).

Here’s the situation: A 23-year old fundraiser has been working at a nonprofit for a year and a half, and is thinking about what his next step should be. Of course, one of the things this FLiP is thinking about is grad school, but he doesn’t know if there is any real benefit. Do nonprofits care about that degree? Is it more worthwhile to spend the money and time to get an MBA? Should he save his money and just focus on getting the right jobs?

So, FLiP community, here is the crux of the question: How important is grad school in the philanthropic sector?

What are you planning on doing? What did you do? And what would you do differently?

Taking an informal survey it seems like *a lot* of people would like to know the consensus of this community. Let’s get to work!

Comments

[Sam Davidson]

It depends on where he dreams of going.

If he'd like to be the CEO of a major nonprofit, then get the MBA now when you're used to going to school. It will pay for itself in the end. Likewise, more and more MBA programs focus on multiple bottom lines.

But, if he wants to be a hands-on program manager in a service-based nonprofit, then he should get the right jobs. Similarly, as grants get more competitive and funds get tighter in a given community, he'll just need a great set of contacts and some practical experience raising funds. Very soon there will be a premium on great fundraisers (if there isn't already) depending on the market and the issue area - if he wants to stay in fundraising.

My gut feeling is that his next three years could be pivotal and experience in the sector will outweigh an MBA or other grad program in many people's eyes.

I ultimately left the sector because I thought I could do more good outside of it by starting CoolPeopleCare.org. Before I made that leap, however, I looked long and hard an nonprofit master's programs.

I also sought the advice of people in the CEO and ED roles (where I thought I wanted to be). Not only did those conversations reveal some ideas about higher education, but I also learned what that position required. And in every case, it demanded a lot more than an advanced degree.

[Will Schneider]

I meant to add - a while back FLiP wrote a few articles about education in philanthropy:
http://flip.onphilanthropy.com/flip/augustseptember_2006_education_in_philanthropy/index.html

Also, I don't know how up-to-date this is, but this site has a searchable list of philanthropy programs (both degree-bearing and non) across the country. http://tltc.shu.edu/npo/

[VL]

I think it's a good idea to consider grad school. I took about three years working for a nonprofit before I decided to go back part time. However, I used that time to research programs and speak to people who had degrees in public administration (my area of interest). Idealist.org posts graduate school fairs. If he knows what he's interested in studying and where he ultimately wants to end up (i.e., director, fundraiser, policy analyst, etc), then attending one of those fairs with a list of key questions might be a good experience for him.

[Amy]

I am currently pursuing my MPA (halfway through) with a concentration in nonprofit management. While I will be happy in the end to have a master's degree, I find it frustrating that nonprofit management seems secondary to what most professors consider public administration - ie working for the government. When I voice frustrations, many respond that it will be helpful to understand the government in terms of funding. I reply that government funding is only a small fraction that seems to only be decreasing and is irrelevant to a vast number of nonprofits.

It seems an MPA is considered the way to go but I would make sure the faculty are supportive of students interested in nonprofit management and that there are a good number of relevant courses offered. Until there is a master's in nonprofit administration...

[Paul Verrette]

MBA? Why not MPA?

Grad school training specific to nonprofit management has been extremely important for quite some time now. It will only continue to increase in value. I have seen many nonprofit executives and managers of all levels that could have benefitted from some basic training specific to nonprofit financial management, the regulatory environment, human resources, strategic planning, etc. I have examined, using a set of very basic standards, the management of about 300 or so nonprofits in the past two years.

I also respectfully disagree with a previous comment that the value of higher training is of more benefit to those with executive aspirations. Nonprofits deserve the most qualified employees at all levels.

However a nonprofit degree will not always confer value on you automatically. Nonprofit degree programs are still new to many people. It is up to individuals to demonstrate the value of the degree themselves.

I went to NYU's Wagner school pretty much straight after my Peace Corps service. The combination of qualified professors and students with considerable nonprofit experience made for a great learning environment. I would recommend finding programs that enable working people to complete their degrees. The professional network your fellow students offer will be very important to you.

If you work full time, do not take a full class load. I did this for a semester or two, burned out a little and then took forever to write a thesis.

[debbie meyer]

In short, if you are going into a non profit organization that will require fundraising, the network of friends and contacts you will make while getting your degree will help you through out your career. (Another options, of course, is a fellowship program). You may end up meeting future philanthropists, future corporate giving officers, etc and they will know you and trust you. The network will ever expand.....and you will probably learn some valuable skills and lessons from the curriculum. Good Luck.

[Elizabeth Miller]

Whether or not to go to graduate school is something I'm trying to figure out for myself so this conversation is really interesting! Everyone's comments are great.

The only thing I'd add is to be sure that you really look at the kinds of jobs you'd want 5, 10, even 15 years down the road. Is an advanced degree a standard requirement and/or an expectation? Do most people in the specific field you're interested tend to have a certain kind of degree over another? Do you think you could get by with just good experience and good connections? By looking at the kinds of jobs you'd be interested, you'll have a better sense of what is necessary to get there. It'd probably also be helpful to talk to as many people as possible, both those that have gone on to get an advanced degree and those who have not and learn from their experiences.

Hopefully answering questions such as these will help you figure out your next steps!

[Kathryn]

Go to grad school. Nothing speaks like a Master's degree and more and more nonprofits are seeking the higher degree. Your salary will benefit from it as well. A master's is especially important if you want to be part of the senior management team. I would suggest complementing your schooling by taking on a fellowship or an internship at a well-known non-profit or government agency. You can also earn the degree through an executive or part-time program and work full-time simultaneously. With an executive program you will have the benefit of networking with fellow professionals and gaining their insight which can be invaluable.

Nonprofits were in part created to take up the slack from government, so receiving a comprehensive education on public systems, the private sector, and non profit sector via an MPA is invaluable. In addition, public/private partnerships are increasing everyday -- for example, The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and New York City Department of Education partnered to support 67 new schools as part of the city's overall plan to create 200 effective and rigorous small high schools -- to the tune of a $51 Million grant from Gates.

If you want to go global, consider an International program like Columbia's or Princeton's SIPA. There are quite a few great programs across the country -- just make sure the faculty is connected and comprises a healthy proportion of actively working professionals and academic types to get the best benefit. As mentioned above, attend a program where your cohorts are also working professionals so you can network -- also, classroom discussion tends to be more engaging and valuable with working professionals because everyone brings various experiences from their respective organizations which can be as interesting as some of the case studies you will no doubt have to analyze. Whether its a Master in Public Affairs or Public Administration, either will give you a leg up if you aim to be a leader in the field.

The MBA degree is not as golden as it used to be -- creative economy is here and the private sector does not have a corner on all things business. The world is changing and it is not business as usual.

[Kristin]

I think it really depends on how competitive the sector is where he/she lives. I live in Bermuda, and although we have a very thriving nonprofit sector, it is much smaller compared to the US. Thus, many who work in the area were able to grow and learn on the job vs having a certain degree. It's also easier to become well-known in the field.

I am 27 (having worked in nonprofit since I was 20), and am the Executive Director of a small youth organisation, plus a consultant to a grantmaker/charity advocacy group, and haven't yet completed my bachelors. I DEFINITELY plan on finishing (if only for the personal satisfaction, and the ability to work in another country if I choose), but am undecided about going on for my Masters. The on the job experience I am receiving is invaluable.

I do however agree with above statements about going for an MPA vs MBA. It demonstrates a commitment to the nonprofit sector, and also allows you to gain knowledge specific to this field.

[Victoria H.]

As someone who will graduate this May with an MPA, I would say that in todays market place it doesn't hurt it only helps. Is it the crux of getting a new job? No. But it definitely sets you apart. Plus, the field is becoming more professional and if you really want to paid top dollar I think you need the degree, plus work experience. I would say before getting a masters degree however work for a little while or at least volunteer in the sector. I also would tell you to learn about technology, trends in the sector, even marketing or fundraising courses, which I think are just as important as the general core classes taught in an MPA program. Also, as someone else said MPA degrees do focus a lot on government work, what would be nice is if more programs did focus on issues with the non-profit sector as well.

[Katrice]

Another angle to consider is getting a master's degree in a specific area of interest. With an MBA or any of its social variations, I think you are getting a broad stroke degree with perhaps a class or two in any given direction.

My specialty interest in nonprofit work is communications, and I pursued a master's in technical writing to further this interest. I'm now partly responsible for (and can forcast overseeing) strategy and analysis for proposals and stewardship. I feel my degree definitely played a major role in understanding how people read and respond to materials and overall sharpened my communications skills.

Alternatively, maybe a subject matter master's degree would help you understand your nonprofit's field better (education, racism, poverty, etc.).

[John G.]

As someone who completed an MBA with a concentration in nonprofit management two years ago I would highly recommend it. I went through the MPA vs. MBA vs. other nonprofit degree conversation. I chose the MBA because it provided the business, financial and management grounding I felt I needed and I knew I would never have to explain my degree. Most MBA programs prefer students to work three to five years before enrolling so the original poster has some time before making a decision.

[Dien S Yuen]

In addition to all that mentioned above, I'd like to suggest that there are many other possibilities out there besides the traditional MBA or graduate degree. For example, a friend has several years of experience in nonprofit work and is now in Vietnam working on an MBA from the Univ of Hawaii. You can read more about how she went through the thought process here: http://www.asianamericangiving.com/2007/12/over-the-years.html.

There are also certificates one can choose from depending on the focus of your interest. The American College is offering a Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy certificate. There is also a Certified Specialist in Planned Giving program down in Long Beach.

[Michelle]

I just completed my M.A. in Philanthropy and Development from Saint Mary's University in Minnesota. I secured a new position as director of development within weeks of completing the work, and the head of the search committee indicated that my experience was on par with the other candidates, but my CFRE and my master's in philanthropy proved commitment to the field that other candidates did not demonstrate.

Clearly, my education was key in securing the spot as top candidate, so I would highly recommend pursuing a degree. As mentioned before, this field is being professionalized and the more commitment each of us takes in raising the bar, the better off we will each be, both in the short term and in the long run.

[Barbara Sharpe]

I recently changed jobs and as I was searching, I found that more recruiters were interested in whether or not I had a CFRE and/or the Certificate in Fund Raising Management from Indiana University. On the other hand, an advanced degree is never a bad thing and can be an edge if you are looking for an Executive Director or CEO position. However, I'm considering a Masters of Social Work with an emphasis on nonprofit leadership and administration. It seems less tedious and government related than the MPA but still relevant.

[Adrianne]

My undergraduate degree is in Nonprofit Leadership Studies. I am currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Liberal Studies degree with museum education concentration, which is directly related to my work.

I can say that my undergraduate work helped land my job, and the fact that I am pursuing a specialized advanced degree signfies that I am committed to my job field. It also means that when managerial positions become available, I will have the required educational level to apply.

My husband recently acquired his MPA with concentration in nonprofit management and governmental affairs. His recent job interviewers have all mentioned that his advanced degree put him head and shoulders above the pack.

Neither one of us would be as successful if we had not pursued programs tailored for working students. Having evening and online classes made all the difference, as we needed to work to acquire the relevant job experience necessary for our positions.

[KM]

It is encouraging to me to see the responses above, but I have a slightly different perspective, as I am the exact demographic of this fundraiser.

I'm 24 and just completed my masters in political management. I continued working full time in the private consulting sector during the two years it took me to complete my degree. After completion, I moved to the nonprofit sector.

Everyone suggested to get my masters while I was still in "school-mode," so I took on education loans, figuring it would pay off. At 24, I find that many people regard my masters as simply an extension of my undergraduate education, and not the degree that it is.

True, it sometimes helps me get my foot in the door, but it has not even begun to pay for itself, as others have suggested. In some circles, I am still regarded as too "inexperienced". While I'm the first to admit that education is no substitute for hands-on experience, I also believe that obtaining this type of degree is no small feat either.

Because of this and other observations I have made, I would actually suggest postponing the graduate degree a year or two, while he continues working and gaining experience. I definitely support getting the degree, but with additional work experience under his belt.

This could make him a better candidate for the program, as well. Slightly older, more established classmates of mine were also more often able to have their company or organization help pay some of the tuition costs - as opposed to younger candidates, such as myself.

[FRancine Lynch]

Columbia Institute for Not-for-Profit Management

Upcoming 2008 Open Enrollment Programs.

§ Leadership Development Program: Designed to build effective leadership among nonprofit professionals with 5-10 years of management experience, this program offers in-depth instruction in visionary and strategic leadership skills, team development, communication, performance management, and leading organizational change. Participants receive 360-degree feedback and individual coaching.

§ Middle Management Program for Youth Service Organizations: This program is intended for nonprofit professionals with 2-5 years of management experience, including program directors, mid-level managers, as well as executive directors of smaller organizations. Participants study essential management disciplines – strategic management, administration, financial management, marketing, fund development, and organizational behavior – and work on strategic analysis projects to implement at their organizations.

PROGRAM DATES
APPLICATION DEADLINE

Leadership Development Program
April 6-11, 2008

February 5, 2008

Extended to February 15, 2008

Middle Management Program for Youth Service Organizations
April 14, May 11-16, June 6, 2008

February 20, 2008

Extended to February 28, 2008

Tuition Assistance:

For smaller organizations that are unable to fully sponsor attendance, INM offers tuition assistance. Requirements are listed on our Web site.

More Information:

To apply or to learn more, please visit our Web site: www.gsb.columbia.edu/execed/inm. If you have questions, you may reach us at inm@columbia.edu or 212.854.6018.

We continue to work to support your efforts of “Doing Good Well.”

Francine Lynch

Director

Institute for Not-for-Profit Management

Executive Education

Armstrong Hall

2880 Broadway – 4th Floor

New York, NY 10025

(212) 854-6133

Fel2110@columbia.edu

[FRancine Lynch]

Columbia Institute for Not-for-Profit Management

Upcoming 2008 Open Enrollment Programs.

§ Leadership Development Program: Designed to build effective leadership among nonprofit professionals with 5-10 years of management experience, this program offers in-depth instruction in visionary and strategic leadership skills, team development, communication, performance management, and leading organizational change. Participants receive 360-degree feedback and individual coaching.

§ Middle Management Program for Youth Service Organizations: This program is intended for nonprofit professionals with 2-5 years of management experience, including program directors, mid-level managers, as well as executive directors of smaller organizations. Participants study essential management disciplines – strategic management, administration, financial management, marketing, fund development, and organizational behavior – and work on strategic analysis projects to implement at their organizations.

PROGRAM DATES
APPLICATION DEADLINE

Leadership Development Program
April 6-11, 2008

February 5, 2008

Extended to February 15, 2008

Middle Management Program for Youth Service Organizations
April 14, May 11-16, June 6, 2008

February 20, 2008

Extended to February 28, 2008

Tuition Assistance:

For smaller organizations that are unable to fully sponsor attendance, INM offers tuition assistance. Requirements are listed on our Web site.

More Information:

To apply or to learn more, please visit our Web site: www.gsb.columbia.edu/execed/inm. If you have questions, you may reach us at inm@columbia.edu or 212.854.6018.

We continue to work to support your efforts of “Doing Good Well.”

Francine Lynch

Director

Institute for Not-for-Profit Management

Executive Education

Armstrong Hall

2880 Broadway – 4th Floor

New York, NY 10025

(212) 854-6133

Fel2110@columbia.edu

[Mindy Breva]

So glad to find that others are also struggling with this question. I too have been searching for the answer myself, as a 33 year old, 2nd career fundraiser. Of course, the answer is muddled. I believe it depends on your career goals and also how competitive the job marketplace is in your area. I find that a large national or international nonprofit or foundation would definitely value the degree. When I view postings from these organizations, many list an advanced degree as a minimum job requirement. However, a smaller nonprofit would most likely value on-the-job experience over academic experience. I have been struggling personally with analyzing the return on my investment in a graduate school education - it ain't cheap! A recent check of the tuition that NYU and Columbia are charging for their Masters in Fundraising programs gave me great pause. But I have found a few schools that are offering better value for the investment (I think). My alma mater Metropolitan State University offers an online MPNA with reasonable tuition rates and you can complete the entire program online: http://mpnaonline.metrostate.edu/. I have decided to pursue this option because it's actually affordable and very flexible. I can pursue my degree while continuing to build my consulting business and I won't more to my debt load. Also, Indiana University's Center of Philanthropy has some flexible programs as well. Having said all that, I do believe that good old fashioned networking with your colleagues and just plain working hard and learning as much as you can on the job are equally as valuable as a college education (if not more so). The fundraising professional organizations (AFP, APRA, etc) also provide great opportunities for training and meeting colleagues. In my experience, these professional opportunities and relationships prove to be the most valuable tools in building your nonprofit career. That way you have a list of people to call when you finish your degree and are looking for a job! Best of luck to you!