Updated: Friday, July 10th, 2009

Newly released figures have painted an optimistic picture of prospects awaiting those who plan to use their MBAs and other academic degrees to pursue a career in the nonprofit sector.

The 2009 Nonprofit Compensation and Benefits Report, published by Rollins Philanthropy & Nonprofit Leadership Center, examined the compensation, benefits and employment practices of more than 145 nonprofit organizations across the country.

It found that base salary levels for CEOs or executive directors in the sector are now $93,939, compared to $79,161 in 2007.

In addition to that, average compensation for COOs or associate directors is $87,897 in 2009 versus $72,902 in 2007, and for CFOs the figure is $90,897 as opposed to $85,135 two years ago.

"Since the two years when we released our initial findings, we've seen mounting pressure on nonprofits to compete for talent with their business counterparts, resulting in higher pay at the top-level and a need for more comprehensive benefits for employees at all levels," says Margaret Linanne, the center's executive director.

Those who succeed in the nonprofit field often successfully transition into business careers, which may be even more financially rewarding.

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