How to Become a Grant Writer

According to Nonprofit Quarterly, a publication focused on public-sector news, nonprofits receive between 30 and 45 percent of their funding from grants. This funding allows public hospitals to keep people healthy, food banks to keep their shelves stocked, and service organizations to continue bringing equity and security to everyone they serve.

Because of that, grant writers are essential to the nonprofit sector. For those who want to help nonprofits and public health organizations secure funding, here’s how to become a grant writer, along with information on using grant writing skills to pursue a master’s degree in public administration or public health and become an effective nonprofit or public health administrator.

What Does a Grant Writer Do? Duties and Skills

The primary responsibility of a grant writer is to solicit funding for their organization. Grants can come from government agencies, charitable foundations, private businesses or other organizations.

In pursuit of that goal, grant writers are often responsible for:

• Identifying and staying up to date on grant opportunities
• Writing and submitting grant proposals
• Gathering supporting documentation such as financial records to submit with grant proposals
• Maintaining and updating financial records
• Collaborating with managers and other organizational leaders
• Fostering relationships with grant-giving organizations

To carry out these duties, grant writers need a mix of hard and soft skills. They need to be able to write engaging proposals, conduct research on different types of grants, and communicate effectively with grant-giving institutions and team members.

Where Do Grant Writers Work?

Grant writers work in every area of the public and nonprofit sectors, including universities, hospitals, charities, research organizations, and nonprofits of all kinds and sizes. Some even work in the private sector, especially for organizations involved in public projects.

Grant writers can also work independently, as freelancers or for consulting firms that help organizations secure grants.

Steps to Become a Grant Writer

Many paths lead to becoming a grant writer, and each organization has its own requirements. However, many professionals pursue a path that includes earning a Master of Public Health (MPH) or a Master of Public Administration (MPA) to learn the necessary skills and later pivot into leadership positions..

1. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree

Entry-level grant writers generally must have a bachelor’s degree. Many different types of degrees can equip students with the necessary skills.

For example, many grant writers earn degrees in:

• English
• Journalism
• Marketing
• Organizational leadership
• Education
• Social work
• Public health
• Public administration

Additionally, it can be helpful to take classes or earn a certificate in grant writing. Some colleges and universities offer such opportunities, but several independent organizations offer online classes and certifications.

2. Identify Grant Writing Opportunities

While it’s possible to become a grant writer after earning a bachelor’s degree, many organizations require applicants to have some experience. Volunteering or interning with local organizations such as charities, hospitals, and one’s own college or university can be a great way to build skills and pursue an entry-level grant writing position.

3. Earn a Master’s Degree and Seek Higher Level Positions

Over their careers, grant writers often learn how their organizations operate, build relationships with other organizations, and become experts in gathering and using resources. With these qualities, an experienced grant writer can pivot into leadership positions.

An experienced grant writer may want to consider the following roles:

• Grant program manager
• Partnership coordinator
• Marketing or public relations manager
• Senior grant consultant
• Financial, budgeting or marketing positions

Gaining experience in such positions can be an important step in taking on executive, C-suite and similar high-level roles. Professionals on this path may also want to consider earning an MPA or MPH.

Master of Public Administration

Earning an MPA can be a great way for rising leaders at government agencies and nonprofit organizations to learn more leadership skills. The curriculum varies by school, but MPA programs typically offer classes on decision-making, public policy analysis, and program evaluation. Some offer classes on grant writing.

Master of Public Health

Professionals working for hospitals and public health agencies can further their careers by earning an MPH degree. These programs often feature classes on health informatics, epidemiology and other skills needed to work as a public health administrator.

Another option for grant writers who want to transition into leadership in the public health sector is to earn a certificate in public health from a college or university. Certificate programs teach similar skills to full MPH programs but don’t include as many classes. They can be a great option for professionals who want to pursue another degree such as an MPA or who already have leadership experience.

Grant Writer Salary and Job Growth

According to Payscale, grant writers made a median annual salary of about $57,400 as of October 2025. The highest earning grant writers made a base salary closer to $79,000. These positions may also come with bonuses and other benefits.

By 2034, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) expects employment for public relations and fundraising managers to increase by 5 percent. This faster-than-average growth is equivalent to 10,200 job openings per year between 2024 and 2034. While not all fundraising professionals are grant writers, organizations in every sector value professionals with this skill set.

Learn to Make a Difference

Augusta University Online’s MPA, and MPH, and Certificate in Public Health programs can help you take your next step toward becoming an advocate for your community’s most vulnerable people — no matter whether you’re planning on becoming a grant writer or you’ve already started your career in the public sector, 

Both programs offer hands-on learning opportunities that teach students to become effective and ethical leaders in the public sector. While AU Online strives to maintain a collaborative community, both programs provide the flexibility working students need.

To find out more about the curriculum of the MPA and MPH programs, request more information today.

Recommended Readings
Fundraising Manager: Job Description, Requirements and Salary
How to Get Funding for a Nonprofit: Tips and Resources
What Does a Budget Analyst Do?

Sources:
Indeed, Grant Writer Job Description: Top Duties and Qualifications
Indeed, How to Become a Grant Writer
Indeed, Learn About Being a Grant Writer
Nonprofit Quarterly, “Nonprofits by the Numbers: Sector’s Vital Role in American Life”
Payscale, Average Grant Writer Salary
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Public Relations and Fundraising Managers