In this nonprofit management certificate program, you’ll develop general leadership abilities and knowledge needed to oversee a nonprofit organization. Specific areas of focus include creative problem-solving, strategic planning, fundraising, volunteer management and more. You’ll also learn the history and philosophy of nonprofits while taking a deeper dive into the concepts of theory, research and practice used in modern nonprofit management.
Earn a master’s degree through stackable certificates
This graduate certificate can stand alone or serve as a main certificate toward a Master of Advanced Study. To complete the degree, you’ll stack a second 15-credit graduate certificate. This opportunity allows you to design a program tailored to your career goals and interests.
When admitted, connect with your academic advisor about stackable MAS options.
What makes me a good candidate for this nonprofit leadership and management certificate?
The nonprofit leadership and management certificate is ideal for students who have or wish to gain professional work experience in the nonprofit sector. This certificate is also a good option for those currently pursuing a master’s degree. Earning a graduate certificate in nonprofit leadership and management can build a bridge between your current skill set and other senior roles in this field. Overall, this certificate complements several areas of study, including:
- Emergency management and homeland security.
- Family and human development.
- Health care innovation.
- Public safety leadership and administration.
- Sustainability leadership.
Can this certificate prepare me to start a nonprofit or operate a small, local organization?
While the nonprofit management certificate can support a variety of professionals, it is not intended to address the needs of individuals who are:
- Planning to start a new nonprofit.
- Seeking a practical education on operating a small nonprofit.
If these situations apply to you, you may want to consider alternative options for learning, such as the ASU Lodestar Center’s Nonprofit Management Institute.
Earning a graduate certificate in nonprofit leadership and management helps you strengthen your current knowledge and abilities, supporting the pursuit of senior roles in this field. By combining your current skill set with an advanced understanding of how nonprofits function, you’ll be prepared to effectively organize and manage an organization’s operations.
Through this program’s connection to the Master of Nonprofit Leadership and Management, you can access a rich variety of coursework led by a faculty dedicated to philanthropy. A broad range of electives empowers you to focus on nonprofit topics most relevant to your career goals.
The impressive faculty in the Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions inspire the next generation of public service leaders through real-world solutions to issues in areas such as child welfare, safety, city management, human trafficking and water scarcity. Faculty highlights include:
- Fellow of the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences.
- Fellow of the American Psychological Association.
- Member of the National Academy of Public Administration.
The Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions is a comprehensive public service college dedicated to addressing social problems through teaching, research and service. Our programs, which range from public policy and social work to criminal justice and emergency management, are designed to prepare graduates to make a difference in their communities.
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Applicants to the graduate certificate in nonprofit leadership and management program must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and the Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions.
Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they’ve earned a bachelor's or master's degree in any field from a regionally accredited institution.
Applicants must have a minimum of a 3.00 cumulative GPA in the last 60 hours of their bachelor's program. Alternatively, applicants must have a minimum of a 3.00 cumulative GPA in an applicable master’s degree program.
All applicants must submit:
- Graduate admission application and application fee.
- Official transcripts.
- Proof of English proficiency.
- This certificate is designed for applicants with an exploratory interest in studying the nonprofit sector. Strong applications will include a personal statement that demonstrates this interest.
- An applicant whose native language is not English (regardless of current residency) must provide proof of English proficiency.
No, Arizona State University’s certificates and diplomas don’t specify whether you earn them online or in person. All certificates, diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”