Nonprofit Leadership
Graduate Certificate
Nonprofit leadership certificate overview
Nonprofits are the heart of community change, but leading them effectively requires a unique set of skills.
You'll learn how to navigate the complexities of the nonprofit sector, build strong teams and secure the resources needed to achieve an organization's mission.
Program Snapshot
Why choose a nonprofit leadership certificate at CMU?
Earning a nonprofit leadership graduate certificate prepares you to guide organizations that are dedicated to improving the world. You’ll develop skills you can apply in the public and nonprofit sectors.
This certificate is linked to the Certified Nonprofit Professional (CNP) credential, the only industry-recognized credential in the nonprofit sector. To earn a CNP, you complete several components, including an academic curriculum, volunteer service, and professional experience, and pass an exam. The nonprofit leadership certificate satisfies the academic component for the CNP.
The certificate can be completed by regularly admitted graduate students who desire advanced training in the field of nonprofit administration and/or want to pursue a CNP credential. Credits successfully earned with the certificate program may be used toward the MPA degree.
This certificate does not have electives. It consists of four classes (PAD 521, 522, 523WI, and 620) all available online.
Highlights of the nonprofit leadership certificate
As a student getting their nonprofit leadership certificate, you'll:
- Build a strong foundation: You'll develop the skills you need to lead an organization that’s making the world a better place, while gaining knowledge in nonprofit management, board governance and executive leadership, public personnel management and more.
- Network with like-minded people: Join a community of classmates and professors who share your passion for leadership and service.
- Learn from experts in the field: Our faculty publish in top journals, actively engage the public-sector community and explore cutting-edge teaching techniques.
- Stand out from the rest: In addition, the coursework in this graduate certificate is aligned with the industry-recognized Certified Nonprofit Professional (CNP) credential. Completion of this graduate certificate will satisfy the academic component of the CNP and prepare students to take the CNP exam.
Join the Nonprofit Leadership Student Alliance
By joining the Nonprofit Leadership Student Alliance, you'll be able to network with experienced nonprofit leaders. You'll experience professional development opportunities such as listening to speakers, workshops and an annual national conference. You'll be a part of a network of people who want to make a difference in the world.
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