Nonprofit Leadership, Graduate Certificate

Online

Program Available

Graduate Certificate

Program Type

Total Credits

12

Affordability

Private School Education At State School Prices

Why Study Nonprofit Leadership?

The nonprofit leadership certificate provides essential skills for effectively managing nonprofit and philanthropic organizations. The nonprofit leadership development training program prepares students to lead mission-driven work, navigate limited resources, and attract funding to support impactful initiatives. Park University’s Graduate Certificate in Nonprofit Leadership is especially valuable for those planning to pursue an MPA, as all four courses count toward the MPA in Nonprofit Management. This streamlined path allows students to gain specialized nonprofit training while accelerating progress toward a graduate degree.

What You’ll Learn

  • The nonprofit leadership program will enable you to distinguish between nonprofit, government, and business organizations by analyzing their legal structures, missions, social purposes, and overall impact.
  • Upon completion of the nonprofit leadership training program, you will understand the critical role of philanthropy and voluntary action in shaping and sustaining the nonprofit sector.
  • You will be equipped to apply core management practices specific to nonprofits, including governance, board leadership, and executive decision-making.
  • The nonprofit leadership certificate prepares you to assess how individual civic responsibility and community mobilization contribute to addressing social needs in both U.S. and global contexts.
  • You will be qualified to critically evaluate social policies—past and present—to help improve areas such as social welfare, health, employment, and civil rights.

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Dr. James Vanderleeuw


Professor of Public Administration
james.vanderleeuw@park.edu

Dr. Susan Keim


Associate Professor of Public Administration
skeim@park.edu

Tuition & Fees

Park University offers a transparent and student-focused approach to tuition and financial aid. Our tuition structure is designed to be competitive and manageable, and our financial aid counselors are available to guide you through every step of the process. From understanding your cost breakdown to exploring funding options, we ensure that financial planning is clear, personalized, and aligned with your educational journey.

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Admission Requirements

Park University’s graduate certificate programs are designed for professionals looking to deepen their expertise. To apply, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and a minimum GPA of 2.75. You can pursue a certificate on its own or alongside a graduate degree—with your advisor’s approval. Keep in mind that certificate admission doesn’t automatically grant entry to a full graduate program. To earn the certificate, you’ll need to maintain a 3.0 GPA and complete 75% of the program coursework at Park to meet the residency requirements.

Visit Admissions Policies and Procedures to learn more about admission requirements at Park University.

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Nonprofit Leadership Career & Future Opportunities

Social and Community Service Manager

Social and community service managers are nonprofit leaders who coordinate and oversee programs that support public well-being, working with community members and stakeholders to identify needed services. They manage staff, analyze program effectiveness, plan outreach, and secure funding to ensure programs meet their goals.

Fundraising Manager

A fundraising manager develops and executes strategies to secure donations through campaigns, events, grants, and donor outreach. They also manage fundraising team members and track progress toward meeting the organization’s financial goals.

Public Relations Director

A public relations manager plans and oversees communication strategies to shape and enhance the public image of their nonprofit organization. They manage media relations, craft press materials, and guide executives on effective public communication while supervising PR staff and campaigns.

Volunteer Services Manager

A volunteer services manager develops and implements strategies to recruit, train, and support volunteers, ensuring they are effectively integrated into the organization. They oversee volunteer coordinators, track program success, manage budgets, and collaborate with department heads to identify meaningful volunteer opportunities.

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*General salary and employment outcomes vary by geographic area, previous work experience, education and opportunities for employment that are outside of Park University’s Control. The labor market and average salary range can be explored further at the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics.

FAQs: Nonprofit Leadership Graduate Certificate

Yes, Park University’s nonprofit leadership certificate is offered entirely online, providing flexibility for working professionals in the nonprofit sector. This format allows nonprofit managers, social sector leaders, and aspiring changemakers to complete nonprofit leadership development training from anywhere, on their own schedule.

Graduates of Park University’s nonprofit leadership programs often pursue roles such as executive director, program coordinator, fundraising manager, or social enterprise strategist. The certificate enhances your ability to provide effective leadership in nonprofit organizations or pursue social entrepreneurship opportunities and is recognized as a valuable credential for nonprofit professional development.

The Nonprofit Leadership Graduate Certificate can typically be completed in less than one year. Designed for busy nonprofit professionals, the program offers part-time flexibility and asynchronous coursework to accommodate your schedule.

The curriculum includes nonprofit leadership development training in areas such as coaching, fundraising, team management, and strategic planning. Students gain practical skills to lead nonprofit organizations, drive social impact, and support professional development across diverse teams.

Related programs

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Class Start Dates: Term Dates

Park University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Park University is a private, non-profit, institution of higher learning since 1875.