Curriculum

The Certificate in Fundraising Leadership is affiliated with the Master of Nonprofit Leadership program, and students completing the certificate program may apply 9 credits toward the masters degree. 

Students also receive the continuing education credits and preparation for the Association of Fundraising Professional’s widely-recognized Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) credential.  The Certificate in Fundraising Leadership consists of five required courses:

NPLR 5600: Fundraising Leadership, 3 credits

Fundraising is most effective when leaders foster and support a culture of philanthropy across an organization and its constituencies.  Students will learn to analyze trends, assess opportunities, develop effective and ethical strategies, integrate fundraising into the larger strategic vision of the organization, and inspire others to action.

NPLR 5610: Individual Giving, 3 credits

How do we inspire individuals to give?  This course combines the latest research on the psychological, sociological and diverse cultural influences on giving with proven practices in the field so that students learn to broaden and sustain their donor support.  Students will learn to plan, prospect, solicit, track and recognize annual giving and major gifts.

NPLR 5620: Financial Analysis, 3 credits

Financial position, robustness, and flexibility are all areas that are vitally important for effective nonprofit leadership. Students will gain an understanding of the fundamentals of the nonprofit capital cycle, the drivers of financial strength, and skills of financial analysis, forecasting, budgeting, and reporting.

NPLR 5630: Communications for Fundraising, 3 credits

Leaders must be able to apply key principles of marketing and public relations to fundraising, and represent their organization’s vision ethically and effectively. Students will learn to develop and implement a comprehensive, donor-focused communications plan, segment audiences, develop compelling messaging, and engage constituents in the mission using a wide range of communications platforms.

NPLR 5640: Grantwriting & Grant Management, 3 credits

Foundation, corporate and public grants constitute a significant portion of funding in the sector.  Students will learn to identify foundation, corporate and government grant opportunities, design strong programs and evaluations, develop compelling proposals, negotiate contracts, and develop and sustain relationships with funders.