Graduate Certificate in Nonprofit Management

A survey of the legal structure that defines and regulates the nonprofit sector and an examination of fundamental governance issues in nonprofit corporations. The focus of the course is on the board of directors (trustees) and the executive director and their fiduciary responsibilities established both by law and by the moral imperatives from actions on behalf of the public interest.

A comparative analysis of the various theories, principles, and styles of leadership and how they apply to the management and governance challenges in nonprofits; complex organizations with a wide range of stakeholders and often fragile and fragmented financing.

A comprehensive study of the key financial statements to help monitor the organization’s financial health. An analysis of fund accounting, the importance of quality financial reporting and financial controls to protect and sustain nonprofit organizations, and the budget as a tool to direct the organization are included in this course.

A comprehensive analysis of the dimensions of philanthropy in the United States, the structure of effective fundraising programs, and the competencies needed by successful fundraisers. The course also examines the motivations of donors, impact of tax policy on giving, and resources available for nonprofit fundraisers.

This course is a specialized course for nonprofit managers and those involved in advocacy and lobbying activities on behalf of a nonprofit organization. A pervasive myth claims that charitable nonprofits, 501(c )(3)s are not permitted to engage in lobbying activities. In fact, the Internal Revenue Code allows generous provisions for lobbying. In addition, advocacy has been recognized as an important function for nonprofit managers to further their charitable missions. As with other functions of the nonprofit organization, advocacy and government relations activities must be planned, budgeted for, and managed.

Nonprofit organizations advance their missions through marketing and communications strategies. This course presents the basics of marketing principles that nonprofit managers need to develop and implement a marketing plan. This overview demonstrates various reasons for marketing, either for a specific fundraising goal, such as a capital campaign, or communicating a position on a policy issue. Students learn specific steps needed to craft a marketing plan. Steps include a context analysis, an analysis of strengths and weaknesses, creation of core message development, and audience identification. The course provides tools for identifying the objectives, goals, strategies, and tactics needed to implement a marketing plan. Students work with case exercises throughout in order to shed light on trends and best practices in nonprofit communications and marketing, including social media, crisis management, and working with the press.