Nonprofit Management Graduate Certificate

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Program Overview

Lead With Purpose.

This five-course graduate certificate equips learners with the strategic, operational, and advocacy skills necessary to lead and grow mission-driven organizations. Drawing from the fields of advocacy, policy, strategic design and fundraising, this graduate certificate provides a multidisciplinary foundation for understanding and managing the complex landscape of nonprofit work.

Learners will explore key topics such as nonprofit governance, grant writing, community-based leadership, strategic design and public policy advocacy. Through a culminating applied learning experience, knowledge is put into practice in real-world nonprofit settings to foster innovation, sustainability and social impact.

This graduate certificate is ideal for learners who want to expand their impact, including professionals who lead, manage or support mission-driven organizations; are in education, healthcare, faith-based institutions or municipal leadership roles; or are looking to transition into the nonprofit sector.

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CURRICULUM SNAPSHOT

This graduate certificate can typically be completed within three to four terms. Students can enter in fall, spring or summer terms. To earn a graduate certificate in Nonprofit Management, students must earn 15 credits in the following five course:

  • MAP 640 – Nonprofit Management
  • MAP 611 – Community Action and Policy -or- MAP 650 – Political Advocacy and Lobbying
  • MAP 610 – Grant Writing and Fundraising
  • SDG 606 – Design for Business Strategy
  • MAP 675 – Community-Based Practicum

CAREER PATHWAYS

Graduates of this graduate certificate will be prepared for a variety of roles that strengthen nonprofit organizations and advance mission-driven work across sectors. Possible career paths include:

  • Nonprofit Executive Director or Program Manager
  • Fundraising and Development Officer
  • Grant Writer or Grant Manager
  • Civic Leaders
  • Community Engagement or Outreach Coordinator
  • Volunteer Program Manager
  • Policy and Advocacy Specialist
  • Community Organizers
  • Public Affairs or Communications Manager
  • Corporate Social Responsibility Manager
  • Strategic Initiatives or Innovation Lead within mission-based organizations

How to Apply

This program is open to all educational and career backgrounds.

Admission/Application Requirements:

  • A graduate admissions application, accompanied by a one-time, non-refundable fee of $55 (fee waived if you have previously taken a graduate course at Furman).
  • One recommendation submitted through a link sent to the recommender.
  • Current resume.
  • Interview with program director.
  • Official transcripts from all higher education institutions attended.
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