The Graduate Certificate in Nonprofit Leadership prepares professionals to lead social change through the nonprofit sector. Drawing on Portland’s strong nonprofit entrepreneurial spirit, the program equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to strengthen nonprofit organizations and the communities they serve. Coursework blends theory with practice, with emphasis on inclusive governance, fundraising, and the role of nonprofits in sustaining civil society.
Rooted in PSU’s long-standing Nonprofit Management specialization within the Master of Public Administration (MPA), this certificate offers a standalone credential for working professionals or a stackable option for MPA students seeking additional recognition on their transcript.
Program Highlights:
- Learn nonprofit governance and management grounded in equity and inclusion
- Gain hands-on skills in fundraising and grantwriting
- Explore nonprofit history, foundations, and diverse cultural perspectives
- Flexible formats: in-person, online, hybrid, and weekend intensives
- Stackable with PSU’s MPA and open to other PSU master’s students
- Strong connections to Portland’s vibrant nonprofit community through PSU’s Nonprofit Institute
By completing this certificate, you will be able to:
- Articulate the ethics, values, and responsibilities of nonprofit professionals.
- Apply nonprofit leadership and management theories to real-world practice.
- Lead inclusively and engage with diverse communities.
- Develop and manage systems to improve organizational performance.
- Design creative, collaborative solutions to complex nonprofit challenges.
- Strengthen verbal and written communication in professional nonprofit contexts.
This certificate is designed for:
- Current nonprofit professionals seeking leadership skills.
- Public and private sector professionals transitioning into nonprofit work.
- Graduate students in other PSU programs (e.g., Public Health, Social Work, Education) who wish to supplement their studies with nonprofit management expertise.
- Individuals aspiring to roles such as executive director, program manager, development director, or board leader.
FAQs
- Can this certificate stack into the MPA? Yes, MPA students can earn both the MPA and the Graduate Certificate.
- Is the GRE required? No.
- Can I study part-time? Yes, the program is designed for working professionals.
- Are courses online? Yes, courses are offered in-person, hybrid, and online.