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Nonprofit Management Certificate

Nonprofit Management Certificate

Build the skills to support, lead, and grow nonprofit organizations. This 18-credit certificate prepares you to explore careers in public service and nonprofit management, with coursework in areas such as management, fundraising, human resources, and program development.

The certificate is offered by the College of General Studies in partnership with Pitt's School of Public and International Affairs.

Certificate at a Glance

18 CREDITS

Complete six courses, including a three-credit internship.

FLEXIBLE FORMAT

Choose from available online and hybrid courses to fit your learning needs and schedule.

HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE

Complete an internship to gain practical experience in a nonprofit setting.

THE CGS DIFFERENCE

Pursue the certificate on its own or alongside another Pitt degree. Credits may also apply to a CGS bachelor’s degree, such as the BA in Public Service.

Who Should Participate

Explore Nonprofit Careers

  • Students and recent graduates interested in nonprofit or public service careers
  • Students looking for an intermediate credential alongside their undergraduate degree
  • Entrepreneurs interested in starting a nonprofit organization
  • Technology professionals interested in applying their skills in the nonprofit sector

Build Professional Skills

  • Professionals with experience in public relations, marketing, or advertising
  • Professionals interested in fundraising or development
  • Professionals with experience in program development
  • Professionals looking to strengthen their nonprofit management or leadership skills

Program Expectations

Through this certificate, you’ll develop practical skills to:

Manage Organizations

Organize, manage, and supervise nonprofit organizations and their operations.

Build Effective Teams

Develop skills for hiring, training, and supporting an effective staff.

Understand Nonprofit Finance

Explore the structural and financial issues that shape nonprofit organizations.

Lead Fundraising

Plan and support effective fundraising efforts and donor development.

Write Grant Proposals

Develop skills for creating clear and effective grant proposals.

Credit Requirements

  • The Nonprofit Management certificate requires 18 credits of core courses, including a three-credit internship.
  • Students must earn a minimum grade of C (2.0) in all courses required for the program.
  • Credits earned at other accredited educational institutions may be eligible for transfer. A minimum of nine credits must be earned at the University of Pittsburgh.

How to Declare

Students must meet requirements for admission to the College of General Studies. An online application must be completed and returned to CGS.

Learn More and Apply

Coursework

Required Courses: 18 credits

Complete all six required courses.

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Note: PUBSRV 1910 Institute of Politics Internship/Seminar (4 cr.) may be used in place of PUBSRV 1900 Internship Seminar. Check with your CGS advisor prior to registering.

Program Notes

Courses may be taken in any order, but we recommend completing PUBSRV 0020 Introduction to Public Service early in the program. Plan for the internship well in advance and review your options with a CGS advisor.

  • The internship requires 120 hours at the internship site along with registration for PUBSRV 1900.
  • Students who work at the University should consult with the PUBSRV internship instructor about internship placement options.
  • PUBSRV 1900 is a three-credit course and may not be divided over two semesters. Students may work with their internship instructor to determine whether the 120 hours can be completed over two terms.
  • Learn more about internships »

Resources & Flexible Options

Flexible Learning Options

Many courses include online and hybrid formats, allowing you to build your skills wherever you are.

View Online Courses

Planning Resources

Use the Nonprofit Management Certificate Checklist to map out your required courses and track your progress.

Download Checklist (PDF)

Pitt Opportunities

Connect your coursework with opportunities to learn, lead, volunteer, and engage with the Pitt community.

Johnson Institute for Responsible Leadership

Explore leadership development and responsible decision-making through programs and initiatives focused on ethical leadership.

Ford Institute for Human Security

Engage with research and programs addressing human security, global challenges, and issues affecting communities around the world.

PittServes

Find volunteer opportunities that connect you with community organizations and help you put your interests into action.

Elsie Hillman Civic Forum

Explore civic engagement, public policy, and internship opportunities that connect students with Pittsburgh and beyond.

Questions

Carey Treado, PhD

Director, Public Service Programs

University of Pittsburgh

Email: ctreado@pitt.edu

Note: Requirements are subject to change. Check with an academic advisor before registering.

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