Nonprofit Management Certificate
Nonprofit agencies of all kinds are being established to fulfill needs in our communities, while existing community benefit organizations are expanding to meet increasing demand for services. This growth means new opportunities in the rewarding nonprofit sector.
The 18-credit nonprofit management certificate is offered by the College of General Studies in partnership with Pitt's Graduate School of Public and International Affairs. The program provides a solid foundation for those looking to enter the field of public service, enhance their current roles, or assume leadership positions. Coursework covers topics including management, fundraising, human resources, and more.
Certificate at a Glance
6 courses (18 credits), including a three-credit internship.
Finish in as little as 2–3 terms or at a pace that fits your schedule.
This certificate can be pursued as a standalone program or alongside another degree at Pitt. Certificate credits may also be applied to a CGS bachelor’s degree, such as the BA in Public Service.
Who Should Participate
- Professionals with public relations experience
- Professionals with an interest in fundraising
- Professionals with a background in program development
- Professionals with knowledge of marketing and advertising
- Recent graduates or current students who wish to pursue a career in the nonprofit field
- Undergraduate degree-seeking students who wish to have an intermediate credential
- Technology workers
- Entrepreneurs who wish to start a nonprofit
Program Expectations
Graduates of this program will be able to:
- Organize, manage, or supervise a nonprofit organization
- Hire and train an efficient staff
- Understand the structural and financial issues unique to nonprofits
- Lead effective fundraising efforts
- Write grant proposals
Credit Requirements
- The Nonprofit Management certificate requires 18 credits of core courses, including a three-credit internship.
- Students must achieve a minimum grade of C (2.0) or better for all courses required for the program.
- Credits earned at other accredited educational institutions may be eligible for transfer. However, 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 ApplyCoursework
Required Courses: 18 credits
Complete all six required courses.
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
Although courses for the certificate can be taken in any order, we strongly recommend that students consider completing PUBSRV 0020 Introduction to Public Service first in order to gain exposure to main theories and practices in the field. Normally the internship would be completed last; however, students should start planning their internship early and review their options with a CGS advisor.
- The internship requires 120 hours at the internship site along with registration for the PUBSRV 1900 course.
- Students who work at the University should consult with the PUBSRV internship instructor as to whether they need to complete internship hours outside of Pitt or in a different department on campus.
- PUBSRV 1900 is a 3-credit course and may not be divided over two semesters. However, the student could work with their internship instructor to see if the 120 hours could be divided 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 CoursesPlanning Resources
Use the Nonprofit Management Certificate Checklist (PDF) to map out your required courses and monitor your progress toward completion.
Download Checklist (PDF)Pitt Opportunities
You'll have plenty of support and chances to get involved at CGS and the greater University community, including student organizations and research centers.
Note: Requirements are subject to change. Check with an academic advisor before registering.