Nonprofit Management

Is this course being offered this semester?  You can check on the availability of a course through our course offering directory.  Select the appropriate semester as well as the University Center.

Where can I get a course description?  Click on the course links to view a course description. 

How do I register for a course?  You can register for a course using our online registration form , or you can print the form and fax/mail it to the University Center. 

What is required to complete a Certificate in Nonprofit Management? You are required to attend and participate in 35 hours of courses from the designated list of courses offered through U.Va.’s School of Continuing and Professional Studies.     

Are there any required courses this certificate? There are no “required courses”. Students can customize their own studies based on their professional and educational backgrounds and their anticipated needs for the future. We are available to assist students in evaluating which courses might be appropriate. 

What can I hope to learn from earning a certificate? The certificate offers a selection of both overview and skill-based courses so that nonprofit leaders, staff, board members and volunteers can benefit from completing this certificate. Three key elements are emphasized in all courses: (1) the importance of mission (2) key relationships, and (3) evolving technologies.   

Will I be a part of a “cohort group” that is studying for the certificate? No, the certificate is an individualized course of study.  Students can begin the certificate at any time with any of the designated courses and can continue at their own pace based on individual needs. 

Is there a time limit for having completed all courses? No, students can take as long as they need to complete the 35 contact hours. 

How do I get my actual certificate? Once you have completed 35 contact hours, you can send in your application, $25 fee, and the “course tracking form” (which lists all of the courses you’ve taken) and mail it to University Center.  You will be sent your certificate and invited to participate in the graduation exercise scheduled in May/June. 

Is there a graduation exercise for the certificate program? Yes, each May/June there will be an informal ceremony at the School of Continuing and Professional Studies to recognize those who have completed the certificate. 

I’ve already taken courses through U.Va.’s School of Continuing and Professional Studies. Can I count those courses toward the certificate? Yes, courses that you have taken previously that are designated courses for the certificate will count toward your certificate.  

Could some of my extensive work experience be applied toward this certificate, allowing me to take less contact hours to complete the certificate? Unfortunately, we are unable to substitute work experience for contact hours to earn the certificate. Instead, we have designed the certificate as a totally elective (no requirements) certificate, so that students do not have to enroll in courses with subject areas in which they are professionally versed.  Our broad range of courses should be interesting and challenging to students with a wide range of scholastic and professional backgrounds.

Can I enroll in just a few courses?  I’m not interested in earning the certificate.   Yes, you can enroll in courses without applying for the certificate. 

Is it possible to offer this program in my region?  All courses are offered in Charlottesville. Several courses are also offered in Richmond. If you are interested in this program, but it isn't offered in your region, please contact us.

How can I find out more about this program?  Please contact the program director.