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Voinovich School of Leadership and Public Service
Ohio University
Building 21, The Ridges
1 Ohio University
Athens, OH 45701 – 2979
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Online Nonprofit Leadership and Management Certificate

Online Nonprofit Leadership and Management Certificate

3
Courses
$814
Ohio Resident, Cost Per Credit
9
Credit Hours

Your Path to Purpose-Driven Leadership

The online Nonprofit Leadership and Management Certificate provides you with practical and effective skills to begin or advance your career in the nonprofit sector. You’ll build a strong understanding of the regulatory environment in which nonprofits operate and explore the ethical management methods required for this sector. Courses deliver skills in fundraising, resource development, program management, marketing and communication, media strategies, and government/nonprofit collaboration. 

Program Benefits

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What Careers Can You Pursue with the Online Nonprofit Leadership and Management Certificate? 

There are more than 300,000 nonprofit organizations in the United States, all of which depend on effective leaders to meet mission-based goals and make a positive impact.1

When you complete the Nonprofit Leadership and Management Certificate, you will be equipped to meet the fast-growing demand for skilled employees in the nonprofit sector. You’ll also be prepared to take the lead in management roles and develop professionally within your current or future organization. 

In-Demand Nonprofit Management and Leadership Careers

  • Nonprofit Executive Director

    $115,323

    per year2

  • Fundraising Manager

    $123,480

    per year3

No Application Fee for Spring 2026

For a limited time, we’re waiving the application fee for this certificate for the Summer 2026 term*. It’s our way of saying we believe in your potential and want to make it easier for you to take that next big step. Don’t miss this opportunity—apply now and invest in your future! Waivers must be requested before applying. Speak with a Student Engagement Specialist today!

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What are the Required Nonprofit Leadership Courses? 

7-Week Course Terms | 9 Total Credits 

The online Nonprofit Leadership and Management Certificate requires completion of three courses, all taught by expert faculty members who apply their professional experience in each lesson. With their support, you’ll build career-ready skills tailored to the unique aspects of the nonprofit sector. 

Nonprofit Leadership and Management Certificate Courses 

  • MPA 5660 – Strategic Communication and Outreach for Nonprofit Management
  • MPA 5680 – Nonprofit Financial Management and Resource Development
  • MPA 5890 – Nonprofit Leadership and Governance 

View Certificate Requirements in the Academic Catalog

What are the Admission Requirements for the Online Certificate in Nonprofit Leadership? 

Summer 2026:

  • Application Deadline: 4/13/2026
  • Classes Begin: 5/11/2026

To be considered for admission, you must submit the following:  

Online ApplicationApply now
Application Fee$35
Required DegreeBachelor's degree from a regionally accredited university
Minimum GPA3.0
TranscriptsOfficial transcripts from all institutions attended
Additional RequirementsCurrent resume

International students should note that an I-20 cannot be issued based on admission to this program. 

What is the Tuition for the Online Nonprofit Leadership Certificate? 

$7,326 Total Tuition (Resident) | $814 Per Credit (Resident) | Scholarships Available 

Cost per credit hour

$814 (Ohio resident)

$836 (non-resident)

Total credit hours9
Total estimated cost, minus fees

$7,326 (Ohio resident)

$7,524 (non-resident)

Other costs to budget forYou may have costs in addition to tuition, such as textbooks, supplies and fees. Take these into consideration as you budget for your program.

Listed tuition is for estimating purposes only and is subject to change.

Scholarships

OHIO is committed to offering affordable, competitive tuition and has been recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a best-value university for the fourth consecutive year. In addition, veterans, active-duty military members, alumni, and corporate partners are automatically eligible for a 15% incentive tuition scholarship. Depending on your background, costs and credit hours will differ.

In addition, there are multiple scholarship opportunities available to current students in the Voinovich School of Leadership and Public Service.  

  • Online Learning at OHIO

    Ohio University has a long tradition of offering online programs specifically designed for the modality and created for working professionals. Our online students complete engaging, comprehensive coursework that combines the academic excellence and experience-based learning of a traditional program with all the flexibility and convenience of online study.

    With asynchronous courses and part-time scheduling (one course per seven weeks), you can earn your degree while maintaining your current work and personal commitments. Virtual office hours give you the opportunity to connect with peers and faculty. Access your coursework 24/7 and complete your assignments on a schedule that fits your life.

What Will Students Learn in the Online Nonprofit Leadership and Management Certificate Program?

By enrolling in the online Certificate in Nonprofit Leadership and Management program, you’re choosing to build the essential skills demanded by today’s nonprofit organizations. The curriculum explores the size and scope of the field to ensure you gain a strong understanding of the regulatory environment in which nonprofits operate, empowering you to flourish as a leader in a role that will make a positive impact. 

Upon completion of this certificate program, you will be able to: 

  • Explain the managerial and ethical considerations that are unique to working in the nonprofit sector.
  • Develop and implement a communications plan that strategically promotes mission-related goals and objectives.
  • Assess current trends in the nonprofit sector and how they impact nonprofit management.
  • Apply fundraising strategies that are effective in meeting organizational needs and objectives 

Learn From Leading Experts

As a student, you'll benefit from:

  • Low student-to-teacher ratio
  • Personalized attention and support from expert faculty
  • Lectures from faculty who are passionate about their fields of study
  • A practical skillset for the nonprofit sector
  • Collaborative opportunities with peers and faculty members 

Faculty Spotlight

Paul Valentine

MPA Assistant Professor of Instruction

Paul Valentine received a Master of Public Administration from the University of Arkansas in 2013. He completed his doctorate at the University of Oklahoma in 2018, after which he served as an instructor on the University of Oklahoma's Tulsa campus for four years. During his time at Oklahoma, Valentine also collaborated with charitable foundations and worked in the provost's office as a data analyst for the student retention team, during which the university achieved record-high undergraduate student retention. He has been an assistant professor of instruction at the Voinovich School since 2022, where he teaches across all three modalities of the MPA program and the Nonprofit Leadership and Management Certificate.

Read More About Professor Valentine

Paul Valentine

Related Programs

  • Online Master of Public Administration

    With a comprehensive curriculum including multiple concentrations, the online Master of Public Administration program provides the skills and knowledge to excel in diverse public administration roles. Learn the intricacies of public and nonprofit administration through a pragmatic approach grounded in real-world application.

    Learn More About the Online MPA

  • Executive Master of Public Administration

    Designed for professionals with a bachelor's degree and at least three years of working experience, the hybrid Executive Master of Public Administration provides disciplinary knowledge of public policy and administration, public service and leadership, and data management and applications.

    Learn More About the Executive MPA

  • One-Year MPA

    The campus-based Master of Public Administration program combines theory and in-person development for those who seek career experience. Gain hands-on skills through an applied learning practicum, approved internships and consulting experiences.

    Learn More About the 1-YR MPA

Sources and Disclaimer

  1. Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor. Business Employment Dynamics.  “Nonprofit Sector Research Data.” Retrieved October 22, 2025, from https://www.bls.gov/bdm/nonprofits/nonprofits.htm.
  2. Salary.com. 2025 Salary Guide. “How Much Does a Nonprofit Executive Director Make in the United States?” Retrieved October 23, 2025, from https://www.salary.com/research/salary/posting/nonprofit-executive-director-salary.
  3. Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor. Occupational Outlook Handbook. “Public Relations and Fundraising Managers.” Retrieved October 23, 2025, from https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/public-relations-managers.htm#tab-5. 

*Please note we cannot grant fee waivers to applicants that have already submitted an application in our system. You must request your fee waiver by speaking with a Student Engagement Specialist AFTER creating your account and BEFORE submitting your application. No refunds will be made to students requesting a fee waiver after they have submitted an application.