Advanced Certificate in Nonprofit Administration

The certificate in Nonprofit Administration provides students with an introduction to core aspects of management and leadership in the nonprofit sector. The course of study emphasizes an introduction to essential aspects of nonprofit management, an overview of current policy and management issues, the development of analytical skills critical to effective work in the nonprofit sector and specialized course work in an aspect of management (such as strategy development or grants management).

The Certificate Program is geared to two types of students: individuals currently working in the nonprofit sector and students in master's degree programs.

For individuals currently working in the nonprofit sector, the certificate program provides an opportunity to develop a broader understanding of the nonprofit sector and management practices. The certificate program supplements the practical knowledge students have gained from work experience, with an introduction to theory, empirical research, skills and best practices.

For individuals currently enrolled in master's degree programs, the certificate in nonprofit management is appropriate for those who foresee using their master's degree to pursue a career in the nonprofit sector. The certificate program provides management and leadership training to complement the professional knowledge students acquire in their course of study for the master's degree.

Related Graduate Program

• Master's in Public Administration (MPA)

Application Deadline

The certificate application deadline is rolling.

Admission Requirements*

Applicants must submit the Graduate School's required admission materials:

• Online graduate degree application and application fee
• Official transcript(s) from each college/university at which you earned a degree (Current Binghamton University graduate students or individuals also applying to a master's or doctoral program at Binghamton University do not need to submit transcripts with their certificate application.)

Important note: Funding is not available to non-degree students completing certificate programs. Certificate students are not automatically admitted to master's or doctoral programs. They must meet the admissions requirements of those degree programs and be accepted. Students may concurrently apply for a certificate and a Binghamton University graduate degree program. However, a student cannot be awarded a certificate twice, nor can a student apply work for one certificate to a different certificate. Learn more about graduate certificate programs.

Additional Application Materials

• Resume
• One-page personal statement that addresses why you are interested in the program
• A letter of recommendation from a professor or professional colleague (such as a supervisor or executive director of a nonprofit organization) who can evaluate your suitability for the Certificate program

Application materials will be reviewed in total to assess whether applicants bring the necessary skills and experiences to succeed in the program.

Applicant Qualifications

Applicants not already enrolled in the MPA Program must meet the following criteria:

1. A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university
2. An undergraduate grade point average of 3.0

Prospective students who do not hold or are not currently enrolled in a master's degree program must have two or more years of experience as a volunteer or paid staff member in local government.

*This information is subject to change. While we make every effort to keep it accurate and up-to-date, we recommend you contact the department for program-specific requirements.