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SCS Home  >  PDP  >  Non-Credit  >  Philanthropy and Nonprofit Fundraising

Philanthropy and Nonprofit Fundraising Professional Development Program

Once optional in the philanthropy industry, organizational and financial know-how has become essential. Since philanthropic giving is generally dependent on economic conditions and donor wishes, would-be fundraisers must be able to adapt their plans to varying types of environments and individuals.

The Philanthropy and Nonprofit Fundraising program from Northwestern University's School of Continuing Studies (SCS) provides members of philanthropic institutions, foundations, and other non-profit organizations, with an understanding of the most effective strategies for fulfilling their charitable visions. The program focuses on the principles and practices of development, fundraising, and giving for various types of non-profit organizations, including those concerned with education, health, culture, and organized faith.

Program Audience

SCS offers education for the adult community. The program is designed for those seeking to advance their careers as non-profit fundraising professionals; career-changers currently in the for-profit sector who are considering non-profit sector employment; recent graduates of public policy or business administration degree programs; and institution board members and volunteers seeking a foundational understanding of fundraising and philanthropy.

Learning Goals

Starting with an overview of the theories and motivations for charitable giving, the program also addresses the current challenges facing fundraising and development offices. To earn a Certificate of Completion in Philanthropy and Nonprofit Fundraising, students must successfully complete the following three courses:

Through lectures and discussions with Chicago fundraising leaders, students gain practical knowledge and experience in the following areas:

  • American philanthropy history and its importance today
  • A professional fundraiser's role, plus how to manage volunteers and staff
  • Finding sources that match an organization's mission, and the range of methods necessary to secure that revenue
  • Relationships between major gifts and other standard fundraising processes

Upon successful completion of all three courses, students will earn a certificate of completion from Northwestern's School of Continuing Studies. Students usually move through the program as a cohort; however, classes also may be taken individually and out of sequence. While not a requirement for the certificate, an understanding of the grant proposal writing process is a fundamental skill for all fundraising professionals. Participants interested in learning how to tailor and write a grant proposal may consider attending the Grant Proposal Writing course.

Custom Programs

The School of Continuing Studies works with corporate partners to develop custom Philanthropy and Nonprofit Fundraising programs to meet their specific needs. This program can be held at your company location.

Northwestern Excellence

  • Northwestern University is a preeminent university recognized internationally as a hallmark of academic excellence.
  • School of Continuing Studies programs provide students with exceptional opportunities for intellectual, professional and personal growth.
  • SCS instructors bring outstanding academic credentials and relevant professional experience to the classroom to create a highly interactive, collaborative, and challenging learning environment.
  • SCS students study with peers who have rich, diverse backgrounds and can provide lifelong learning connections.

Course Information

Registration information and detailed course descriptions can be found on the course listings page. Schedules, content and prices are subject to change.