Graduate Certificate in Nonprofit Management

Graduate Certificate

The Graduate Certificate in Nonprofit Management prepares students to become innovative and critical thinkers in the areas of nonprofit organizational management and public policy, with a unique approach that bridges theoretical knowledge with real-world experience.

The Program at a Glance

School: School of Public Affairs Campus: CU Denver Classroom: Online and on campus classes Recommended completion time: 1 Year Credits required for completion: 12 Maximum transfer credits: 0 Maximum credits per year: In most cases, students wishing to take more than 18 credit hours per semester (12 in the summer session) must have the overload approved by the dean. Application deadline: Fall: August 1; Spring: December 1; Summer: May 1

The Details

As students prepare for their careers or advancement in their current positions, they gain insight into the interdependence between the nonprofit, public and for-profit sectors. Graduates are able to span the boundaries of these three sectors to assess community needs, navigate the realm of public policy, and strategically and effectively manage organizations that ultimately benefit society.

Students who pursue the certificate in nonprofit management also have the option to earn the nationally recognized Certified Nonprofit Professional (CNP) credential through the Nonprofit Leadership Alliance. 

Review CU Denver's Academic Policies.

Program requirements

  • The Graduate Nonprofit Management Certificate requires 12 credit hours of coursework.
  • Students must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0, with a minimum grade of B- in each course.

Required courses

Students must complete the course below, for a total of 3 credit hours. All course descriptions can be found in the Graduate Academic Catalog.

  • PUAD 5110 - Seminar in Nonprofit Management (3 credit hours)

Elective courses

In addition to the required courses, students must complete three elective courses, which have been approved by their advisor, for a total of 9 credit hours. All course descriptions can be found in the Graduate Academic Catalog.

Admissions Requirements

View the admissions requirements for the School of Public Affairs.

Events for prospective students

Which MPA is Right for Me? (Webinar)
| 12:00 PM - 01:00 PM
Cost/fee: Free
During this one-hour webinar, you will learn about the School of Public Affairs' three different versions of the Master of Public Administration program (i.e. traditional, executive, accelerated). Specifically, we will discuss structural, curricular, and cost similarities and differences. You will have the opportunity to submit questions throughout the presentation.
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