Graduate Certificate in Nonprofit Management

Graduate

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Advance your career and amplify your impact

Simmons University’s Nonprofit Management Certificate builds the leadership, financial, and fundraising skills you need to excel in mission-driven organizations and take your career in the nonprofit sector to the next level.

Why study nonprofit management?

At Simmons, you’ll gain the leadership, financial, and strategic skills to make a lasting impact in mission-driven organizations.

You’ll learn from experienced faculty and a community of changemakers who share your passion for creating positive, sustainable change

Build the expertise today’s nonprofits need

The Nonprofit Management Certificate at Simmons will prepare you to:

  • Lead teams, boards, and organizations with confidence and purpose
  • Understand budgeting, accounting, and strategic financial planning
  • Align programs and resources to maximize impact
  • Engage stakeholders and partners to advance your mission

Where the Nonprofit Management Certificate can take your career

The certificate will allow you to thrive, enabling you to:

  • Step into leadership roles such as program director, executive director, or department manager.
  • Build strong donor relationships and develop effective fundraising strategies.
  • Oversee programs and teams with enhanced financial and organizational insight.
  • Launch or expand your own nonprofit to meet community needs.
  • Influence policy, funding priorities, and organizational direction.
  • Pursue roles in grant management, community engagement, or nonprofit consulting.

Have questions about the MSM program? 

Christina Ramey, Director of Graduate Programs, is here to help.

Get clear, personalized answers about admissions, the curriculum, and how Simmons can support your goals.

Core Courses (9 credits)

All certificate students will complete the following three (3) core courses.

MSMG430 Leading and Managing an Effective Non-Profit Organization 3
MSMG431 Financial & Accounting for Non-Profit 3
MSMG432 Philanthropy and Fundraising in the Nonprofit Sector 3

Applied Learning Project or Elective (3 credits)

Students who choose to opt out of the Applied Learning Project would instead complete an elective course, selected in consultation with the program director.

Upcoming Information Sessions

Management Student sitting at computer

School of Management Info Session

  • Oct 1, 2026
  • 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm
  • Virtual
Two students working together on laptops in library

School of Management Info Session

  • Nov 12, 2026
  • 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm
  • Virtual
Student working on laptop

School of Management Info Session

  • Dec 10, 2026
  • 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm
  • Virtual