About this Program
The essence of fundraising is identifying people whose values align with your mission or organization and establishing lasting relationships with them. Success in this continually evolving field requires the right combination of key skills and proven strategies and tactics.
In this certificate program, you’ll learn to use both traditional and emerging fundraising and relationship-building techniques in ways that produce results. We’ll delve into who gives and what motivates giving, and examine the latest research, best practices and ethical standards from experts in the development profession. Acquire the knowledge, experience and connections to become a dynamic fundraiser.
▸ Related Article: How to Become a Fundraiser
DESIGNED FOR
Fundraising professionals as well as those interested in entering the field.
See Requirements
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
To apply, you must have:
- Two years of college or work experience
- One month work or volunteer experience with a nonprofit organization
Time Commitment
Including time in class, you should expect to spend about 5 to 7 hours each week on coursework.
English Proficiency
If English is not your native language, you should have at least intermediate English skills to enroll. To learn more, see English Language Proficiency Requirements – Noncredit Programs.
International Students
To enroll, international students must have a visa that permits study in the United States. This program does not enable students to obtain or maintain F-1 visa status. For more information, see Admission Requirements for International Students.
Technology Requirements
- Access to a computer with a recent operating system and web browser
- High-speed internet connection
- Headset and webcam (recommended)
Earning the Certificate
You earn the certificate by adhering to the program's attendance policy and successfully completing all required courses. For more information, see Earning the Certificate.
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
- Prospect identification, cultivation and solicitation using a variety of methods and channels
- How to formulate a major gifts strategy
- Technology tools and approaches for integrating communications, events and fundraising efforts
- How to interpret financial statements and create a sustainable budget
- Ways to build a culture of philanthropy throughout an organization
GET HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE
- Write funding appeals and simple grant proposals
- Craft donor-centered communications for print and online distribution
- Assess an existing organization’s fundraising strategy and create a development plan that engages board, staff and volunteers
PREPARE FOR CERTIFICATION
This program covers material worth 30.0 points in Category 1.B – Education that can be applied toward initial certification or recertification as a Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE).
APPLY FOR A SCHOLARSHIP
You may be eligible to apply for a UW Certificate Scholarship or Rotary Scholarship to cover most of the costs of this program. Scholarships are awarded based on financial need and the potential of the program to positively impact your career. For more information, see the Scholarships page.
Career Stats
73%
Alumni working in field
Top Employers
University of Washington, Pacific Scientific Company, Swedish Health Services, various Northwest nonprofit organizations
32%
Projected job growth for fundraising managers in Washington state (2018-2028)
$129,930
Average salary for fundraising managers in Washington state
OUR ENROLLMENT COACHES ARE HERE TO HELP
Want more info about this offering? Connect with an enrollment coach to learn more. Or if you need help finding the right certificate program or course for you, reach out to explore your options.