Strong leaders know there is no finish line when it comes to learning. Leadership requires courage, curiosity, focus and adaptability — all while motivating and empowering others to do and be their best. Yet today, half of nonprofit leaders say they lack the knowledge, experience or resources necessary to be successful (Source: ProInspire). As a nonprofit organization that exists to support and build the capacity of other nonprofits, the Nonprofit Leadership Center is working to change that.
Through our Certificate in Leadership and Certificate in Nonprofit Management programs, nonprofit professionals can take their skills to new heights while strengthening their organizations and communities. But what is the difference between the two programs and how do you know which is right for you or your team members? Let’s take a closer look at each program’s purpose, program and requirements.
Choosing the Nonprofit Certificate Program That’s Right For You
| Certificate in Leadership | Certificate in Nonprofit Management | |
|---|---|---|
| EXPERIENCE | For new leaders who have fewer than three years of experience managing people or programs | For experienced leaders who are on or are aspiring to be on the senior leadership team at a nonprofit |
| LENGTH | 10 weeks (5 sessions + coaching) |
15 months (four one-week courses + project-based follow-up learning) |
| PROGRAM FOCUS | Non-graduate level program with a significant focus on leadership | Formal graduate-level program through the University of Tampa with a significant focus on leadership and management |
| CURRICULUM |
Emotional intelligence Conscious leadership Data-driven decision making Cultivating effective teams Facilitated leadership conversation |
Thinking strategically Marketing, research and communications Financial management Leadership and innovation |
| COACHING | Formal group coaching and individual coaching | Informal coaching and mentoring |
| SELECTION PROCESS | Participants must be nominated by a leader and then complete an application | Participants must apply through the University of Tampa’s formal application process (no nomination required) |
| REQUIREMENTS TO GRADUATE | Attend all sessions and complete all courses | Create and present a nonprofit business plan to a committee of leaders |
| COST | $400 (A reduced fee thanks to generous support from Florida Blue) |
$7,860 + books and parking; $3,930 with a scholarship (Fees based on 2020-21 costs) |
| WHERE TO LEARN MORE | https://nlctb.org/certificate-programs/leadership/ | https://nlctb.org/certificate-in-nonprofit-management/ |
Investing in your personal and professional development is one of the most significant ways to strengthen your nonprofit and your community. Learn more about all our certificate programs and begin the first step in your career journey today.