Graduate Certificate in Nonprofit Management (CNPM)
A graduate credential for effective leadership in the nonprofit sectorThe CNPM is a 12-hour graduate certificate that prepares the next generation of nonprofit leaders, covering the foundations, management, and leadership of nonprofit organizations. Built for working professionals, it can be completed online, on campus, or in a combination, and the hours can count toward a Bush School master's degree.
Program at a Glance
- Credential
Graduate Certificate in Nonprofit Management
- Credit Hours
12 (4 courses)
- Duration
Up to 24 months
- Format
Online, College Station, or a combination
- Areas of Emphasis
Optional (noted on the certificate)
- Stackable
Hours may count toward a Bush School master’s degree
About the Program
For anyone working with nonprofits or moving into the sector, the CNPM builds the skills to lead and manage nonprofit organizations effectively. Taught by acclaimed faculty alongside working professionals.
Curriculum
The CNPM requires 12 credit hours (four courses) at a GPA of 3.0 or higher. Two required core courses, Foundations of the Nonprofit Sector and Management and Leadership of Nonprofit Organizations, plus two more chosen as electives or within an emphasis.
View the CNPM in the Texas A&M CatalogAreas of Emphasis
Choosing an area of emphasis is optional, but it can strengthen your credential: the emphasis is noted on your certificate, signaling focused expertise to employers. Students who select an emphasis complete two core courses and two emphasis-specific courses within their chosen area. You can earn multiple emphases by completing additional coursework.
- Fundraising & Philanthropy
For careers in development, fundraising, and donor relations.
- Leadership & Management
For careers leading and managing nonprofit organizations.
- Fiscal & Performance Management
For careers in nonprofit finance, budgeting, and performance.
- International NGOs
For careers with international nongovernmental organizations.
- Health & Human Service Policy
For careers in health and human services organizations.
Where & How You’ll Study
Complete the CNPM fully online, on campus at College Station, or in any combination. Online courses run over fifteen-week fall and spring and ten-week summer semesters; on-campus seats can fill quickly, since priority goes to degree-seeking master’s students.
Online
Complete the certificate from anywhere. Online courses run over fifteen-week fall and spring semesters and ten-week summer semesters, with regular online discussion.
College Station
Take courses on campus, typically meeting once a week. On-campus seats can fill quickly, since priority goes to degree-seeking master’s students.
Explore Further
Stack Toward a Degree
CNPM hours can transfer toward the EMPSA’s Nonprofit Management track or an MPSA.
Explore Master’s ProgramsFaculty
The CNPM is taught by the same acclaimed PSAA faculty as our master’s programs.
PSAA Faculty DirectoryCost & Funding
Financial aid, scholarships, and veteran’s benefits are available. Online courses are priced differently. See the certificate Cost & Funding details.
Explore CNPM Cost & FundingReady to Apply?
Admission is required before classes begin. See requirements and instructions on the admissions page.
How to Apply