Executive Scholar Certificate in Nonprofit Management (2024)

A Kellogg credential that is uniquely you

The Executive Scholar Certificate in Nonprofit Management is designed to help nonprofit leaders like you develop your skill-sets, prepare you to tackle tough organizational challenges, and inspire you to drive your organization’s mission forward.

This certificate distinguishes you as a leader, is customized to your professional development goals, and confers you with Kellogg Executive Scholar benefits upon completion. It involves taking five programs of your choosing over a five year period. See below for more detailed information and how to get started.

We offer personalized advising to help you plan your path to certificate completion. Contact us to speak with our Scholar Advisor to discuss your goals.


Scholar Benefits

  • A Certificate of Professional Achievement in Nonprofit Management, including a digital certificate for your social media profile/s
  • Membership in the global Kellogg alumni network and access to the online network
  • Opportunities to participate in alumni clubs and events
  • 50% scholarships to all future Center for Nonprofit Management programs
  • 30% discount on Kellogg Executive Education open enrollment programs
  • A 15% discount on all year-long Chief Officer Programs
  • Access to cutting-edge research and thought leadership content from Kellogg faculty and leading practitioners
  • A Kellogg branded email account

How to Get Started


  1. Apply to the Kellogg Executive Scholar Certificate Program
  • Click here to submit your application (select "Nonprofit Management" from the specialization drop-down menu)
  1. This application is not binding, but helps us track your progress toward earning a Certificate
  2. You will need to apply for each program you wish to take separately
  3. You can submit this application at any point in time, and all nonprofit specific programs taken within a five year timeframe (prior to and after submitting the Certificate application) will count toward your certificate
  • Complete four Center for Nonprofit Management prerequisite programs
    • Click this link to view and register for upcoming programs. Click the + sign to expand each program’s box for a short description, and click the “Lean More” link at the bottom of the expanded program box to see the full program description and program content.
  • Apply to the Kellogg Executive Scholar Certificate Program
    1. After completing your pre-requisites, talk with a Nonprofit Scholars Advisor to select and apply for your capstone program. Click here to get in touch with a Nonprofit Scholars Advisor.
    2. This program is selected from our general portfolio of executive programs providing you the opportunity to network with and learn from leaders across sectors. It is called a capstone program as it “caps” off your Scholar Certificate.

    Pricing & Scholarships

    Overall, you can expect to pay between ~$6,500 to $12,000 depending on the program choices you make and if you apply for Center scholarships.

    • Four Center for Nonprofit Management programs - $950-1,350 list, up to 50% scholarships available when you apply to each individual program. Scholarships are assessed after submitting your application.

    • One Capstone Program - ~$4,900-$10,500 list (varies on program selection) you will receive a guaranteed 1/3 off list price scholarship.

    • This program is required to be taken last in the series.

    Frequently Asked Questions

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    Can you tell me more about program selection and timeline?

    The Scholar Certificate is designed to be extremely flexible as it is personalized to your learning goals and timeline. You have within five years of your first program to complete your remaining requirements. Go as quickly or as slowly as you would like, and select the programs that are the best fit for your professional goals. We are here to help so do reach out anytime you have any questions or if you would like advising.

    Are there any admission or academic requirements to earn the Scholar Certificate?

    There are no admission or academic requirements since all of our programs are non-degree continuing education. All of our programs are designed specifically for organizational leaders like you.

    I took a cohort-based program in partnership with the Center for Nonprofit Management. Can that be counted toward this Scholar Certificate?

    Contact our Scholar advisor to see how your previously taken cohort based program fits into your Scholar Certificate.

    For in-person programs, are accommodations included?

    Your first four Center for Nonprofit Management programs do not include accommodations. Most programs are held on our downtown Chicago campus, just off of the Magnificent Mile. Here is a list of nearby hotels.

    However, most "capstone" programs include room and board in the list price.


    Contact Us

    Questions about which Center for Nonprofit Management programs are right for you? Please contact us at nonprofit@kellogg.northwestern.edu. We look forward to helping you in your lifelong-learning journey.


    Executive Scholar Certificate in Nonprofit Management (2024)

    FAQs

    Is a certificate in nonprofit management worth it? ›

    Benefits of Obtaining a Nonprofit Management Certificate

    Gain a general understanding of nonprofit leadership and what it entails. Increase their advancement or hiring potential. Enhance their resume. Expand their professional network.

    What is an executive education certificate? ›

    Executive education is topic-based, intensive academic programming for professionals and business executives designed to improve their business, management, and leadership skills. Universities offer executive education courses, however executive education does not count towards a degree or award credits.

    Is a masters in nonprofit management worth it? ›

    You do not need a professional-level degree to work for nonprofit organizations, but a master's in nonprofit leadership can help you earn more, while flexible online degree programs (like those at Pacific) adapt to your life and schedule.

    What is the best certification for a non-profit organization? ›

    The CNP credential is the only nationally recognized credential in nonprofit management that provides learning and real world experience.

    What degree is best for nonprofit work? ›

    Courses on business law and administration, human resource management, finance, and economics provide analytical skills necessary for the support roles within an NPO, where you'll become a viable resource for program support, community engagement, and volunteer engagement.

    Are executive certificate programs worth it? ›

    Benefits: Expand business knowledge and skills: Executive education offers an efficient path for learning new skills or brushing up old ones. Build professional credibility: The knowledge and insight gained from a business certificate boost your confidence and credibility.

    Is executive education the same as MBA? ›

    What is the primary difference between executive education programs and an MBA? A. While an MBA doesn't typically have specific age criteria for when you can do it, executive education programs are specifically structured and curated for senior professionals.

    Do you need a degree to be an executive? ›

    Expand your knowledge with a business degree

    Gaining the right academic credentials can sometimes be the key to an executive-level role. In fact, over 40% of the CEOs of Fortune 100 companies have MBAs, and over half studied business, economics, or accounting as undergraduates.

    How do I start a nonprofit management career? ›

    How to forge your nonprofit career
    1. Pursue volunteer opportunities. ...
    2. Pursue leadership positions. ...
    3. Complete education. ...
    4. Choose a focus. ...
    5. Expand your professional network. ...
    6. Earn certifications. ...
    7. Apply for a job with a nonprofit organization.
    Jul 30, 2024

    Is an MBA worth it for nonprofit? ›

    Is an M.B.A. useful for nonprofits? Earning an M.B.A. is beneficial for nonprofits. An M.B.A. in nonprofit management equips you with a variety of business competencies and industry-focused skills needed to manage a nonprofit organization.

    Why study non-profit management? ›

    Nonprofit management master's programs suit students looking to advance or pivot their existing careers. Graduate students can develop the leadership and management skills to lead nonprofit organizations at the local, national and global levels.

    Is the certified nonprofit professional certification worth it? ›

    The CNP is the only nationally recognized credential in nonprofit management that showcases learning and real-world experience. The CNP means you will perform better in your job and be 7x more likely to lead in the workplace.

    Is a certificate in management worth it? ›

    Holding a certificate in leadership and management can demonstrate to employers, colleagues, and clients that you have knowledge and expertise in your field. While it may help you gain more success in your current role, it may also help you become more competitive on the job market.

    Is nonprofit development a good career? ›

    Development is one of the best-compensated areas of the nonprofit world, and this fast-growing field is worth your consideration.

    Are certificates of achievement worth it? ›

    A certificate can prepare you to advance in your career, or to gain the extra knowledge needed to stay competitive and up-to-date in your field. Completion of the certificate demonstrates evidence of specialized education achievement.

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