Graduate Certificate in Fundraising Management
Many nonprofit organizations today face challenging financial circumstances. Reduced government and foundation support, increased competition among nonprofits and the private sector, and general economic uncertainty have all played a role in creating an environment of financial instability. As the number of nonprofits grows, and the market drives organizations to be self-sustaining and accountable, fundraising has emerged as a strategic institutional need. To help address this need, Boston University’s Metropolitan College offers a Graduate Certificate in Fundraising Management. School of Theology students in the MDiv and MTS degree programs may take a sequence of four courses through Metropolitan College (MET), which count as part of their STH required coursework, in order to earn the Graduate Certificate in Fundraising Management.
Designed and delivered by the expert faculty of the Department of Arts Administration, the Graduate Certificate in Fundraising Management provides administrative, financial, technical, and leadership skills for those seeking careers as professional fundraisers and for nonprofit managers who wish to substantially enhance their skills in fundraising. The certificate is also appropriate for professionals in the arts, health care, education, and human services fields.
Certificate students have access to all the resources of the department and the University, including internship and job placement services.
A student may take up to two courses before admission to the Fundraising Certificate, but must apply and be accepted to the program prior to the completion of the second course. The four courses required are:
MET AR 550 Raising Funds and Grant Writing for Nonprofit Organizations (Fall)
An introductory course that examines ways to raise funds from government, foundation, corporate, and individual sources. The following topics will be addressed through lectures and case analysis: the history of philanthropy, the planning and research process, proposal and grant preparation, program evaluation, and the role of the board and staff in developing effective fundraising strategies. [4 credits]
MET AR 750 Financial Management for Nonprofits (Fall and Spring)
Analyzes issues of accounting, finance, and economics in the context of the not-for-profit organization. Stresses understanding financial statements, budget planning and control, cash flow analysis, and long term planning. [4 credits]
MET AR 711 Capital Campaigns (Summer)
This course is designed to broaden the student’s understanding of capital campaign fundraising. Topics include: feasibility studies; strategic planning and budgeting; private and public phases; ethical responsibilities; staff, donor, volunteer, board, and trustee management; major gift solicitation; campaign communications; trend analysis; and evaluation. The course curriculum will include readings, case studies, guest speakers, and analysis of current capital campaign projects. [4 credits ]
MET AR 711 Individual Fundraising (Spring)
This course will address the full range of issues related to attracting financial support from individuals. Topics will include: raising dollars annually for operations, raising funds through special events (‘fundraisers’), cultivating and soliciting major gifts, and the basics of bequests and estate planning as well as ethical issues and working effectively with donors and volunteers. Course work will include readings, case studies, and guest speakers. [4 credits]
For more information about the certificate, visit the MET website.
