Online Professional Fundraising Certificate
Shape the Future of
Philanthropy as a Fundraiser
Request Brochure
Request Information
To download a program brochure and learn more about Boston University’s online Professional Fundraising Certificate Program, please fill out the form. You can also contact an enrollment advisor directly by calling (857) 971-4728.
My goal in this program was to prepare for the CFRE exam. Last week, after twenty years as a professional fundraiser and nine years of having my CFRE application sitting open and uncompleted—I took the exam and passed with flying colors.
Tamara O’Neil, Vice President of Institutional Advancement, Brookings
About the Certificate
Become the expert your organization needs with the Professional Fundraising Certificate. This comprehensive online fundraising program from Boston University empowers you to navigate the evolving landscape of philanthropy and attract the donors who will make a difference.
Designed and taught by senior development officers, our online fundraising program offers an in-depth curriculum with a focus on inclusivity. In a feature unique to BU, you’ll also receive personalized feedback and one-on-one guidance from a mentor in the field. Prepare to work toward fundraising certification through CFRE, take on new responsibilities, and advance in your career.
Course topics:
- Prospect Research
- Annual Giving
- Development Communications
- Major Gifts
- Planned Giving
- Foundations and Corporations
- Capital Campaigns
- Support Services
- Volunteer Leadership
- Management and Accountability
Course Breakdown
With a blend of asynchronous video content, live sessions, and peer discussions, this flexible online program is perfect for busy professionals. Over twelve weeks, you’ll gain a thorough understanding of philanthropy, including areas such as planned giving, volunteer leadership, and capital campaigns. From support services to nonprofit leadership training, our comprehensive fundraising education prepares learners for professional success.
Throughout the Professional Fundraising Certificate, you’ll be matched with a volunteer mentor, allowing you to learn fundraising techniques from an insider’s perspective. Your mentor will provide personalized feedback, serve as a sounding board for your professional development, and work with you to maximize your impact on the field of philanthropy.
By the time you complete this fundraising certificate program, you will have a portfolio that demonstrates your expertise in real-world scenarios. In addition, our curriculum fulfills the continuing education requirement for CFRE International, paving the way to new opportunities as a certified professional.
Who Can Benefit from Fundraising Professional Development?
The Professional Fundraising Certificate builds valuable skills that are applicable to a variety of career stages and needs. Those who can benefit include:
- Aspiring fundraisers: Gain the knowledge and skills to launch your career in development.
- Current development professionals: Deepen your expertise, work toward CFRE International certification, and advance to new roles.
- Volunteer leaders: Use fundraising education to better serve your organization.
About Boston University
How to Get Started
There are three starts per year: January, May, and September. This fundraising program takes place over twelve weeks, with an estimated time commitment of seven to ten hours* per week.
Fill out the form to download a brochure and discover more about the online Professional Fundraising Certificate, including details on tuition and curriculum structure.
*This time commitment is based on individual knowledge and experience in the field.
State Authorization & Distance Education
Boston University participates in the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA), allowing it to offer distance education in SARA-member states. For details on state authorization, complaint resolution, and licensure programs, visit the State Authorization & Distance Education website.
