Online Professional Fundraising Program
Make a Lasting Impact as a Skilled Fundraiser
Request BrochureRequest Information
To download a program brochure and learn more about Boston University’s online Professional Fundraising 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 Fundraising Program
Transform your fundraising approach for lasting change and measurable results. This comprehensive online fundraising program equips you to thrive in a changing fundraising world and create lasting connections. Become a more effective, inclusive, and informed fundraiser whose work truly supports communities and causes.
Professional Expertise Meets Practical Education
Designed and taught by senior development officers, our online fundraising program offers an in-depth curriculum along with live sessions and one-on-one mentoring. From support services and nonprofit leadership training to recent developments in AI and technology, our fundraising education covers it all.
Course topics:
- Prospect Research
- Annual Giving
- Development Communications
- Major Gifts
- Planned Giving
- Foundations and Corporations
- Capital Campaigns
- Support Services
- Volunteer Leadership
- Management and Accountability
Learning That Fits Your Schedule and Transforms Your Work
With fully online, asynchronous assignments, you’ll gain practical insights that you can apply immediately to your organization’s fundraising goals or carry with you into future roles.
Engage, Network, and Grow in the Fundraising Community
Each week, you’re invited to join live sessions to connect with instructors, fundraising experts, and classmates. Our one-on-one mentoring program also provides personalized guidance.
Get Closer to Your CFRE Credential
Planning to earn your Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) credential? Boston University’s program fulfills the education requirement and gives you the core knowledge and skills to confidently prepare for fundraising certification through the CFRE exam.
Who Can Benefit from Fundraising Professional Development?
The Professional Fundraising Certificate welcomes learners of all levels and goals.
- Aspiring fundraisers: Gain the knowledge and skills to launch your career in development.
- Current development professionals: Expand your expertise, work toward CFRE International certification, and advance to new roles.
- Leaders and board members: Acquire a deeper understanding of the full fundraising lifecycle and the valuable work carried out by your team.
About Boston University
Program Format and Next Steps
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. If you’re ready to register, start here.
Fill out the form to download a brochure and learn details about registration, the curriculum, tuition, and more.
*This time commitment is based on individual knowledge and experience in the field.