Open to any undergraduate student and all UT faculty and staff.
Earning your CNP credential will help jumpstart your career. It’s not just a milestone; it’s a commitment to fostering positive change in our communities.
Why get a CNP credential?
- It’s the only nationally recognized credential in nonprofit management that provides learning and real-world experience.
- The CNP credential on your resume quickly signals employers you’ve got what it takes to be a leader at their organization.
- Professional Network: Gain access to CNP Central—a hub for students and professionals that includes nonprofit content, job postings, internships, and peer connections nationwide.
- Discounts: Enjoy discounted rates for conferences (virtual and in-person) and professional development webinars.
Learn more about the CNP at nla1.org.
How do I start?
Take SOWK 465
This course offers valuable insights into nonprofit structures, operations, and leadership, making it ideal for individuals passionate about creating positive change in their communities.
SOWK 465 is ideal for anyone who:
- Aspires to Serve on a Nonprofit Board: Gain the knowledge and skills needed to contribute effectively to nonprofit governance, regardless of your profession.
- Dreams of Running a Nonprofit: Learn the fundamentals of nonprofit management and leadership to turn your vision into reality.
- Wants to Donate Thoughtfully: Understand how nonprofits operate, enabling you to make informed decisions about where and how to allocate your resources for maximum impact.
- Gain your CNP credential: SOWK 465 is the first step in earning your CNP credential
Steps to Earn Your CNP Credential
Complete SOWK 465: Non-profit Management and Leadership
- 3 Credit Hours
- Enroll in and complete SOWK 465, which focuses on nonprofit management, leadership, communication, marketing, public relations, and culturally responsive practices.
- This course lays the groundwork for understanding nonprofit operations and prepares you for further requirements.
- The $100 course fee for SOWK 465 includes the NLA membership fee, which is a one-time payment that grants lifetime membership.
Volunteer Service Requirement
- Complete 20 hours of volunteer service at a nonprofit organization.
- This can include participation in student groups or other community-based initiatives.
- Consideration will be given to retroactively count volunteer service hours.
Professional Nonprofit Experience
- Accumulate 120 hours of paid or unpaid professional experience at a nonprofit organization.
- Combine internships, job shadowing, or other practical experiences to meet this requirement.
Attend a Relevant Conference
- Attend a national or regional conference related to the nonprofit sector.
- The annual virtual conference, Elevate, can fulfill this requirement.
- The College of Social Work’s annual eVOLve conference can also fulfill this requirement
Bachelor’s Degree
- Obtain a bachelor’s degree
Pass the CNP Exam
- Prepare using the CNP Competencies Outcomes Rubric, which is based on Bloom’s Taxonomy of Learning Domains and validated by hiring needs in the nonprofit sector.
- The exam covers 10 core competencies:
- Communication, Marketing, and Public Relations
- Financial Resource Development and Management
- Foundations and Management of the Nonprofit Sector
- Personal and Professional Development
- Volunteer and Human Resource Management
- Cultural Competency and Diversity
- Legal and Ethical Decision-Making
- Governance, Leadership, and Advocacy
- Program Development
- Future of the Nonprofit Sector
Note for Faculty and Staff
Faculty and staff at the university are encouraged to participate in the program! While they are not required to complete SOWK 465 or other coursework, they can still earn the CNP credential by meeting all other program requirements, including volunteer service, professional experience, attending a relevant conference, passing the exam, and paying the associated fee.
About The Nonprofit Leadership Alliance
The Nonprofit Leadership Alliance strengthens communities by developing talented leaders through programs such as the Certified Nonprofit Professional (CNP) credential and Leaderosity, ensuring that nonprofits have the skilled workforce needed to fulfill their missions effectively.
Ready to get started?
Take the first step by signing up for SOWK 465.
Our program is designed to equip you with the skills, knowledge, and experience needed to lead effectively in the nonprofit sector. Whether you’re a student, faculty, or staff member, we’re here to support your journey toward earning the Certified Nonprofit Professional (CNP) credential.
Contact us for help
