Nonprofit Management

Associate Certificate Part-time School of Business + Media

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Overview

The Nonprofit Management Associate Certificate focuses on developing unique leadership skills for nonprofit managers, including financial management, volunteer management, marketing, government relations, fundraising, and understanding legal requirements and governance. Studying online provides flexibility to fit your schedule.

Designed for current managers and emerging leaders in charities and nonprofit organizations, this program equips you with the practical tools and strategies to improve organizational performance in one of Canada’s fastest growing sectors. Charities and nonprofits contribute over $192 billion to Canada’s economy each year, representing 8.3% of our national GDP and employing 2.4 million people (Imagine Canada). Whether you’re already working in the sector or looking to transition into it, the Nonprofit Management Associate Certificate will help you build the knowledge and confidence to lead. This program combines academic theory with hands-on learning. You’ll develop essential leadership competencies tailored to the nonprofit environment including financial management, marketing, fundraising, volunteer engagement, board governance, government relations, and legal compliance. All courses are delivered online, giving you the flexibility to study anytime, anywhere. By completing this program, you’ll gain the core skills needed to manage and support your organization while making a meaningful impact.

About the program

9-course associate certificate program
Learn core concepts of non-profit management, fundraising, marketing, and more

Visit the Program Details to learn more about how this program prepares you for a career in successfully leading and managing nonprofit organizations.

Who should complete the Nonprofit Management Associate Certificate?

This program might be right for you if:

You have experience in charitable and nonprofit organizations
You’re working in a front-line position and want to want to advance to management and leadership roles
You want a career in a sector that is emotionally rewarding, where you can make a difference

If this sounds like you, apply today at the Entrance Requirements page!

What grads can do

By earning your associate certificate at BCIT, you’ll focus on the practical skills you’ll need every day to manage a charitable or nonprofit organization. Your hands-on training here prepares you in the essentials of fundraising, legal issues, human resource management, marketing and more to help you begin or advance your career in any variety of charitable organizations.

To learn more about the opportunities awaiting you after completion, visit the Graduating and Jobs page.

Entrance Requirements

About Flexible Learning

Flexible Learning offers a variety of courses and programs in different delivery modes and locations to customize your learning at your own pace. You can review course prerequisites on our website and if you meet them, you’ll be able to register for that available course immediately. Some courses may require departmental approval or formal acceptance into the program. BCIT Flexible Learning courses are offered during the Winter (January), Spring/Summer (April), and Fall (September) terms.

Application processing

Applications are accepted throughout the year with intake options available during the following periods:

Intake	Opening date	Deadline
Winter (January)	February 1st*	Domestic students: January 2nd* International students: November 1st*
Spring/Summer (April)	May 1st*	Domestic students: April 1st* International students: February 1st*
Fall (September)	October 1st*	Domestic students: September 1st* International students: July 2nd*

*or next business day

Intakes may fill before the deadline. If you are currently registered in a course or planning to start, submit your application early to secure your spot in the program.

Entrance requirements

Applicants must meet all entrance requirements and will be accepted on a first-qualified basis as long as space remains.

English language proficiency: Category 2 – English Studies 12 (67%) or equivalent

International applicants

The blended delivery option is available to international applicants.

The online delivery option is available to international applicants who will complete the program from outside Canada or who currently have a valid status in Canada other than study permit.

Study permit: A valid BCIT study permit is required prior to starting the blended delivery program. International students completing the program fully online are not eligible for a study permit.

Post-graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility: This program does not meet the eligible field of study requirement (CIP) and is therefore not eligible for students to apply for a PGWP.

(CIPC: 52.0206)

Program declaration

Declaring your Flexible Learning (Part-time Studies) program ensures that BCIT is aware of your intent to complete a program as it is currently outlined and provides you the opportunity to apply for transfer credit.

To submit your declaration:

Answer all questions completely.
If required, convert transcripts and documents to PDF files.
Have a credit card ready to pay the application fee.

Declare Now

Upon approval, a program plan letter will be sent to you confirming your program of study. Please allow approximately eight weeks for processing.

Learn more about program declaration

Scheduled Intakes

Ongoing Flexible Learning (Part-time Studies) intakes: January, April, and September.

Costs & Supplies

Bring your own device

Most courses and programs in the School of Business + Media are BYOD (Bring Your Own Device). Please ensure you bring a laptop to every class. Plug-in outlets will be provided at most stations in classrooms, but not in all classrooms, so please ensure you have at least 2 hours of battery life available at the beginning of each class. Check the following recommended computer requirements prior to the start of class. If a program or course does not require you to provide your own device, that information will be provided by your instructor or indicated in the course outline.

For online classes, it is important you have a stable and consistent internet connection to access course content.

Tuition fees

Flexible Learning (Part-time Studies) tuition is charged on a course-by-course basis. Please see the Flexible Learning Tuition & Fees page for more information on domestic and international tuitions.

Financial assistance

Financial assistance may be available for this program. For more information, please contact Student Financial Aid and Awards.

Courses

Please note: NPMA classes are offered in online format only. NPMA 1800 and NPMA 1850 are only offered in the Fall term (September) and NPMA 1700 is only offered in the Winter term (January). Please register early to ensure a seat in the class.

The courses in this program are taught by working professionals to give you the most current techniques and knowledge for managing nonprofit organizations specifically. This focus on practical skills gives you the solid foundation you need in a variety of areas for a successful career in charitable work. Many jobs at nonprofits will fill the needs in a variety of roles, which is why you’ll learn about human resource management, government relations, marketing, fundraising, and more.

Please note: part-time programs and courses are open enrolment and although we make every effort to accommodate demand, course registration cannot be guaranteed in every semester. High demand courses fill quickly and may result in students unable to register for a course that semester. Courses may also be cancelled due to low enrolment.

Program matrix

Check current availability of courses for this program.

1. Required Courses:			Credits
	FUND 1215	Essentials of Fundraising A course designed to provide an overview of fundraising topics. The emphasis is on the grounding of fundraising in philanthropy; the principles and strategic issues of fundraising in nonprofit organizations; and the role of the development officer and fundraising. Students develop an understanding of annual fund and capital campaign methodologies, working with volunteer boards, and developing career planning strategies. Prerequisite(s): No prerequisites are required for this course. course outline	3.0
	HRMG 3105	Human Resource Management Fundamentals This course covers theory, practice and standard programs employed by human resource management practitioners in today’s private sector business, government and other organizations. The course covers the major human resource management functions with some emphasis on applied knowledge. Recommended for all persons interested in general management, HR management, and/or supervision. Prerequisite(s): No prerequisites are required for this course. course outline	4.0
	MKTG 1102	Essentials of Marketing Marketing 1102 is an introduction to the fundamentals of marketing. In addition to the "four Ps" of marketing—product, price, place, and promotion—students will be introduced to how marketers create customer-driven marketing strategies based on their research and understanding of the marketing environment and customers. Students will plan a strategy for and compete in an online marketing simulation. After the simulation, students will evaluate their performance and deliver a marketing plan for their simulation company, which will be assessed on students' application of marketing terminology and processes and in the professionalism of their work. Additionally, students will complete assignments, quizzes, and exams. Prerequisite(s): No prerequisites are required for this course. course outline	3.0
	NPMA 1700	Financial Management for Nonprofit Organizations This introductory course helps you apply financial management principles in a not-for-profit organization. It familiarizes the student with accounting essentials, the financial management cycle, budgeting, payroll, and reports and statements. You will explore regulatory compliance and issues specifically related to not-for-profits. Prior accounting knowledge is an asset, but not required. While some numerical competency is necessary together with basic spreadsheet abilities, this is not a course aimed at those wishing to embark on a career in accounting/finance, but rather a general manager hoping to gain basic fluency in fundamental principles of financial management. Prerequisite(s): No prerequisites are required for this course. course outline	3.0
	NPMA 1800	Government Relations This course focuses on strategies for nonprofit organizations to develop good relations with all levels of government (municipal, provincial and federal) in both the bureaucratic and political spheres. You will examine how organizations with good relationships in the various levels of government can have an impact on legislation and policy development that can enhance the success of your organization. More importantly, you will gain an applied understanding of how to improve your advocacy skills, including advocacy concepts for grant writing and managing regulatory compliance. Prerequisite(s): No prerequisites are required for this course. course outline	3.0
	NPMA 1850	Law and Governance This course provides an overview of the key legislation, common law and administrative policies that apply to Canadian not-for-profit organizations (NFPOs), including registered charities and societies. You will examine and apply the principles and practices relevant to incorporation of British Columbia societies and federal NFPOs, charitable registration, organizational maintenance, and good governance. This course will help you understand crucial governance processes and structures that form the foundations of effective organizations. Prerequisite(s): No prerequisites are required for this course. course outline	3.0
	ORGB 1105	Organizational Behaviour This course presents the study of factors that either influence or are influenced by people at work. Focuses on macro factors such as organizational structure, technology and environment; group factors such as group dynamics, leadership, conflict, change and decision-making; and individual factors such as personality, attitudes, perception and motivation. Prerequisite(s): No prerequisites are required for this course. course outline	4.0

2. Complete 6.0 credits from the following list of electives:			Credits
	FUND 2316	Unlocking Funding: Grants, Proposals and Sponsorships This is a practical introduction to the elements of proposal and grant writing: purpose and responsibility, organizational readiness, research, mechanics of preparation, development of a formal proposal/grant, presentation, follow-up, and post grant reporting. Students gain skills through hands-on practice identifying potential funders, and developing and refining their proposal. Prerequisite(s): No prerequisites are required for this course. course outline	3.0
	MKTG 1019	Media Relations Covers the basic media process; developing media strategy; news room realities; packaging your message; the media as messenger, interview techniques and critiques; and crisis communications. The media is a business like any other. Their product is controversy. By knowing the rules of the game, astute managers can make the media work for them. Prerequisite(s): No prerequisites are required for this course. course outline	3.0
	MKTG 1120	Event Planning Essentials This projects-based course focuses on the event industry, and fundamental components of planning and executing events. Students explore the planning, marketing, selling, producing and management of any type of event from company social functions to major conventions. To be successful in this course, students must be able to communicate well in writing, in English. Prerequisite(s): No prerequisites are required for this course. course outline	3.0
	MKTG 1146	Introduction to Sustainable Marketing Businesses around the globe are waking up to the importance of sustainability. This course frames marketing in the context of a more sustainable world and challenges marketing students to think differently about marketing to transform the discipline into a force for good with a zero-tolerance approach to greenwashing and purpose-washing. To do this, marketers need to adapt and be more socially and environmentally conscious. This course provides foundational knowledge about current sustainability challenges, explores the principles and practices of sustainable marketing, and examines how to effectively integrate sustainability into the marketing mix to create a more sustainable marketing plan. Prerequisite(s): No prerequisites are required for this course. course outline	3.0
	MKTG 1352	Digital Marketing The focus of this course will be to provide the student with e-Marketing techniques and strategies that can help any forward-thinking organization be competitive in today's business environment. Key areas that promise to leverage the power of Internet are: customer relationship management (CRM); 1:1 marketing; permission-based e-mail marketing; viral marketing; attributes of a good Website and Website marketing goals; Website promotion/search engine positioning/ranking, and key Internet technologies/terminologies/acronyms. Prerequisite(s): No prerequisites are required for this course. course outline	3.0
	MKTG 2202	Introduction to Marketing Communications This course provides the opportunity to develop a complete communications plan from the situation analysis to creative solutions. It reviews the role of strategic planning as it applies to media, creative, sales promotion and research, and examines those areas of promotion where each fit in the promotional mix and when would each best be applied. Prerequisite(s): 50% in MKTG 1102 course outline	4.0
	MKTG 2225	Project Management in Marketing Project Management skills are in high demand and can provide a competitive edge in today’s workplace. This intensive course gives you the practical skills you need to deliver a winning project on time and on budget, with a marketing frame of reference. This course teaches you how to create a project life cycle, statement of work, work breakdown structure, schedule, budget, and risk management plan. Working in a team, you will apply your Project Management skills to a real-life marketing project. This course will prepare you to make a meaningful contribution to any project. Prerequisite(s): No prerequisites are required for this course. course outline	4.0
	MKTG 2552	YouTube Marketing Did you know that more video content is uploaded to the internet in a single month than network television has produced in three decades? And most of it is uploaded to YouTube. As the world’s second largest search engine (and owned by the world’s largest), YouTube is a powerful driver of website traffic. Marketers use video as the primary media for their content strategy, creating YouTube channels for presentations to drive leads and sales, for explainer videos to increase product and service understanding, for advertising, and more. This course will introduce students to the basics of setting up a YouTube channel, learning how to create content that is optimized for search, managing the analytics to hone and tweak successful YouTube performances, and using YouTube to deliver on business objectives. Prerequisite(s): 50% in MKTG 1352 OR relevant industry experience course outline	3.0
	MKTG 2909	Fundamentals of Marketing Research This course explores the fundamentals of marketing research – what it is, how it is used, why it is used, and its role in and importance to the marketing function. Secondary, qualitative, and quantitative research methods and tools will be explored. Particular emphasis will be placed on identifying and locating online sources of secondary data; evaluating and selecting appropriate methods for conducting primary research; the proper design of qualitative and quantitative data gathering tools; conducting effective survey fieldwork; understanding the nature and use of basic quantitative data analyses; and the proper reporting of research findings. Students will be taken through the steps of a major multi-method marketing research project. Prerequisite(s): No prerequisites are required for this course. course outline	3.0
	MKTG 3321	Public Relations In this course, students will explore a variety of concepts, tools, and techniques to generate publicity and earned media opportunities in an increasingly complex digital world—including building and leveraging relationships with the press and traditional/broadcast media, influencers, and customers—for B2B, B2C, and not-for-profit organizations. Students will analyze and plan public relations campaigns across communication channels, considering established digital and social platforms, emerging media environments, events and experiential marketing. Prerequisite(s): No prerequisites are required for this course. course outline	3.0
	MKTG 3342	Negotiating Skills Designed to cover the key elements that take place within the marketing or sales negotiation context. Students will explore negotiating styles, strategies and tactics. You will also prepare for, conduct, then evaluate an actual negotiating situation. The impact of ethics, power and culture are also examined through case studies, role play simulations, lectures and discussions. Prerequisite(s): No prerequisites are required for this course. course outline	3.0
	MKTG 3554	Brand Strategy This course will provide insight into the strategies behind successful brands. The focus will be on analyzing company, industry, consumer and competitive information to provide a sound foundation for developing a brand strategy. Additionally, students will learn the components of branding and how to use brand development tools. Students will learn how to position and brand products and services in order to prevent them from being turned into commodities and understand that all marketing campaigns serve the larger mission of developing a brand. Prerequisite(s): (50% in MKTG 1102 and 50% in MKTG 1352) or 50% in MKTG 2202 course outline	3.0

Total Credits:			29.0

Check current availability of courses for this program.

Transfer credit

Do you have credits from another BC/Yukon post-secondary school? Do you want to know if they transfer to courses here at BCIT? Check out BCIT's Transfer Equivalency Database to find out.

Program Details

The Nonprofit Management associate certificate is designed specially to give you a solid foundation of core skills required in almost any charitable organization. In this unique set of online courses, you’ll work closely with experienced professionals to hone the practical skills managers at nonprofits worldwide use every day.

Program delivery

This program is offered in the following delivery modes:

Blended: The program is delivered partly on campus and partly online.
Online: The entire program is delivered fully online.

Program location

Courses may be offered at the following locations:

Burnaby Campus
3700 Willingdon Avenue
Burnaby, BC

Downtown Campus
555 Seymour Street
Vancouver, BC

Distance and online learning

Graduating & Jobs

By earning your associate certificate, you’ll train with the most essential skills needed in today’s nonprofit organizations. Your focus on a variety of areas means you’ll have the abilities and knowledge to successfully support a charity in many different roles.

Some job opportunities include:

Development Manager/Director/Officer
Executive Director
Operations Manager
Board Director

Graduate employment outcomes

The BCIT student outcomes report presents summary findings from the annual survey of former students administered by BC Stats one to two years after graduation. These reports combine the last three years of available results for the 2022-2024 BCIT Outcomes Surveys of 2021-2023 graduates and for Degree 2020-2022 graduates. The reports are organized into three-page summaries containing information on graduates’ labour market experiences and opinions regarding their education. More detailed information can be accessed at the BC Student Outcomes website.

To view these results, you may need to have the Adobe Acrobat Reader installed in your Web browser.

Nonprofit Management

Apply for graduation

Upon successful completion of all program requirements, complete an Application for BCIT Credential [PDF] and submit it to Student Information and Enrolment Services.

Allow approximately six to eight weeks for processing.

All financial obligations to the Institute must be met prior to issuance of any credential.

Contact Us

If you have questions that you could not find the answer to online, or if you require further assistance, please contact us: mktgpts@bcit.ca.

Candace Marrington – Student Inquiries
Program Assistant
Tel: 604-432-8723
Email: Candace_Marrington@bcit.ca

Tracey Renzullo
Flexible Learning Program Head
Tel: 604-451-7033
Email: Tracey_Renzullo@bcit.ca

Contact a Flexible Learning Program Advisor with the BCIT program name in the subject line if you have a question about:

Course selection and program planning
Declaring your program
Making changes to your approved program plan
Applying for transfer credit and advanced placement
Laddering options
Job placement and graduate outcomes
Student life

Questions or comments?

Programs and courses are subject to change without notice.