High School
To pursue a career in fund-raising, you should follow a college preparatory curriculum. English, creative writing, speech, mathematics, business, and history classes are recommended, as well as a foreign language, bookkeeping, and computer training. Extracurricular activities such as student council and community outreach programs can help you cultivate important leadership qualities and give you a taste of what fund-raising work requires.
Postsecondary Training
Only a small number of colleges offer degrees or certificates in fund-raising. However, colleges are increasingly offering courses in the broader field of philanthropy. Most fund-raisers have earned a university degree. A broad liberal arts background, with special attention to the social sciences, is a great benefit to fund-raisers because of the nature of most fund-raising work. Specialized degrees that could benefit fund-raisers include communications, psychology, sociology, public relations, business administration, education, and journalism. This type of education will give fund-raisers insight into the concerns and efforts of most nonprofit organizations and how to bring their worthwhile efforts to the public's attention. Courses in economics, accounting, and mathematics are also very useful.
Certification
Colleges and universities offer certificates in fundraising and related areas. For example, New York University’s School of Professional Studies offers a Nonprofit Fundraising Certificate, which provides skills and credentials to individuals who want to enter the nonprofit sector. Most of the classes are available online and last between five and 10 weeks.
Other Education or Training
The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) offers a Fundamentals of Fundraising Course that contains modules such as: Overview of Fundraising, Developing an Integrated Fundraising Program, Marketing for Ongoing Success, Building & Sustaining Relationships, Securing the Gift, Partners in Fundraising, and Management & Accountability. The association also provides other continuing education opportunities, including a Leadership Academy. Contact the AFP for more information. Grant writing workshops are also especially helpful.
- Active and Contemplative Religious Sisters and Brothers
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- Corporate Community Relations Directors
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- Demographers
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- Directors of Fund-Raising
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