Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to complete the program and what will I receive upon completion?

There are three courses in the program and each course runs on a quarterly basis, for 10 weeks. The courses in the program are:

• Introduction to Philanthropy and Fundraising
• Introduction to Strategies and Practices for Fundraising
• Major Gift Fundraising from Individuals, Corporations, and Foundations
• View Course Listings

Upon successful completion of all required courses in the program, students will receive a Certificate of Completion from The School of Continuing Studies at Northwestern University.

What are the tuition and fees for the program?

Tuition is $925 for each class. Books and materials are not included in the tuition price and must be purchased separately.

Is there an admissions process to become enrolled in the program?

There is no formal admissions process for this program. Courses may be taken in any sequence and students may begin coursework at any time. Students can register by mail, fax or register online.

How do I get my Certificate?

Within three months following the completion of your final course, complete and return the Certificate Completion form (PDF Format) to the Registration Office on the Chicago Campus.

What are the class location(s) and time(s) of the classes?

Classes are held from 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. on our Chicago campus:
339 E. Chicago Avenue
Wieboldt Hall
Chicago, Il 60611

Can I enroll in individual courses without having to complete the program?

Students who plan on earning the certificate should move through the program as a cohort, but classes may also be taken individually and out of sequence.

Where can I purchase books and materials?

Textbooks and/or required course materials will be posted on the class web site. Students may purchase books online at such sites as BN.com or Amazon.com.

What is the enrollment deadline?

Students may register up until 5:00 p.m. the last business day before the class begins, provided space is available. Early bird registration ends at 5:00 pm seven calendar days prior to the first class meeting. Students who register after this date will be charged a $50.00 late registration fee.

Is there a cancellation policy/fee?

The University reserves the right to cancel classes due to insufficient enrollments, instructor illness, severe weather or natural disaster. In the event of cancellation due to insufficient enrollment, registrants will be notified immediately and all fees will be returned.

Student-generated cancellations must be reported in writing (a fax or e-mail response is acceptable) before the first meeting of the course; however, a $50 processing fee will be withheld from the refunded amount. Please note that no refunds will be issued after the class begins.

Who are the instructors that teach in the program?

Our instructors are experienced, professionals from the Chicago area. Instructors work as a team to develop and deliver a dynamic classroom experience. For instructor biographical information, please see the course listings.

Who should enroll in this program?

The program is designed for individuals who seek to advance their careers in fundraising for non-profit institutions or in philanthropic organizations; career-changers in the for-profit sector who are considering non-profit sector employment; recent graduates of public policy or business administration degree programs; and board members and volunteers who seek a foundational understanding of fundraising and philanthropy.

Whom can I contact for more information?

For further information regarding this program, students may call (847) 491-3225 or email ncpdp@northwestern.edu.