According to fundraising professionals in the field, if you have nonprofit fundraising knowledge on top of graduate training in communication sciences, it makes you highly desirable for entry-level development associate positions. The availability of such jobs and demand for qualified candidates have grown recently.
The Specialization in Nonprofit Fundraising will provide you with:
- An understanding of a variety of fundraising strategies, the role of fundraising within nonprofit organizations and the role and responsibilities of the development professional in the fundraising process.
- An understanding of theory and research on social influence and how to employ this knowledge to promote the fundraising activities of a nonprofit organization.
- Practice in assisting the fundraising activities of a nonprofit organization.
With the approval your academic advisor and guidance committee, you may sign up for and complete the specialization. Once you have advisor approval, the student should contact the Academic Programs office in the Department of Advertising and Public Relations. Joni Tucker will enroll you in the program.
You are responsible for finding your own practicum experience. However, you are welcome to consult with Dr. Gwen Wittenbaum, who has established partnerships with various nonprofit organizations. Please register for the ADV 893 practicum through your academic advisor.
Questions? Additional information about the Specialization in Nonprofit Fundraising may be obtained from:
Joni Tucker
Academic Programs Coordinator
tucker40@msu.edu