Myth: People who work for nonprofits don’t get paid.

Fact: Nonprofits employ professionals in communications, marketing, finance, HR, tech, and leadership — all paid, skilled positions.

The NLP Certificate gives you the skills to step into these high-impact, career-ready roles.

Myth: Nonprofits are all small, local charities.

Fact: Nonprofits include hospitals, universities, museums, advocacy groups, and global NGOs.

NLP students and alumni partner with organizations across Iowa and the world — from Make-A-Wish Iowa to the Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation.

Myth: Working for a nonprofit means direct service.

Fact: Many roles are behind the scenes — event planning, fundraising, communications, research, or data analysis.

NLP helps you explore your niche — leadership, creativity, or strategy — within mission-driven work.

Myth: You can’t build a real career in nonprofits.

Fact: Nearly 1 in 10 Americans works for a nonprofit — a powerful, stable, and growing sector.

The NLP Certificate opens doors to management, communication, and community leadership careers.

Myth: Nonprofits don’t offer advancement or competitive pay.

Fact: Professionals with leadership, fundraising, and communication skills advance quickly — and earn competitive salaries with strong benefits.

The NLP Certificate equips you with those in-demand skills to grow your impact and income.

Alumni Testimonial’s

“The NLP Certificate completely changed how I saw my career. I thought I had to choose between doing good and making a living — but this program showed me I could do both.”
Hannah Acker, Class of 2022, Chicago Public Media

“Before the NLP Certificate, I wasn’t sure how to turn my passion for helping others into a career. Through courses in fundraising and communications, I learned real skills that opened doors.”
Peter Lainson, Class of 2020, LA Family Housing

Bottom Line: Nonprofits aren’t just about volunteering — they’re about leadership, innovation, and purpose. The Nonprofit Leadership & Philanthropy Certificate helps you gain the experience and skills to make a difference and build a rewarding career.