Certified Nonprofit Professional (CNP)

The CNP is the only nationally recognized credential in nonprofit management that showcases learning and real-world experience. The CNP means you will perform better in your job and be 7x more likely to lead in the workplace.

Professionals can consider two tracks to earn the CNP!

CNP: Certified Nonprofit Professional credential

Professional Track

A 6-month facilitator-led cohort designed to move social sector leaders to their next level of leadership. The cost of $1,800 includes tuition, all course materials, a complimentary ticket to Elevate – a virtual conference for social sector leaders, access to the learner profile portal, networking opportunities with our 12k-strong community, and a digital badge.

Would 5 payments of $360 fit better into your budget? Please register using this form.

September 10, 2024 – March 2025

January 27, 2025 – June 2025

Accelerated Professional Track

Perfect for nonprofit professionals with significant experience looking to earn their CNP in an expedited manner. This track provides an independent, on-demand study and exam process for a total cost of $875.

Do you qualify for the Accelerated Professional Track? Then you might be a great candidate for the Advanced CNP! Learn how you can earn both the CNP and ACNP credentials at the same time.

Don’t miss out!

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Want to talk about your options?

Meet with a NLA Team Member!

What track is right for you?

Professional Track

Accelerated Professional Track

How many years of experience do you have in the Nonprofit sector? At least 1 year. 8 years +
How much educational experience do you have? (*Degree not required*) A bachelor’s degree in any major, or equivalent higher education and experience. This requirement can also be completed through military service or specialty certificate. Not sure if you qualify? Reach out to us. A bachelor’s degree in any major, or equivalent higher education and experience. This requirement can also be completed through military service or specialty certificate. Not sure if you qualify? Reach out to us.
How long does it take me to complete the program? 6-month cohort experience 3 or fewer months
How many people are in the cohort? Each cohort has approximately 25-40 learners. None. This is an independent self-study.
What is the weekly time commitment? Past learners report spending 3-5 hours a week on content and material. The recommended time is 3-5 hours a week for 12 weeks; however, you can review and complete the study guide and exam whenever it is best for you.
Is it facilitated? You have an expert facilitator leading you through six courses of content and providing feedback on your applied projects. These assignments take what you learn in the program and apply it to a real-world organization. At the end of the program, you’ll have a portfolio to leverage that next role! A self-paced program with knowledge checks along the way. These checks test you on key nonprofit competencies to help you prepare for the exam.
How do I engage with other CNPs and CNP learners? We’ll host 3-5 live sessions that allow you to network, study together, or hear from experts in the nonprofit sector. You are able to connect with CNPs and CNP learners once you complete the program and become a CNP yourself.
Do I have to take an Exam? At the end of each course, you will take a 25-question exam. These exams are open-book and in a multiple-choice format. You will sit for a 100-question timed exam. You must achieve a 76% to pass.
Can I earn CFRE Points? Eligible to earn 51 points in Category 1.B (Education of the CFRE International application for initial certification and/or recertification) after program completion. Not eligible for CFRE points
Elevate: A Virtual Conference for Social Sector Leaders Complementary tickets included in your tuition. Tickets are not included in your tuition
What is the price? $1800 $875

What does it take to earn a CNP?

When you earn your CNP, you will be part of a global network of professionals leading teams that make our world better. Every person who wears a CNP badge meets five requirements. Hover over each icon to learn more. Test your knowledge by taking the CNP Sample Quiz.

Orange hand holding a heart

Volunteer Service

Nonprofit professional experience

Professional Experience

Lightbulb with gears turning inside representing the CNP's nonprofit knowledge and skills

Nonprofit Knowledge and Skills

Orange outline of a group of CNPs working together, successfully earning an orange star icon

Leadership Development

Orange Diploma Cap

Education

Professional Track

Program Outline

CNP Professional Track Sample Outline Photo

Accelerated Track

Program Outline

Certified Nonprofit Professional (CNP) Accelerated Professional Track Sample Outline

What can you expect?

Earn a lifelong credential

Once a CNP, always a CNP. Your digital credential can be shared on all of your social platforms. The format is easy to import to your email signature line, LinkedIn, and other social media. Once you credential, you will also receive a CNP certificate in nonprofit management suitable for printing.

CNP Central

After enrolling in the program, you’ll log into CNP Central, our platform for all things CNP. Here you’ll track your progress toward the five CNP requirements. You’ll also learn from nonprofit professionals, connect with fellow students, and take advantage of nonprofit and career resources. 

Career L!FT

Hosted on CNP Central, Career L!FT helps you build the career you want in the social sector. Get help with writing a resume, completing your LinkedIn profile, finding a job, setting work-life boundaries, and protecting your mental health. 

CNP Mentor Match

Pair up with one of our CNPs working in the social sector. Ask questions you aren’t sure who to ask. Practice interview skills. Get advice on preparing your resume or building your LinkedIn profile. Our alumni are the most valuable asset of our entire network. Tap into their know-how!

Elevate

Hosted by the Nonprofit Leadership Alliance, this three-day virtual conference for social sector leaders takes place every winter. Participants learn from national thought leaders, network with changemakers, and access a wealth of resources.

Meet with a NLA Staff Member!

Have some questions? Schedule a 1:1 with NLA Staff!


CNP, April Carter smiling with a green professional shirt and black suit jacket

The CNP Professional Track provided a holistic deep-dive into the world of Nonprofit Operations that securely positioned me in my new role as a Director. The content was very rich and comprehensive, yet extremely approachable, with practical steps to implement into my organization. This program really leveled up my 15 years of nonprofit experience and was well worth it!

April L. Carter, CNP

Stefanie O’Brien, CNP smiling in a black blazer and grey background

“Because of this program, I was able to lead and guide discussions at my organization about changes and investments we could make to improve our impact. This program gave me the confidence and know-how. I am grateful, not just for the impact on me as a leader, but also what it will do for those we serve. Who knew so much could change in just 6 months!”

Stefanie O’Brien, CNP