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Certificate

Non-profit Sector Leadership and Innovation

The five-course certificate in Non-Profit Sector Leadership and Innovation prepares students for leadership and management in non-profit and voluntary sector organizations. It is the only program of its kind in Saskatchewan.

This part-time program is ideal for students who may be actively volunteering and interested in pursuing a career in the voluntary or non-profit sector. Students in this program are interested in meaningful work and making a difference. They often have close connections to the organization or cause they are working with. This program can be taken as a concurrent program with an undergraduate degree program at the University of Regina.

The certificate is also tailored to working professionals looking to advance their careers. The courses provide tools and techniques to work in the sector, as well as background in the structure and roles of non-profit organizations, organization management, human resources, communications and strategic planning.

The certificate in Non-Profit Sector Leadership and Innovation is a partnership between Luther College, the Faculty of Arts, and the Centre for Continuing Education. Students can complete the certificate through any of those academic units.

Quick Facts

Program: Certificate in Nonprofit Sector Leadership and Innovation
Length: 1-2 years
Offered Through: University of Regina Luther College
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Why Study Non-Profit Sector Leadership and Innovation at the University of Regina?

This program prepares the next generation of leaders in the non-profit sector. The certificate courses provide experience and skill development in areas directly applicable to leadership and management.

The certificate courses have been developed in collaboration with the Saskatchewan non-profit and voluntary sector. Each course involves an engaged-learning component, where students have the opportunity to work in partnership with a non-profit organization.

Small class sizes allow students to connect with their instructors and peers.
The NSLI certificate program has been a game-changer, shaping my perspective in the non-profit sector and equipping me with essential skill sets for my career. The program's comprehensive curriculum and guidance from professional instructors deepened my understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities within and beyond the non-profit sector.
Ziyang Zeo Li, ‘22
Recipient of the Multicultural Youth Leadership Award from the Multicultural Council of Saskatchewan (2023)

Non-Profit Sector Leadership and Innovation Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the Certificate in Non-Profit Sector Leadership and Innovation at the same time as another program?
Yes! This certificate program can be taken concurrently. Any student at the University of Regina, including the federated colleges, can enrol in Non-Profit Sector Leadership and Innovation courses and the certificate program as part of their studies. Speak to your academic advisor to discuss this option.
What are some of the courses that Certificate in Non-Profit Sector Leadership and Innovation students take?

NSLI 100 Foundations of the Nonprofit Sector

An introduction to the nonprofit and voluntary sector in Canada and the organizations that comprise it. The course examines the history, size, scope, and roles of the sector in society, relationships with government and other sectors and accountability in the context of governing and managing a private not-for-profit corporation.

NSLI 220 Nonprofit Advocacy and Community Development

Theoretical and practical consideration of nonprofit advocacy work, including power structures and systems, government structures, community development and organizing, and networking and engaging community residents to achieve changes in public policies and programs and to educate about societal problems. Legal restrictions on charities' advocacy are examined.

NSLI 230 Nonprofit Communications and Strategic Relationship Building

Communications with the general public, governments, other nonprofits, businesses, media, funders and donors in order to build intentional relationships are explored. Theory and practice are integrated in examining relationships and accountabilities. New perspectives on social media, virtual/public presence, branding, key messages, and time-sensitive response mechanisms are discussed.

NSLI 260 Nonprofit Organization Governance and Leadership

The course emphasizes theoretical and practical considerations in the governance of nonprofit organizations. It focuses on what boards, the volunteers who serve on them do, and how they do it to maximize nonprofit governance and organizational effectiveness. Emphasis on competencies of highly effective boards, CEOs, board chairs, and leadership volunteers.

Do you offer scholarships?

Yes! We offer the following scholarships for our certificate students:

  • Centre for Continuing Education Certificate Awards

Use our online Student Awards Management System (SAMS) to find other awards and scholarships for which you may be eligible.

Students who enroll through Luther College are eligible to apply for a range of scholarships and bursaries offered by the College. There are awards for both full-time and part-time students and many awards recognize service to the community.
Can I get recognition for prior learning for this program?
Prior Learning and Recognition (PLAR)  may be granted for one or more courses, except for NSLI 100 Foundations of the Nonprofit Sector, which is a required course for all students. PLAR will be determined by the Voluntary Sector Studies Network Director and the Centre for Continuing Education.

What Can You Do with a Certificate in Non-Profit Sector Leadership and Innovation?

Saskatchewan’s non-profit sector is strong, and employs more than 77,000 people in the province. Some of the jobs that graduates go on to include:
  • Communications and Social Media officer
  • Social and community service workers
  • Recreation, sports and fitness program and service directors
  • Library, archive, museum and art gallery managers
  • Executive director
  • Development manager
  • Events coordinator

Required Courses

NSLI 200 Foundations of the Nonprofit Sector
(NSLI 200 is a prerequisite for all other NSLI courses and is offered in fall terms.)

Three of:
NSLI 300
NSLI 310
NSLI 320
NSLI 330
NSLI 340
NSLI 350
NSLI 360
NSLI 390 AA-ZZ

Nonprofit Organization Management
Nonprofit Human Resources
Nonprofit Advocacy and Community Development
nonprofit Communications and Strategic Relationships Building
Nonprofit Program Planning and Evaluation
Nonprofit Financial Management and Philanthropy
Nonprofit Organization Governance and Leadership
Managing Diversity in Nonprfits Organizations

Electives (one from the following)

NSLI Course can be slected as electives
NSLI courses may only be counted once in either the required courses section or the approved elective section.
BUS 100 Introduction to Business
BUS 260 Introduction to Organizational Behaviour
IDS 101 Interdisciplinary Studies: Contemporary Issues
SOC 214 Sociology of Indigenous People in Canada
SRS 340 Governance and Legal Issues in Third Sector Organizations
PSCI 100 People, Power and Politics: An Introduction
PHIL 272 Contemporary Moral Issues
PHIL 276 Professional Ethics

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