Certificate in Fundraising (online)

The Certificate will commence on March 10th, 2025.

Please note this EFA-certified course will only run once in 2025.

Are you looking to enhance your fundraising skills and advance your professional development? The Certificate in Fundraising provides a comprehensive foundation in the theoretical concepts and principles of fundraising. It explores the significance of fundraising within the sector and its impact on Irish society.

This is an online professional qualification, with no face to face training days. It is designed to give clear milestones to keep students motivated and engaged. The key to success within this educational approach is student participation and student involvement. The course won’t work without it.

The online format for the Certificate in Fundraising allows you to study for Ireland’s only recognised fundraising qualification, wherever you live, complete scheduled weekly tasks at times which suit you during the week, with on-going distance learning support from our professional, experienced tutors, which includes three short scheduled meetings with your class and tutor. The virtual learning environment helps you to gain the knowledge and apply it as well as giving you the opportunity to share your ideas and experiences through the student discussion forum.
 

Who is this qualification for?

This qualification is designed for individuals responsible for the frontline implementation of fundraising activities. As a guide, you should have a minimum of one to three years of fundraising experience either in a paid or voluntary capacity. However, it is also suitable for those looking to make a career change into fundraising should they be willing to put in the extra time needed. The Cii Academy team is available to discuss this further, if necessary.
 

What are the benefits to you and your organisation?

You will become a more confident fundraiser and understand how to improve your results. You will learn practical, effective fundraising skills to apply in your current role. These skills will enable you to make a positive immediate impact on your own, and your organisation's fundraising results.
 

When will the Certificate begin?

The Certificate will commence on March 10th 2025, and will run again in 2026. If you are interested in enrolling for this please fill in this form below.

Course format

You are required to complete eight modules to achieve the Certificate in Fundraising. This includes seven core modules and one elective module of your choice.

The seven compulsory modules are:

1. Fundraising in Context (no tutor involvement)
2. Fundraising Planning (also available as an in-person event)
3. Direct Marketing Campaigns
4. Corporate Partnerships
5. Community Fundraising & Volunteer Management 
6. Donor Care & Experience 
7. Fundraising from Trusts, Foundations and Grants

You also choose one elective module from the following:

1. Legacy Fundraising
2. Digital Fundraising 
3. Regular Giving and Face To Face Recruitment
4. Managing a Team & Group Dynamics 

How are the modules structured and delivered?

Online Course Overview:

Our 100% online course offers a dynamic blend of interactive activities, readings, and case studies. Assessment involves completing two formal written assignments, each with predetermined deadlines to assist in effective study planning.

Module Structure:

• Modules span a week, starting with a Monday introductory session (typically 10:00 am - 10:30 am) where you meet your tutor and classmates.
• A recommended timetable guides you through the material, with mid-week and end-of-week meetings (typically Wednesday & Friday, 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm).
• Learning material is structured in 30-minute segments, concluding with thought-provoking concepts.
• Anticipate dedicating 6-8 hours per module, covering content, meetings, and additional materials.

Learning Management System:

• The online course resides in a user-friendly Learning Management System.
• Manage personal details, access calendars, and review progress and feedback for assignments and activities.
• Access learning outcomes, readings, and activities for each module to reinforce knowledge application.
• Supplementary resources include required readings, articles, videos, and links to valuable websites.

Interactive Student Platform:

• Engage in the student discussion forum to share comments and feedback, fostering collaborative learning with tutors and peers.

Student participation and engagement is essential throughout the qualification.

Learning Objectives:

Embark on a comprehensive learning journey that merges the latest concepts in professional fundraising with real-world Irish case studies. The skills and knowledge acquired are positioned at the forefront of the field, making a tangible impact on any fundraising program.

Introduction to Nonprofit Sector:

• Explore the nonprofit sector and understand philanthropy's pivotal role as a primary income source for organizations.

Ethics and Best Practices:

• Examine crucial topics such as ethics, fundraising best practices, ethical frameworks, the Code of Fundraising, GDPR, Charities SORP, and common ethical challenges encountered by fundraisers.

Fundraising Planning:

• Gain insight into the fundraising planning process, conducting audits, setting objectives, and crafting strategies and tactical plans.

Donor Management and Experience:

• Understand best practices in donor care and retention, the significance of data, and the key stages in building a donor retention strategy.
• Explore reasons for donation, factors leading to cessation, and essential elements of creative briefing.

Fundraising Mix:

• Delve into the intricacies of implementing key fundraising forms, including direct response fundraising through traditional media.
• Gain expertise in major gift fundraising, community fundraising, and institutional fundraising, encompassing corporate partnerships and grants from trusts & foundations.
• Apply learning through case studies with local organisations, and choose to explore legacy fundraising, digital fundraising, or team dynamics in more detail.

Assessment

You will need to complete two work-based, case study written assignments. 

What level of commitment is needed?

You are expected to attend every session and actively engage with your class and tutor. If you fail to attend and/or engage you will disrupt your own learning experience and the shared learning experience of your group.

You are also expected to study in your own time. On average the length of time needed to complete the Certificate in Fundraising is approximately six months, this includes assessments. You are expected to commit approximately 6-8 hours a week until the completion of the program. This amounts to approximately 150 hours of individual study.

To ensure you are not placed at a disadvantage when studying for the Certificate you should have a good command of written and spoken English to complete assignments to the required standard.

Course Fees include:

• Course tutors, and learning management system.
• European Fundraising Association (EFA) Certification.

Requirements:

You will need Internet access to use essential online course materials.

You will need to purchase the course textbook Sargeant, A. and George, J. (2022) Fundraising Management: Analysis, Planning and Practice (fourth edition), Routledge, London - it is not included in the course fee.

Experience:

Minimum 1-3 years paid or voluntary. It is also suitable for those looking to make a career change into fundraising should they be willing to put in the extra time needed.

Location:

Online

Fees:

€1260 - Member Rate
€1900 - Non-Member Rate

Please note that a 20% Deposit will be required to secure your place on this course.

We are keen to ensure you are ready to undertake this qualification.

As a quick check can you answer 'yes' to the following questions before booking:

• Do you meet the suggested level of experience for this qualification?
• Can you commit to the self-directed study elements of the course for at least 6-8 hours per module (plus assignments) until the end of your studies (approximately 9 months)?
• Do you have access to your organisation’s current materials (such as strategic plan, business plan, marketing materials and fundraising collateral)?

If you have any questions regarding the Certificate in Fundraising please contact annelies@charitiesinstitute.ie

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