John Wiley & Sons

Foundations of Nonprofit Leadership and Strategy

Keep adding new skills with 10,000+ programs for $239 (usually $399). Save now.

John Wiley & Sons

Foundations of Nonprofit Leadership and Strategy

Included with Coursera Plus

Ask Coursera

Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Beginner level

Recommended experience

8 hours to complete
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Beginner level

Recommended experience

8 hours to complete
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace

What you'll learn

  • Analyze core nonprofit leadership strategies and organizational management practices.

  • Develop strategic plans and partnership approaches for nonprofit growth and sustainability.

  • Evaluate nonprofit legal, staffing, diversity, and risk management considerations.

Details to know

Shareable certificate

Add to your LinkedIn profile

Recently updated!

June 2026

Assessments

11 assignments

Taught in English

See how employees at top companies are mastering in-demand skills

 logos of Petrobras, TATA, Danone, Capgemini, P&G and L'Oreal

Build your subject-matter expertise

This course is part of the Nonprofit Management 101 Specialization
When you enroll in this course, you'll also be enrolled in this Specialization.
  • Learn new concepts from industry experts
  • Gain a foundational understanding of a subject or tool
  • Develop job-relevant skills with hands-on projects
  • Earn a shareable career certificate

There are 11 modules in this course

This module explores the origins, values, and economic significance of the nonprofit sector in the United States, highlighting its evolution and current trends. Learners will gain insight into the sector's societal impact, its role in public policy, and its global context. The module also examines key historical movements and compares the US nonprofit landscape to those in other countries.

What's included

1 video6 readings1 assignment

This module guides learners through the process of self-assessment, skill development, and strategic networking to advance their careers in the nonprofit sector. Participants will explore how to align personal strengths with professional opportunities and build connections that foster long-term growth. Practical strategies and resources are provided to support meaningful leadership development.

What's included

1 video4 readings1 assignment

This module guides learners through the essentials of building effective social movements, focusing on balancing visionary goals with practical strategies for sustainable growth. Learners will explore the importance of strategic planning, resource allocation, and team development, as well as the critical roles of credibility, authenticity, and collaboration in movement success.

What's included

1 video3 readings1 assignment

This module explores the unique demands of nonprofit leadership, focusing on the essential skills and competencies required to navigate financial and organizational challenges. Learners will discover actionable strategies for building effective teams and leading with impact in mission-driven organizations.

What's included

1 video3 readings1 assignment

This module guides learners through the essentials of strategic planning for nonprofits, emphasizing the importance of external input, measurable outcomes, and financial discipline. Participants will discover how to assess their environment, align resources, and use organizational dashboards to track progress toward their mission.

What's included

1 video4 readings1 assignment

This module explores various models of nonprofit collaboration, guiding learners through assessing organizational readiness and developing effective partnership strategies. Participants will gain insights into the skills required for successful alliances and the complexities of strategic restructuring to maximize impact.

What's included

1 video4 readings1 assignment

This module explores the unique risks faced by nonprofit organizations and introduces effective strategies for risk mitigation, including the selection and management of insurance coverages. Learners will gain practical knowledge on evaluating insurance needs, working with brokers, and establishing ongoing risk review processes to support organizational resilience.

What's included

1 video4 readings1 assignment

This module explores strategic approaches to human capital management in the nonprofit sector, including competency modeling, effective hiring processes, and equitable compensation strategies. Learners will discover how to attract, evaluate, and retain top talent to maximize organizational impact.

What's included

1 video4 readings1 assignment

This module examines how nonprofits can effectively integrate diversity and inclusion into their strategies, with a focus on race, generational differences, and disabilities. Learners will explore demographic trends, assess volunteer diversity, and discover actionable steps for creating sustainable diversity plans. By understanding these concepts, participants will be better equipped to foster equitable and impactful service delivery.

What's included

1 video6 readings1 assignment

This module introduces the essential legal frameworks governing nonprofit organizations, including federal tax requirements, compliance obligations, and distinctions between public charities and private foundations. Learners will gain foundational knowledge of operational tests, governance structures, and annual reporting duties critical to nonprofit success.

What's included

1 video4 readings1 assignment

This module examines how nonprofits can influence public policy through effective advocacy, civic engagement, and coalition-building. Learners will discover legal frameworks for lobbying, strategies for nonpartisan action, and the importance of uniting for systemic change. Practical approaches to grassroots organizing and media engagement are also explored.

What's included

1 video4 readings1 assignment

Earn a career certificate

Add this credential to your LinkedIn profile, resume, or CV. Share it on social media and in your performance review.

Instructor

Wiley Skills Network
John Wiley & Sons
121 Courses7,097 learners

Offered by

Explore more from Leadership and Management

Why people choose Coursera for their career

Felipe M.

Learner since 2018
"To be able to take courses at my own pace and rhythm has been an amazing experience. I can learn whenever it fits my schedule and mood."

Jennifer J.

Learner since 2020
"I directly applied the concepts and skills I learned from my courses to an exciting new project at work."

Larry W.

Learner since 2021
"When I need courses on topics that my university doesn't offer, Coursera is one of the best places to go."

Chaitanya A.

"Learning isn't just about being better at your job: it's so much more than that. Coursera allows me to learn without limits."

Frequently asked questions