Fundraising and Development Specialization

A Career That Makes a Difference. Connecting donors to their passions.

About This Specialization

Charitable giving is rebounding as the economy improves. Yet there is a shortage of qualified fundraising professionals to help organizations connect their needs with potential donors. Through four courses, you will gain the knowledge and skills to begin or advance your career in the high demand field of fundraising and development. This Specialization is designed to meet the rising demand for trained fundraising professionals.

Created by:

4 courses

Follow the suggested order or choose your own.

Projects

Designed to help you practice and apply the skills you learn.

Certificates

Highlight your new skills on your resume or LinkedIn.

Projects Overview

This program was developed and is taught by senior and executive members of the award-winning development team at UC Davis. Under their leadership, the university’s first comprehensive fundraising initiative raised over $1.1 billion from nearly 110,000 supporters. Our faculty, created hands-on assignments covering an array of real-world deliverables. You’ll finish the program with a portfolio that demonstrates your ability to bring value to any organization’s fundraising mission.

Courses

Beginner Specialization.: No prior experience required.

COURSE 1
Fundraising and Development Foundations
Upcoming session: Apr 23
Commitment
4 weeks of study, 2-5 hours/week
Subtitles
English
About the Course
In this course, you will gain an introduction to the basic terminology and concepts in the field, along with an overview of the development cycle from identification and cultivation through stewardship and recognition. You will learn how to develo
You can choose to take this course only. Learn more.
COURSE 2
Annual Campaigns: Building a Case for Support
Upcoming session: May 7
Commitment
4 weeks of study, 2-5 hours/week
Subtitles
English
About the Course
In this comprehensive overview of annual giving programs, you’ll gain an introduction to the basic terminology and concepts of annual giving as well as the various solicitation channels and donor types. Learn how to write a direct mail appeal, craft an i
You can choose to take this course only. Learn more.
COURSE 3
Major and Principal Gifts
Upcoming session: May 7
Commitment
4 weeks of study, 2-5 hours/week
Subtitles
English
About the Course
This course will provide a comprehensive view of major and principal gift development work for students who seek to build upon their experiences gained in the introductory session. Participants will gain an understanding of the philosophy and st
You can choose to take this course only. Learn more.
COURSE 4
Planned Giving
Upcoming session: Apr 23
Commitment
4 weeks of study, 2-5 hours/week
Subtitles
English
About the Course
In this comprehensive overview of planned giving, you’ll gain an introduction to the basic terminology and concepts in the field as well as an overview of each planned giving vehicle. Learn to identify and assess prospective donors, recognize
You can choose to take this course only. Learn more.

Creators

University of California, Davis
UC Davis, one of the nation’s top-ranked research universities, is a global leader in agriculture, veterinary medicine, sustainability, environmental and biological sciences, and technology. With four colleges and six professional schools, UC Davis and its students and alumni are known for their academic excellence, meaningful public service and profound international impact.