Nonprofit Leadership Certificate Program Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I register or become a part of the Nonprofit Leadership Certificate Program?

Register through The Ohio State University Office of Continuing Education (CEd) for the Nonprofit Survey 101 class (the first in the series). Payment must accompany all registrations.
Online:    ced.osu.edu/NonprofitLeadership_reg.html
Phone:    (614) 292-8571
Fax:      (614) 292-0492

2. Do I have to take the Nonprofit Survey Class first? What if I missed it this quarter and want to begin taking classes?

It is beneficial to take the survey class first. We will try to offer the survey class two times each quarter if there are enough registered students. You may take and receive credit for one class before taking the survey class. See question 9 for more details.

3. How long will it take me to complete the program?

The program has been designed to be completed within one year, but you may take longer if you wish. Everyone is encouraged to complete the program within 24 months.

4. What is the cost of the program?

This varies because you have a wide range of elective classes from which to choose. Instead of charging one set fee for the entire program, you may register from a selection of elective classes. This enables you to tailor the program to your needs.

5. I am not in the Nonprofit Leadership Certificate Program. How do I register for a FIRSTLINK class?

You should register at or through FIRSTLINK (firstlink.org) only.
Phone: (614) 221-6766
Fax: (614) 224-6866

You only register through Ohio State’s CEd if you are in the Nonprofit Leadership Certificate Program.

6. Why can I not register through FIRSTLINK for classes in the Nonprofit Leadership Certificate Program?

The Ohio State University Office of Continuing Education is the record-keeping entity for this program.

7. Why do I have to pay a late fee when I register through Ohio State for classes?

It has always been our policy to charge a late fee for registrations occurring less than one week prior to the start of a class. This encourages students to register in advance allowing us to better prepare for the class.

8. I have already taken some of the required or elective classes. Do I have to take them again? Can these classes be counted toward my Nonprofit Leadership Certificate Program requirements and electives?

If you have taken a class within the previous 12 months of the start of the same upcoming class and have documentation that you attended at least 75 percent of the class hours, then you may present this documentation to receive credit so you don’t have to repeat the class.

9. For how many classes may I receive credit before I take the survey class?

You can receive credit for only ONE class taken after Jan. 1, 2008. There is no limit to the number of classes taken prior to Jan. 1, 2008. See also question 2 for more details. For further clarification, please call (614) 292-8571.

10. How do I find an internship as part of the requirements of the program?

Because the internship component is a very important part of the program, representatives from FIRSTLINK will help you locate one if you need assistance. All internships must receive prior approval from FIRSTLINK.