North Park University Chicago

Certified Nonprofit Professional Credential

Earn Your Certified Nonprofit Professional (CNP) Credential

Regardless of your major, you may earn the coveted CNP—a professional credential designed to prepare you for a fulfilling and well-paying career in management in the nonprofit sector. Did you know that the nonprofit sector continues to outpace both government and for-profit sectors in employment and wage growth? For those interested in a social-impact career, obtaining a CNP credential opens the doors to a wealth of vibrant career opportunities.

Why Choose North Park?

North Park University offers the nationally-recognized CNP credential through an affiliation with the Nonprofit Leadership Alliance, a 70-year-old national alliance of universities and nonprofit organizations working to build a talent pipeline for the nonprofit sector.

The North Park CNP credential program is designed to reduce the learning curve of emerging nonprofit leaders, allowing them to immediately impact their organizations and communities. Through practical, real-world experience, students build the critical-thinking skills essential for successful nonprofit leadership.

The Alliance Network

Earning your CNP means you become a part of the Nonprofit Leadership Alliance network—including 50 top colleges, universities, and national nonprofits as well as 10,000 CNPs leading some of the nation’s most successful social sector organizations. Whether you are interested in volunteer coordination, fundraising, or program management, the CNP program is a proven way to launch your nonprofit career.

Learn More

Since 2003, the nonprofit sector has grown faster—in employees and wages—than business or government.
Research shows that CNPs are 7 times more likely to reach a leadership position than their peers.
90% of CNPs from established alliance campuses find a nonprofit job in 3 months or less. (View Study)

Alumni Spotlight: Holly M. Kress, CNP

(Seen in photo holding a Saker Falcon at the Pacific Rim Institute’s annual Raptor Day.)

“In my role as Development Director for the Pacific Rim Institute for Environmental Stewardship, I helped our organization begin its journey as a new nonprofit. I’ve helped raise almost $500,000 from individuals and over $100,000 in grants in four years, and I’ve mentored over 20 young adults as short-term interns and staff. This work has contributed to equipping people and communities to live sustainably and care for creation.”