This course offers a comprehensive exploration into the dynamic world of the Not-for-Profit Sector, providing students with a foundational understanding of its evolution, structure, governance, and regulatory frameworks. Through a combination of theoretical insights and practical case studies, students will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate and contribute effectively within this vital sector.
Course Objectives:
- To trace the Evolution of the Not-for-Profit Sector, from its historical origins to its contemporary significance in addressing societal needs and fostering social change.
- To analyze and differentiate between several types of Not-for-Profit Organizations, including Charities, Public Foundations, Private Foundations, and others, exploring their respective missions, structures, and legal requirements.
- To examine the Regulatory Landscape governing Not-for-Profit Organizations in Ontario, focusing on the Ontario Not-for-Profit Corporations Act (ONCA) guidelines and Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) regulations, and their implications for governance and compliance.
- To explore the Foundations of Effective Governance within Not-for-Profit Organizations, emphasizing the roles and responsibilities of Boards of Directors, and strategies for fostering transparency, accountability, and strategic decision-making
Lessons:
1. The Evolution of the Not-for-Profit Sector
- Historical origins and development
- Shifting paradigms and emerging trends
- Impact of globalization and technology
2. Navigating the Nonprofit Landscape
- Understanding the distinctions between diverse types of Not-for-Profit Organizations
- Legal structures and compliance requirements
- Comparative analysis of missions and activities
3. Harmonizing Governance
- Overview of the Ontario Not-for-Profit Corporations Act (ONCA)
- Compliance with Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) regulations
- Best practices for ensuring effective governance and accountability
4. Foundations of Effective Governance
- Roles and responsibilities of Board members
- Board composition and diversity
- Building a culture of transparency, ethics, and stewardship
Evaluation:
This course is a graded course where a complete or incomplete will be issued. In order to receive a Completion of this course, a student must:
- Participate in online discussions
- Complete lesson quizzes, reflections, or case studies
Upcoming Sessions:
- May 1 - May 28, 2026 (must be completed within 4 weeks)
- January 1 - January 28, 2026 (must be completed within 4 weeks)
- September 1 - September 28, 2026 (must be completed within 4 weeks)
All the courses are delivered online and asynchronously to enable participants to complete the work in their own time.
How to Register:
Courses are competitively priced, and registrants may qualify for OSAP or the Canada Ontario Job Grant, which offers support for employers.
Register for Individual Courses
Program Fees:
The fee for the micro-credential is $375, and there are no additional fees for textbooks or materials.
Current Trent undergraduate students receive 50% off. Please email microcredential@trentu.ca for details.
Trent Alumni receive 10% off. Please email alumni@trentu.ca for more information.
Current Trent staff and faculty receive 20% off. Please email microcredential@trentu.ca for more information.
NOTE: Only one discount code can be used per order
Prerequisites:
There are no formal prerequisites for this course, although a basic understanding of business principles and nonprofit organizations may be beneficial.
Conclusion:
By the end of this course, students will possess a comprehensive understanding of the Not-for-Profit Sector, its regulatory frameworks, and the foundational principles of effective governance. Armed with this knowledge, they will be better equipped to contribute meaningfully to the advancement of social causes and the achievement of organizational objectives within this critical sector.