Course Overview
This comprehensive course provides participants with the essential knowledge and skills needed for effective financial management within nonprofit organizations. Through a series of interactive modules, participants will learn how to establish robust record-keeping systems, develop effective financial management processes, understand accounting standards specific to not-for-profit organizations, and implement policies and procedures that support financial integrity and compliance.
Course Details
Format: This course is delivered online in an asynchronous format, allowing participants to learn and complete coursework at their own pace.
Duration: 4 weeks
Course Date:
- November 2, 2026
- June 1, 2027
Weekly Commitment: Approximately 3 hours per week
Cost: $375
- Course materials are provided online. Printed course materials are also available for an additional $99 per course.
Available Discounts
- Current Trent University Undergraduate students qualify for a 40% discount. Contact microcredential@trentu.ca for details.
- Trent University alumni receive a 10% discount. Contact alumni@trentu.ca for details.
Only one discount may be applied per registration.
Credential Earned: Digital Badge
Course Instructor: Carey McMaster, Capacity Building Specialist
Part of a Larger Credential
This micro-credential is one of nine courses that make up the Nonprofit Management Essentials Milestone-Badge. Complete all nine courses to earn the Milestone-Badge and develop well-rounded expertise in nonprofit leadership and management.
Interested in pursuing the full program? Learn more about the Milestone-Badge and its nine-course pathway, or register for the full program.
Registration
Ready to register?
Note for Trent University Staff
Permanent OPSEU employees at Trent University are now eligible for tuition waivers for Trent University micro-credential courses. Please do not register or pay through this page. Visit Support → Human Resources / Payroll / Waivers → Micro-Credential - Staff for waiver and registration instructions.
Funding Opportunities
Participants may be eligible for financial assistance through OSAP or the Ontario Job Grant, which provides funding support for employers investing in employee training.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Set up a record keeping system tailored to the needs of not-for-profit organizations, ensuring the accuracy, compliance, and accessibility of financial data.
- Establish a financial management system that supports effective budgeting, financial reporting, and decision-making within nonprofit organizations (NPOs).
- Apply accounting standards applicable to not-for-profit organizations, including requirements for financial reporting and disclosure.
- Develop and implement policies and procedures that promote financial integrity, transparency, and accountability within nonprofit organizations
Course Lessons
Lesson 1: Setting Up a Record Keeping System
- Importance of record keeping in NPOs
- Designing and implementing a system for accurate financial records
- Compliance requirements and best practices
Lesson 2: Setting Up a Financial Management System
- Components of an effective financial management system
- Budgeting processes and techniques for NPOs
- Financial reporting structures and tools
Lesson 3: Accounting Standards for Non-Profit Organizations
- Overview of specific accounting standards (e.g., ASPE, IFRS) applicable to NPOs
- Financial statement preparation and presentation
- Fund accounting principles and practices
Lesson 4: Ensuring Financial Integrity: Policies & Procedures
- Developing financial policies and procedures for NPOs
- Internal controls and segregation of duties
- Compliance with regulatory requirements and governance standards
View the full course curriculum.
Assessment Requirements
This course is graded on a Complete/Incomplete basis. To earn the micro-credential, participants must successfully complete:
- Active participation in online discussions
- Lesson-based assessments, such as quizzes, reflections, or case studies
Admission Requirements
Prerequisites
No formal prerequisites are required. Familiarity with basic business principles and not-for-profit organizations is helpful but not necessary.
Tax Receipt Information
Students may be eligible to receive a T2202 Tuition and Enrolment Certificate if their micro-credential meets Canada Revenue Agency requirements.
To qualify, students must meet the following criteria:
- Be enrolled in a qualifying educational program that provides at least 12 hours of instruction within a calendar month.
- Pay a minimum course fee of $150.
- Not receive a grant, reimbursement, benefit, or allowance for the program from an arm’s length party that would make the program ineligible under CRA guidelines.
Earn a Digital Badge
Upon successful completion of the course, participants will receive a verified digital badge that can be shared on LinkedIn, resumes, portfolios, and professional profiles.