Course Overview
This specialized course equips learners with the essential skills and knowledge to effectively leverage digital marketing tools and strategies within nonprofit organizations (NPOs). Participants will explore the fundamentals of nonprofit digital marketing, including website optimization, content marketing, social media marketing, analytics, and other key tools necessary for achieving digital marketing success.
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 Options:
- February 1 - February 28, 2027
- May 3 - May 28, 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
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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:
- Explain the fundamentals of nonprofit digital marketing, including its significance, unique challenges, and opportunities within the nonprofit sector.
- Optimize nonprofit websites to improve user experience, accessibility, and conversion rates.
- Develop effective content marketing strategies tailored to nonprofit audiences, with an emphasis on storytelling and audience engagement.
- Apply social media marketing strategies to build community, increase visibility, and drive engagement for nonprofit causes.
- Use analytics and measurement tools to evaluate digital marketing performance, track key metrics, and optimize marketing strategies.
- Leverage essential digital marketing tools and platforms to support nonprofit communications, email marketing, fundraising, and volunteer management initiatives.
Course Lessons
Lesson 1: Introduction to Nonprofit Digital Marketing
- Overview of digital marketing in the nonprofit sector
- Unique challenges and opportunities
- Digital marketing trends and innovations
Lesson 2: Website Optimization for Nonprofits
- Principles of user-centered design for nonprofits
- Website accessibility and compliance
- Conversion rate optimization techniques
Lesson 3: Content Marketing for Nonprofits
- Developing a content strategy aligned with nonprofit goals
- Creating compelling storytelling content
- Content distribution channels and tactics
Lesson 4: Social Media Marketing for Nonprofits
- Utilizing social media platforms for nonprofit branding and engagement
- Strategies for community building and supporter activation
- Paid advertising and organic reach optimization
Lesson 5: Analytics & Measurement for Nonprofit Digital Marketing
- Key performance indicators (KPIs) for nonprofit digital marketing
- Tools for tracking and analyzing digital marketing campaigns
- Data-driven decision-making and optimization strategies
Lesson 6: Empowering Mastery: Tools for Digital Marketing Success
- Overview of essential tools and platforms for nonprofit digital marketing
- Integration of tools for email marketing, fundraising, volunteer management, etc.
- Case studies and practical applications of digital marketing tools
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.
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