Career roadmap
How to Become a Fundraiser
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a fundraiser, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a fundraiser: (1) earn a bachelor’s degree, (2) volunteer or intern, (3) get an entry role, (4) build a track record, (5) advance. Most people need about 4 years. BLS lists “bachelor's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a fundraiser
Earn a bachelor’s degree
Communications or related.
Volunteer or intern
Help with events and appeals.
Get an entry role
Development assistant or coordinator.
Build a track record
Raise and steward gifts.
Advance
Major gifts or development director.
Education and training requirements
A bachelor’s degree is typical in communications, marketing, nonprofit management or a related field.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Bachelor's degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | 4 years |
Certifications and licenses
- Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE): Leading fundraising credential.
- Grant Professional Certified (GPC): Grant credential.
- Certificate in Fundraising Management: University programs.
- Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy (CAP): Planned giving credential.
Skills to build now
Start with donor research, solicitation, and grant writing, and practice relationship building and persuasion. Learning the fundraiser vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Development Assistant: Support fundraising.
- Development Officer: Raise gifts.
- Major Gifts Officer: Lead large gifts.
- Development Director: Lead fundraising.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Fundraiser training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
Do fundraisers need a degree?
A bachelor’s degree is typical.
How long does it take to become a fundraiser?
Most people need about 4 years of training. A bachelor’s degree is typical in communications, marketing, nonprofit management or a related field.
Do you need a degree to be a fundraiser?
Usually, yes. BLS lists a bachelor's degree as the typical entry-level education, although skills, certifications and experience can sometimes substitute.
What certifications are available for fundraisers?
Common credentials include Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE), Grant Professional Certified (GPC), Certificate in Fundraising Management, and Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy (CAP). Requirements vary by state and employer.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 13-1131 (Fundraisers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Fundraisers (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.