Philanthropic Studies (Distance Learning) - PCert, PDip, MA

Overview

This programme is the UK’s first Master's in Philanthropic Studies. It is an innovative online course that builds on our expertise and teaching in civil society, fundraising, philanthropy, the third sector and volunteering.

Our programme meets demands for better higher educational provision for the charity workforce, as well as demands from donors for greater understanding of the meaning and purpose of philanthropy. It is delivered by academics trained in a wide range of relevant disciplines including social policy, business, history, sociology, geography, moral philosophy, anthropology, law and economics.

The programme also draws significantly on expertise from beyond the University, including teaching contributions from leading philanthropy experts, advisers, consultants, grant-makers, fundraisers and strategic philanthropists.

Our MA in Philanthropic Studies will be attractive to students seeking a high-level understanding of philanthropy and/or a career in the buoyant philanthropy sector, as well as to professionals seeking an opportunity to reflect on their practice.

The programme is entirely distance learning, with an optional one-day annual conference for all current, alumni and prospective students, held at our Canterbury campus (recorded for students who cannot attend in person).

All students on the Philanthropic Studies course pay two years of fees, regardless of whether they pursue the full MA, PG Diploma or PG certificate.

Research areas

The Centre for Philanthropy is one of the leading European academic centres for philanthropy research, teaching and public engagement. We conduct robust and relevant research in partnership with charity sector partners on a range of topics, including fundraising, major donors, giving circles, giving across the lifecourse, corporate philanthropy, and philanthropy’s relationship with social justice.

Applicants will normally have a minimum requirement of a 2:1 honours degree or higher in a social science or related subject. Applicants with good degrees in other subjects and experience working or volunteering in the philanthropic or charitable sectors will also be considered. In exceptional circumstances we will consider students with lower grade honours degrees if they can demonstrate significant experience working or volunteering in the philanthropic or charitable sectors. In exceptional circumstances we will consider students who do not have a degree if they can demonstrate significant experience working or volunteering in the philanthropy or charitable sectors. We may in these circumstances ask for examples of recent written work to help make admission decisions. All applicants are considered on an individual basis and additional qualifications, professional qualifications and relevant experience may also be taken into account when considering applications.