University of Kent

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

University of KentAdditional locations (see overview), United Kingdom

Course overview

Shape how giving changes the world. The MA Philanthropic Studies at Kent is the UK’s first and only Master’s dedicated to exploring the theory, values and practice of philanthropy. Designed for working professionals, the course is delivered entirely online, so you can gain a critical and strategic understanding of giving while balancing your studies with your career.

You’ll engage with questions about why people give, how to lead change, and what impact really means. You’ll be taught by experts in the field. The curriculum is rooted in real-world application, drawing on disciplines from social policy and sociology to law and business.

You’ll also join an engaged cohort of practitioners and connect through our optional annual conference on campus. Whether you’re already leading change in the non-profit sector or looking to make a meaningful move into it, this course will deepen your insight, strengthen your strategy, and expand your network.

Key highlights

  • UK's first and only Master's dedicated to philanthropy
  • Delivered entirely online, designed for working professionals
  • Taught by experts in the field of philanthropy
  • Draws on social policy, sociology, law and business
  • Optional annual on-campus conference with a cohort of practitioners
  • Explores why people give, leading change and measuring impact

Entry requirements

  • Degree: 2:1 — or above

Scholarships

  • Chevening Scholarships

  • Christine and Ian Bolt Scholarship

    Scholarship value up to £10,000.

  • Kent Business School Beaconhouse PG Progression Scholarship

    Tuition fee discount scholarship of £6,000.

    Up to £6,000

  • Kent Business School Dean's Excellence Scholarship Award

    Awards of up to £3,000

  • Kent Business School MBA Scholarship

    50% off Tuition Fee.

    Up to 50% of fees

  • Kent Graduate Scholarship

    20% fee reduction for post-graduate taught programmes at the University of Kent.

    Up to 20% of fees

  • Kent International Scholarship Postgraduate Taught

    Scholarship value - £5000

    Up to £5,000

  • Kent International Scholarship Postgraduate Taught (KBS)

    Scholarship value £3000

    Up to £3,000

  • Kent LLM Solicitors’ Practice Scholarship (Canterbury)

    £2,000 tuition fee discount (Home Students); £2,000 tuition fee discount (Overseas Students).

    Up to £2,000

  • Sasha Roberts Scholarship

    £3,000 stipend per annum split into two payments of £1,500 in October and January.

    Up to £3,000

  • The “Ambition” Scholarship for University of Kent Graduates

    £1,500 for Full Time UK students; £750 per year for Part Time UK students; £3,000 for Full Time Overseas students.

  • The CAMEMS Scholarship

    £3,000 stipend per annum split into two payments of £1,500 in October and January.

    Up to £3,000

  • The Widening Participation Ambition Scholarship for University of Kent Graduates

    £5,000 for UK students (£2,500 per year for part time students).

Careers this course leads to

  • Fundraising Manager
  • Philanthropy Adviser
  • Grants Manager
  • Charity Director
  • Major Gifts Officer
  • Foundation Programme Officer

Admission

Applications are made through AHZ at no cost. Share your transcripts, English test scores and personal statement, and your AHZ Counsellor will review your profile, submit your application to University of Kent, and guide you through interview, offer, CAS and visa — right up to enrolment.

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