MA Philanthropic Studies (Distance Learning)

University of Kent

United Kingdom, Canterbury

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University of Kent

United Kingdom , Canterbury

Key Facts

Program Level

Master by Course Work

Study Type

Part Time

Delivery

On Campus

Campuses

On Campus

Program Language

English

Start & Deadlines

Next Intake DeadlinesSeptember-2026

Apply to this program

Go to the official application for the university

Duration 2 year(s)

Next Intake September-2026

MA Philanthropic Studies (Distance Learning)

About

Overview

Gain a high-level understanding of philanthropy to advance your professional development or to gain knowledge and insights that will enable you to pursue a career in the rapidly expanding philanthropy sector. Our programme is designed so you can fit learning around your life and work commitments with a flexible course and a variety of study options (MA, PDip, PCert, and Standalone Modules). So whether your looks to take the first step in your career, or take a step further to reach a new level, our programme is your best way to get to wherever you want to go.

You'll benefit from internationally renowned academic expertise and guest speakers from beyond the University, including teaching contributions from leading philanthropy experts, advisers, consultants, grant-makers, fundraisers, and strategic philanthropists. Tutors include major donor expert Professor Beth Breeze (author of ‘Richer Lives: Why Rich People Give’) and Dr Alison Body (author of the 'Children and Charities: A Decade of Change'). All tutors have a practitioner background and are frequent contributors to charity sector and media debates.

Kent is a real leader in the field, this programme is the first Master's in Philanthropic Studies in the UK, so you can be assured that our experts will help bring you to the very forefront of the field, keeping your up to date with all the latest developments, so you can make a real impact in your career, and in society as a whole.

Standalone modules

It is possible to study certain individual modules from the MA on a Standalone basis. They provide a taster and introduction to studying Philanthropic Studies, and if you wish to continue studying, you can use the credits from your taster modules to work towards a qualification in Philanthropic Studies (PCert, PDip or MA). Costs for standalone modules can be found on the Kent Online store (please note that you must submit an application (link below) before paying for a module on the online store).

Apply to study a Standalone module

Apprenticeship

If you work with, or manage, new or junior fundraisers we also offer the Fundraiser apprenticeship to meet their needs for evidence-based training from leaders in the field with extensive practical experience. Find out more here.

Requirements

Entry Requirements

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.
Overseas students whose first language is not English will need to provide evidence that they have sufficient skills to undertake an intensive course of studies in English (i.e. average 7.0 in IELTs test). Candidates will receive a conditional offer with a 6.5 test score in IELTS.

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.

International students

Please see our International Student website for entry requirements by country and other relevant information. Due to visa restrictions, students who require a student visa to study cannot study part-time unless undertaking a distance or blended-learning programme with no on-campus provision.

English language entry requirements

This course requires a Very Good level of English language, equivalent to a high B2 on CEFR.

Details on how to meet this requirement can be found on our English Language requirements webpage.

Examples:

IELTS 6.5 with a minimum of 5.5 in each component

PTE Academic 67 with a minimum of 59 in each sub-test

A degree from the UK

A degree from a Majority English Speaking Country

Please note that if you are required to meet an English language condition, we offer a number of pre-sessional courses in English for Academic Purposes through Kent International Pathways.

Career

Your future

Understanding philanthropy is a crucial skill for anyone aspiring to be effective in a role in a charity or grant-making body or as a philanthropist. The knowledge and skills that you gain through this Master's programme will equip you with an essential and highly practical understanding of the history, methodologies and impact of philanthropic activity.

The distance learning delivery of the Master’s programme enables you to fit learning around your life and work commitments and you have the chance to apply your knowledge as you progress. Each cohort contains a unique mix of experiences and professions, providing a valuable opportunity for information exchange and networking, so you can make rapid progress in your career, without having to take time out.

Our expert academics - who are leaders in the field - are also excellent teachers, who will able to ensure you develop the skills, knowledge and confidence to thrive after you graduate. Whether you are looking to break into the sector, or looking for that extra edge to take the next step in your career, we'll make sure you can get to where you want to go, and hit the ground running when you get there.

Career support

Whether you want to get ahead in your current career, change lanes, or kickstart a new one – we are here to help you realise your ambition.