Philanthropic Studies (Distance Learning), MA, PG Cert, PG Dip, University of Kent

the United Kingdom

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Study options for this course

The award	How you will study	Study duration	Course start	Domestic course fees	International course fees
MA, PG Cert, PG Dip	Part-time, Distance	2 years	September	0	find out

About Philanthropic Studies (Distance Learning), MA, PG Cert, PG Dip - at University of Kent

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 Prof 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.

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

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.

Learn more about Philanthropic Studies (Distance Learning), MA, PG Cert, PG Dip - at University of Kent

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Entry requirements

Contact University of Kent to find course entry requirements.

Fees, Funding and Scholarships at University of Kent

Kent offers a range of funding opportunities, including full awards to support doctoral researchers and students undertaking a taught Master’s at our locations in the UK and Europe. We also offer several scholarships to support our international students including GREAT British Council and Chevening Scholarship awards. Our Research Council doctoral training partnerships give you access to a range of funding and research networks. Check out our bursaries and scholarships and see if you’re eligible.

For students starting a postgraduate taught course in  January 2025 or September 2025  at one of our UK campuses, we have several scholarships available. Check if you are eligible to apply and get more information on our scholarship’s webpages

Student reviews of University of Kent

Find out what students say about University of Kent

Inspirational teaching - Patrique Tanque from Brazil is studying for a BSc in Forensic Chemistry.

“Choosing Kent was an easy decision. The forensic programmes are ranked among the best in the UK and have a high graduate employment rate.

“The teachers bring fresh ideas and up-to-date materials from real cases to enrich the lectures. They are keen to help out and always make sure we are getting plenty of support.

“I was very fortunate to be awarded an International Scholarship, which meant I could dedicate myself to my studies.”

Academic excellence - Stephanie Bourgeois from France is studying for a BSc in Biochemistry.

“I like the approach to teaching here; academics are happy to answer questions and to interact with students. I find the lectures very motivational, they pique your curiosity and for me the exciting bit is going to the library and pursuing the things you are interested in.

“The lecturers at Kent are excellent. You get to know them well and, as you move through the course, they are able to guide you towards projects, ideas or career paths that they think you will like.”

Specialist research - Sally Gao from China is studying for a PhD in Electronic Engineering.

“I have been very lucky with my supervisor, Professor Yong Yan, who is a world-class expert and the first IEEE Fellow in the UK in instrumentation and measurement.

“Professor Yong Yan has helped me to become a better researcher. I am inspired by his novel ideas and constructive suggestions. Under his supervision, my confidence has grown through such milestones as my first set of experiments, writing my first research paper and attending my first conference.”