Philanthropic Studies, MA
Master of Arts
There are more than 1.6 million nonprofit organizations in the US alone, and these organizations need well-prepared leaders and staff to continue making an impact on millions of lives across the globe. A degree in philanthropic studies prepares you to work in fundraising, grant making, and program management, across a broad range of fields including religion, education, social services, health, arts and culture, animals, the environment, developing countries, and many other worthwhile causes.
The IU Online Master of Arts in Philanthropic Studies--from the world's first school of philanthropy--is a gateway to understanding the social, cultural, political, and economic roles played by philanthropy and nonprofit organizations, and facilitates broad understanding that prepares graduates for leadership practice within the nonprofit sector. Students gain experience in understanding and applying cutting-edge research and develop critical thinking skills about the complex issues confronting the nonprofit sector.
As a student in the program, you explore such topics as the nonprofit and voluntary sectors, civil society and philanthropy, history of American philanthropy, and ethics and values of philanthropy. You also complete an internship in philanthropic studies.
Your IU Online MA in Philanthropic Studies prepares you for such careers as:
- Director of gift planning
- Fundraising consultant
- Principal gifts officer
- Development director
- Director of alumni relations
- Director of major gifts and planned giving
- Annual giving director
Degree Requirements
To graduate with the MA in Philanthropic Studies, you must complete 36 credit hours.
Requirements are broken down as follows:
- Philanthropic studies core courses (27 credit hours)
- Elective courses OR master's thesis option (9 credit hours)