The Master of Arts in Philanthropic Studies at Indiana University is the first master's degree program in the United States to focus on the history, culture, and values of philanthropy. While other programs focus on the "how" of nonprofit management, this program focuses on the "why" - the social, cultural, political, and economic roles played by philanthropy and nonprofit organizations in both contemporary and historical settings.
It offers students gateway to understanding the social, cultural, political, and economic roles played by philanthropy and nonprofit organizations and facilities broad understanding that prepares graduates for leadership roles and deeper, more thoughtful and engaged 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.
Our program enables you to gain the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue further graduate study in relevant fields or to enter the field as a nonprofit professional. Investigate the broader theoretical issues of philanthropy and your area of specialization from a variety of disciplinary and interdisciplinary perspectives.
The M.A. in Philanthropic Studies is a 36-credit-hour graduate program that includes 24 hours of course work central to the study of philanthropy, 6 hours of elective courses and six hours of thesis work or courses in lieu of thesis option, and 3 hours of internship.
Application Deadlines
Those students who are not U.S. citizens must submit their application materials no later than January 1. Students seeking financial aid must apply by February 15th. The priority deadline for all others is April 15, but the School will accept applications until July 15, if space is available.
The deadline for Spring admission is November 15. International applicants must apply by October 15. Please note: Spring admission is only recommended for applicants who have completed SPEA V521/PHST P521, "The Nonprofit and Voluntary Sector" course OR any equivalent graduate level introductory course in Nonprofit Management or Philanthropic studies from another university. If you have any questions about this policy, please contact Student Services.
Please submit all required documentation to the Office of Student Services by the appropriate application deadline.
Admission Requirements
Prior Academic Work: A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university is required with a minimum of a 3.0 overall grade point average (on a scale of 4.0), and a minimum of a 3.0 average in your major field. Applicants with a grade point average below 3.0 may be considered for conditional admission.
- Official undergraduate and graduate transcripts should be mailed to: Student Services, Lilly Family School of Philanthropy, 550 W. North St, #301, Indianapolis, IN 46202.
Results of the Graduate Record Examination General Test: Applicants are expected to demonstrate an appropriate level of proficiency on the GRE or a comparable proficiency test (i.e., GMAT, LSAT). Results from the Graduate Record Examination taken within the past five years are required.
- Please use the IUPUI code R1325
Recommendations: Three letters of recommendation to the Admissions Committee are required. Preference will be given to those candidates who can demonstrate ability to successfully perform academic work. In selecting your recommenders, try to select those people who can best speak to indications of your ability to successfully do academic work. If a recommender is not in an academic environment, encourage him/her to assess your knowledge, skills, and abilities as they relate to your ability to do academic work.
Statement of Purpose: Preference will be given to those candidates whose goals and interests, broadly speaking, match those of the Master of Arts in Philanthropic Studies and its curriculum.
Resume: Please send updated resume to the Office of Student Services.
Graduate Record Examination
Applicants should demonstrate an appropriate level of proficiency on the GRE. An official report of the results is required for admission. Computer-Based Testing is conducted year-round by appointment through designated test centers. Information on the GRE is generally available at a local college or university, or by calling Educational Testing Service at (800) GRE-CALL.
Application Information For International Students
- Online Application
- English Proficiency Verification
- Official Academic Records
- Test Scores
- Financial Support Agreement and Expenses
- Immigration Documentation
- Letters of Recommendation
- Information for F1/J1/F2/B2 visa holders:
Find more information for international students.
Expected Costs
Fees for the 2013-2014 academic year are $957.70 per credit hour for out-of-state students and $324.56 per credit hour for Indiana residents. Rates are subject to change by the Indiana University Board of Trustees.
Financial Aid
A number of fellowships, assistantships, and scholarships are available to graduate students in Philanthropic Studies. Complete applications must be submitted by February 15th for scholarship consideration. More information here.
Last Updated: July 2015.
The Graduate Certificate in Philanthropic Studies provides students with education in the field of Philanthropic Studies. The degree program introduces students to the critical issues and values of philanthropic practices. It is designed for those who have an interest, and perhaps career need, for this education but who do not wish to pursue an M.A. or Ph.D. in Philanthropic Studies. It will provide opportunities both for students interested in learning more about the field as well as career professionals looking to expand their knowledge. The certificate may be completed on its own or in conjunction with other graduate study, e.g. Museum Studies, Public Affairs.
Admission Eligibility
The student must have a bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited college or university to apply.
Application
Those interested should apply online through the IUPUI graduate school, but no letters of recommendation or GRE are required. Applicants whose native language is not English must pass the TOEFL with a score of 550 or higher. There will be spring and fall deadlines.
Please submit a resume with a cover letter stating why you are interested in the PHST graduate certificate.
Program Restrictions
- Students enrolled in a certificate program must complete it within 12 credit hours of approved course work with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 (B). Failure to do so results in automatic dismissal from the certificate program.
- Students who have completed more than two PHST graduate courses must request permission to apply.
- Transfer credit, course substitutions, or course waivers are not accepted.
- Admission to or successful completion of a certificate program does not guarantee subsequent admission to a PHST graduate degree program.
- Students enrolled in the certificate program who apply to PHST's graduate degree programs must meet all existing admission requirements. If a student has a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or better at the completion of the certificate, the student can request a waiver of the GRE requirement in applying to the M.A.
- Students must complete the certificate in five years.