Master of Arts in Philanthropic Studies
We offer the first master's degree in the nation that focuses on philanthropy's history, culture and values. While other programs focus on the "how" of nonprofit management, we focus on the "why"—the social, cultural, political and economic roles philanthropy has played through history.
Through our program, you'll gain the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue further graduate study or to enter the field as a nonprofit professional. You'll learn about the broader theories of philanthropy and your area of interest from a variety of 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, 9 electives and research (thesis or coursework.)
Required Core Courses (15 credits)
The 15 credits of core courses will normally include those listed below:
- Nonprofit and Voluntary Sector: PHST-P521, 3 credits
- Civil Society and Philanthropy: PHST-P523, 3 credits
- History of Philanthropy: HIST-H516, 3 credits OR History of Philanthropy: PHST-P515, 3 credits
- Ethics and Values of Philanthropy: PHIL-P542, 3 credits
- Internship in Philanthropic Studies: PHST-P590, 3 credits
Policy course - take one (3 credits)
- Nonprofit Economy and Public Policy: ECON-E514, 3 credits
- Law of Nonprofit Organizations: PHST-P535, 3 credits
Human & Financial Resources courses (6 Credits)
- Principles and Techniques of Fundraising: PHST-P558, 3 credits
- Grant Making and the Role of Foundations: PHST-P557, 3 credits
Comparative course - take one (3 credits)
- Cross-Cultural Dimensions of Philanthropy: PHST-P527, 3 credits
- Religion and Philanthropy: REL-R539, 3 credits
- Variable Topics: PHST-P530, 3 credits
Electives (3 credits)
Research (6 credits)
- Thesis 6 credits, (or)
- One Elecive Research and one Elective, 6 credits
Last Updated: February, 2016