Overview

The Philanthropy and Nonprofit Leadership programme at Carleton University provides students with the advanced skills required to lead and manage social purpose organisations. This curriculum is specifically designed to address the evolving challenges within the nonprofit sector and the broader landscape of global philanthropy.

Students engage with a rigorous academic framework that combines theoretical knowledge with practical applications. The programme focuses on developing strategic thinkers who can navigate the complexities of governance, fundraising, and social innovation within diverse community contexts.

By participating in this course, individuals gain a deep understanding of the ethical and operational dimensions of the third sector.

Why Philanthropy and Nonprofit Leadership at Carleton University?

Carleton University offers a distinctive environment for studying philanthropy, being home to one of the first comprehensive programmes of its kind in Canada. The institution provides students with access to a network of experts and practitioners who are actively shaping the future of the social sector.

The university's location and strong ties to national and international organisations offer unique opportunities for engagement with policy-makers and sector leaders. Students benefit from a curriculum that is constantly updated to reflect the latest trends in social investment and community leadership.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: CAD 24473 per year
National fee: CAD 10106 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

Philanthropy and Nonprofit Leadership
Social Innovation
Governance and Strategic Planning
Fundraising and Development
Financial Management for Nonprofits
Policy and Advocacy
Organisational Behaviour
Research Methods

Careers with Philanthropy and Nonprofit Leadership

Graduates of this programme are well-equipped for leadership positions across a variety of social purpose organisations. Many alumni pursue successful careers as executive directors, development officers, and strategic consultants within the charitable sector.

The skills acquired also prepare students for roles in corporate social responsibility departments, community foundations, and international non-governmental organisations. The programme focuses on creating versatile professionals capable of managing complex social initiatives and driving meaningful change.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Philanthropy

Policy and Legal Environment

Finances for Philanthropy and the Nonprofit Sector

Governance and Leadership

Organizational Development

Research Methods

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 20 months
Part-time
- 40 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-05-06 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-15 00:00:00 , National
- Apply before 2026-12-01 00:00:00 , International

Language

English

TOEFL^® IBT

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Credits

6 alternative credits

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Ottawa, Canada

Disciplines

Corporate Social Responsibility Leadership View 6 other Masters in Corporate Social Responsibility in Canada

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Academic requirements

GPA

B+

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT

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Other requirements

General requirements

A bachelor’s degree, with a wide variety of disciplines with an average of B+ or higher. Mid-career applicants with a minimum of seven years working experience in the nonprofit/philanthropic sector will also be considered.

Student Insurance via Studyportals Partner

Make sure to cover your health, travel, and stay while studying abroad. Even global coverages can miss important items like Additional medical costs, Repatriation, Liability etc. Make sure your student insurance covers your needs.

Studyportals partnered with Aon to provide you with the best affordable student insurance, for a carefree experience away from home.

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Starting from €0.53/day, free cancellation any time.

Remember, countries and universities may have specific insurance requirements. To learn more about how student insurance work at Carleton University and/or in Canada, please visit Student Insurance Portal.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

24473 CAD / year

≈ 24473 CAD / year
Domestic Applies to you

Applies to you

Citizens or residents

10106 CAD / year

≈ 10106 CAD / year

Additional Details

Ontario Tuition Fee: 8338 CAD per year

Living costs

Ottawa

Canada

1168 - 1925 CAD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Philanthropy and Nonprofit Leadership.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

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