M.A. Brochure

Why a Master's Degree in Philanthropic Studies?

The M.A. in Philanthropic Studies prepares graduates to lead with intention and impact. Unlike traditional nonprofit management programs that emphasize the "how," our curriculum centers on the "why"—examing the social, cultural, political, and economic roles of philanthropy across history and in today's world.

As the world's first school dedicated solely to the study of philanthropy, the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy provides a one-of-a-kind learning experience—grounded in research, powered by practice, and guided by world-class faculty. Graduates emerge as more articulate, intentional, and informed leaders in both their personal and professional philanthropic efforts.

Kathi Badertscher, Assistant Dean of Academic Programs

"The master's program at the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy is for anyone who wants to become more informed and more intentional in their personal or professional philanthropy. People join us from all over the world and different places in their career. They are reflecting on their own philanthropy as a donor, as a grant maker, as a fundraiser, board member or community volunteer. We examine the role of the individual and how they enact their generosity in a lot of different ways in a community. It may or may not be through a formal organization. We think about why nonprofit organizations form in the first place...and there are all sorts of reasons."

Kathi Badertscher
Assistant Dean of Academic Programs

Watch Kathi's video

Built for every stage of your journey

Who is this program for?

Our students bring a range of perspectives:

Recent graduates eager to deepen their studies and strengthen their career readiness.

Experienced professionals seeking advanced training to expand their impact, elevate their organization's mission, and refine their personal philanthropy.

Career changers exploring new opportunites in the nonprofit, corporate, or philanthropic sectors.

No matter your path, this program equips you with the perspective, skills, and network to thrive.

It was a game changer for me, it was pivotal.

Mason Rummel, M.A. '14, CEO of James Graham Brown Foundation
Read Mason's story

Students in the M.A. in Philanthropic Studies program collaborate and build community while learning at IU Indianapolis.

Turn knowledge into impact

Our master's curriculum combines big-picture thinking with practical application, giving you both the knowledge and the skills to lead in nonprofits, foundations, government, and beyond. With 27 hours of core courses and 9 hours of electives, or a thesis option. You'll graduate ready to lead with clarity and purpose.

Lessons outside the classroom

We treat field exploration outside of the classroom as essential to every student's understanding—applying what you've learned to hands-on experience. Students have the opportunity to participate in internships and study abroad programs.

As home to more than 17,000 non-profit organizations, there's no better philanthropy lab than Indianapolis anywhere in the world.

Sarah Nathan, PH.D. '13, Indianapolis

Designed to fit your life

Graduate school is a big commitment—but it doesn't have to mean putting the rest of your life on hold.

Our program is built for flexibility:

Fully online: Complete your degree from anywhere while balancing work and family.

Hybrid summer intensives: Pair online learning with a one-week, in-person experience in Indianapolis to connect face-to-face with faculty and peers.

On-campus: Full-time, on-campus students have the opportunity to serve as a graduate assistant.

Pace that works: Full-time students finish in as little as two years; part-time students in two to three.

Every step of the way, you'll find support—from faculty invested in your success, to advisors who guide you through courses and career planning, to peers who become a professional network for life.

Ben Grande, M.A. '22, Director of Philanthropy at Glick Philanthropies

"The faculty and staff supported me. They understand where students are coming from. I was working full-time, I had three young kids at home, and civic commitments. Trying to balance coursework with all that at the start seemed like a very daunting task, but through the support provided, it was manageable."

Ben Grande, M.A. '22
Director of Philanthropy at Glick Philanthropies

Learn more about Ben's story

A flexible entry point

Want to test the waters before pursuing a master's? The Graduate Certificate in Philanthropic Studies offers a shorter, stackable option.

  • Requires just four online courses
  • Can be completed in less than one year
  • All credits transfer seamlessly into the master's program
  • Ideal for professionals who want to add a credential or deepen their expertise

Whether you use it to boost employability, explore a new career, or prepare for graduate study, the certificate is a powerful stepping stone.

Liz Greene, current M.A. student, Development Officer- Grants at Sheltering Wings

"Starting my graduate certificate and then actually completing the program was a game changer for me professionally. Before I started the program, I would apply for philanthropic fundraising jobs and the only answer I would get back was, 'Thank you for applying. We're going with someone else.' I didn't even get an interview. After completing the program, I began getting a lot of interviews."

Liz Greene, current M.A. student
Development Officer- Grants at Sheltering Wings

Learn more about Liz's story

Learn from leaders, join a global community

Our faculty are among the world's leading scholars and practitioners in philanthropy, representing disciplines such as economics, sociology, history, and religious studies. They shape the field through groundbreaking research and bring that expertise directly into the classroom.

You'll also join a global community of students. Each year, we welcome learners from across the U.S. and around the world—creating opportunities to engage with philanthropy from multiple cultural and global perspectives.

Whether you're taking classes in person, online, or through our hybrid format, you'll receive the same rigorous degree—taught by the same expert faculty—across all learning platforms.

Salma Taman, M.A. ’25, Development Director at Pattern

"The faculty and staff not only helped me discover the path I want to pursue but also connected me with a role that perfectly aligns with my passions and interests. Along the way, I've gained a community of scholars and practitioners who inspire me every single day. I'm deeply grateful, because this has been so much more than a degree."

Salma Taman
Development Director at Pattern

Learn more about Salma's story

MA students on IU Indianapolis campus.

Investing in your future

Earning your degree is an investment—but it's one you don't have to make alone.

  • Scholarships available to qualified students.
  • Full-time on-campus students starting in the fall semester are eligible for graduate assistantships that provide a stipend and a valuable professional experience.