2010 News
- News Archive
More Charity Managers Pursuing Postgraduate Study
More charity managers are entering postgraduate study to equip them for the challenges of leading diverse organisations during difficult times. The MA degree in Charity Management at St Mary’s University College, Twickenham has seen a steady increase in senior managers signing up for postgraduate study since the course started a year ago.
Not only are more managers using the degree course to benefit their charities, but they are increasingly selecting charity-specific postgraduate study to enhance their own career prospects during a difficult time for the sector.
“The course is attracting senior managers from across the sector. We are noticing an increase in interest from people who are currently volunteers, or new to the sector, who want to continue their professional careers as senior managers in the charity environment. They feel that they want to be in a position to compete for the best jobs and are prepared to commit two years of part-time study to achieve their goals,” said Programme Director Dr Geoff Paul.
The MA in Charity Management was introduced by St Mary’s in 2008 as a result of a need expressed by managers who often found it difficult to attend full-time training, but were eager to gain a high quality management degree specifically aimed at the charity sector. The degree course is academically vigorous but also very practical and students are able to use their new skills immediately.
"As a recently appointed manager working in the third sector, I have found the MA course at St Mary's to be highly relevant and informative. The learning has great practical application, whilst leaving suitable space to consider a wide range of theoretical knowledge and thinking," said Chief Officer of the Richmond Youth Partnership, David Lemon.
The impact on the careers of students has been surprisingly swift, with some being promoted within months of starting the degree. One manager in the first group was promoted within the first six months and two volunteers were offered full-time positions after completing the first year.
The course is also proving to be a hit with Trustees in charity management with one student now entering her second year already selected to take over the running of her charity within the next year. The degree course consists of core modules in Charity Governance, Charity Management, and Finance and Investment, and is complemented by optional modules in Marketing and Fundraising, Strategic Management and HRM and Employment Law.
