Post Graduate Opportunities in Voluntary Sector Studies by Distance Learning

The Department is pleased to offer postgraduate studies to follow on from its successful offerings at the undergraduate level. The Post Graduate Diploma - leading to a Masters (MA) programme (subject to MA course validation) is designed for people who want to develop and improve their knowledge and work in the not-for-profit, non-governmental, non-profit, third, community and voluntary sector. It is intended to develop students' knowledge, skills and abilities and their capability to combine contemporary theory with practical knowledge. Students are expected to engage critically with a range of issues related to the role of the voluntary sector in society and to be working in and with the voluntary/not-for-profit sector. They should develop the skills and abilities to influence change within the voluntary sector and wider public policy debates, based on sound academic knowledge and reflection on their practical experience.

The post graduate programme is academically rigorous, requiring both academic critical thinking and reflective application of learning to the student's own experience and practice. Applications are welcomed from graduates (BA or BSc level) with a first-class or upper second-class degree in Voluntary Sector Studies, social science, management, psychology, or another relevant discipline. In addition, students would normally be expected to have some experience in the voluntary sector, in order to bring practice based knowledge to the course. Students who do not have the required degree but can otherwise demonstrate the required skills and experience may also be admitted to the course by agreement.

The programme is designed to be relevant to those involved with or working in voluntary organisations. It is intended to contribute to the student's personal development and their understanding and engagement in the voluntary sector and wider community, making a real contribution to tackling the problems and issues associated with change in public policy and the voluntary sector. While a student's motivation might be their independent interest in scholarship in this area, the course would contribute to the development of careers within not-for-profit and voluntary organisations and organisations involved in public and social policy and civic activity and change. The course also develops skills and network building, which are equally vital to the student's future development.

For further information, please see the MA Outline Page or contact Dr. Rachel Casiday