Program Overview

Postgraduate Diploma in Philanthropy and Resource Mobilisation

The Centre on African Philanthropy and Social Investment (CAPSI) at Wits Business School aims to build the skills of future leaders in philanthropy and related fields. This distance learning programme is designed for students or professionals seeking specialisation in this new field of study and for those wanting to contribute to the achievement of global development goals.

Programme Information

• Applications Open: 01 May 2025
• Applications Close: 30 November 2025
• Study mode: Part Time
• Duration: 1 year
• Format: Distance Learning / Online
• Fees: R100 155.00
• Academic Category: Specialist Degree

Programme Overview

The Postgraduate Diploma in Philanthropy and Resource Mobilisation is for students and professionals wanting to broaden their understanding of the field of philanthropy in the African context. It is for those seeking a specialist qualification in fundraising, advancement, and partnership building. This unique programme draws on the latest research in the field and provides an opportunity for you to develop critical thinking and leadership skills as well as core competencies as a manager in the philanthropy or non-profit sector.

Curriculum

The Postgraduate Diploma in Management in the field of Philanthropy and Resource Mobilisation is a one-year, full-time programme comprising six Core Courses and a choice of three Electives.

Core Courses:

1. Landscaping African Philanthropy: The theoretical basis for understanding the role and characteristic features of African philanthropy.
2. Organising and Managing Resource Mobilisation: An introduction to the foundational principles and practices of fundraising and resource mobilisation.
3. Measuring and Reporting Performance of Not-for-Profit Organisations: This course examines the various measuring/reporting conventions and best practice from both an African and global perspective, including financial reporting and impact investing.
4. Marketing and Communication in Contemporary Philanthropy: A comprehensive assessment of the principles of marketing and communication, as well as branding and risk management, in the context of African philanthropy.
5. Working with Communities: The theory and practice of matters relating to community work through the use of case studies in order to provide an understanding of community dynamics and capacity building.
6. Ethical Leadership: This course examines the theory and practice of matters relating to ethical leadership, including decision-making dilemmas, values, cultural influences, governance, and stakeholder engagement.

Electives (choose three):

• Philanthropy and Fundraising in African Educational Institutions
• Philanthropic Foundations
• Innovations in Philanthropy
• Philanthropy and Public Policy

Entry Requirements

• Bachelors degree (NQF 7).
• Upload Motivation letter
• Working experience is an advantage but not a requirement.
• Mathematics a level of competence equivalent to SA matric certificate.
• Acceptable GMAT, NMAT score OR WBS admissions test. (Please note: only shortlisted candidates will be invited to write the WBS admission test).
• SAQA Evaluation (International qualifications only) prior to application.
• Proof of English language proficiency (for students who have not studied at tertiary level in English).

Notes

• In exceptional cases, non-degreed individuals with working experience are considered.
• Fees are subject to review in January 2026.