Advancing the understanding and practice of philanthropy

As the world’s first school of philanthropy, we provide professional education and indispensable research to life-long learners and leaders in the field. We prepare the next wave of changemakers through our experience-driven degree programs.

phi·​lan·​thro·​py • noun

  • goodwill to fellow members of the human race
  • active effort to promote human welfare
  • an act or gift done or made for humanitarian purposes
  • an organization distributing or supported by funds set aside for humanitarian purposes
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Fostering philanthropic leadership

We offer the world’s first undergraduate and doctoral degrees in philanthropic studies, as well as a master’s degree and graduate certificate programs that you can complete in person or online. If you have served as a senior leader for the public good, our PhilD is the world’s first professional doctorate for philanthropic and nonprofit professionals.

Explore our degree programs
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Strengthening fundraising in the field

Our professional development arm—The Fund Raising School (TFRS)—provides learning opportunities for philanthropy practitioners. We offer 22 courses, four certificates, free and ticketed webinars, and customized training designed to help you and your organization. Our popular weekly First Day podcast provides news, insight, and research about fundraising and philanthropy.

TFRS courses and resources
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Cutting-edge research

Our in-house research staff, institutes, and faculty identify emerging trends and provide important insights to increase the understanding of philanthropy in Indiana, the United States, and worldwide. We seek to advance the practices of giving, volunteering, fundraising, and nonprofit organization management through our timely, topical, and relevant research.

See new and ongoing research