Master of Philanthropy and Nonprofit Leadership

Canada's first Master of Philanthropy and Nonprofit Leadership degree (MPNL) prepares graduates to be innovators and leaders in nonprofits, social enterprises, philanthropic foundations, development offices, and in the governments, financial institutions and businesses that interact with them. It is designed for both full-time students who aspire to be change-makers in this field as well as for experienced professionals studying part-time for professional development. The program begins in July with an intensive summer institute and may be taken at a distance in a hybrid format or on campus. We also offer a shorter graduate diploma geared at working professionals and a professional entry master's with reduced program requirements for those who qualify.

Required application documents:
Transcript(s): all post-secondary transcripts are required.
Two reference letters should come from people who can comment on your academic preparation and potential for graduate study in philanthropy and nonprofit leadership. The design of the Referee Appraisal Form (emailed to your referees after you submit your application on Carleton 360) anticipates that theyll be university faculty members who have recently taught or supervised your academic work. If you have been away from university for some time, you may select non-academic referees who are familiar with your professional work.
A Statement of Intent must include two distinct sections with the following details:
1) A Statement of Academic Research Interest (not to exceed one page, single-spaced). It should outline your past academic interests and accomplishments, and why youre interested in pursuing this graduate program, e.g., what drew you to the program and why you feel the program would be a good fit for you.
2) A Statement of Professional Interest (not to exceed one page, single-spaced). It should give an overview of how your professional or volunteer experience is relevant to the MPNL or DPNL program, and should identify your personal and professional goals and indicate how the program might help you in realizing these.
Curriculum vitae: Your CV or resume should provide biographical information, including your education, professional experience, voluntary activities and noteworthy achievements.
A Writing Sample of original academic or professional written work from the past year for which you are exclusively responsible. The sample shouldnt exceed 20 pages, double-spaced. It could be a recent term paper, a chapter from a research essay, or an excerpt from a report.
Language Proficiency (ESL Test Scores) if applicable: TOEFL IBT: 86 (22 in writing and speaking, 20 in reading and listening), TOEFL PBT: 580, CAEL: 70, IETLS: 7.0.