Diploma in Fundraising - Virtual Delivery (Starting 25th June 2024)

This qualification focuses on developing in-depth knowledge of fundraising practice and contains some elements of leadership and strategy. It is designed for those whose roles are concerned with developing practice, leadership, and strategic approaches in fundraising. As a guide you have a minimum of three years fundraising experience with a minimum of eighteen months in a paid position. You will also be actively engaged in a managerial or leadership role that includes fundraising. You will be employed in an organisation at present who will support you to complete the assessments for the course. 

The Diploma course is equivalent to a Level 5 programme and is similar in level and assessment to the second year of a traditional full-time degree. 

Please be aware that we will ask for your supporting organisations details and we may contact them.

You will be enabled to become a more successful, confident and strategic fundraising manager and leader. In addition to consolidating your existing fundraising knowledge you can learn and understand how to apply proven techniques to enhance your own and your team's performance and development. These skills will support you in managing and leading the sustainable development and growth of your organisation's fundraising income streams.

This unit examines the definition, evolution and role of direct response, individual giving behaviour, direct response planning, testing, fundraising media, e-fundraising, the online communications mix, best practice and cost structures and the characteristics of effective fundraising websites.

This unit looks at forms of major gifts, the principles of prospect research, the institutional readiness, systems and processes to support major gift fundraising. In addition to this the categories and characteristics of capital campaigns will also be studied. This will include use and content of feasibility studies and monitoring and evaluation as well as the current trends of legacy giving, legacy solicitation methods, joint promotions and the role of third-party partners.

This unit examines the definition, evolution and role of direct response, individual giving behaviour, direct response planning, testing, fundraising media, e-fundraising, the online communications mix, best practice and cost structures and the characteristics of effective fundraising websites.

This unit explores the forms and motives of support, CSR, organisational giving behaviour and relationship development. It will look at the management of payroll giving in the overall fundraising mix, identification of needs appropriate for grant support and the difference between restricted and unrestricted funds. It will also examine reporting requirements and organisational behaviour.

This unit develops your understanding and skills. We will explore core issues for effective, evidence based and outcome/impact-orientated leadership. Areas such as motivation at work, performance appraisal retention of staff and leadership will be examined. The module also explores reasons, methods and characteristics of an effective appraisal systems, volunteer recruitment and retention. It also examines volunteer induction and training, key volunteer legislation, reasons for volunteer attrition and strategies to prevent this.