RSVP for “Philanthropy & Democracy”

A unique program in Canada

The Master of Philanthropy and Nonprofit Leadership (MPNL) program is the only graduate curriculum in Canada that offers specialized skills for leadership positions in the philanthropic and nonprofit sector. Housed in Canada’s oldest and largest School of Public Policy and Administration, the MPNL program and its sister program, the Graduate Diploma in Philanthropy and Nonprofit Leadership (DPNL) program, are designed for both experienced and aspiring professionals. The programs benefit from innovative research by faculty, fellows, and post-doctoral and doctoral students.

What both programs offer:

• A versatile set of skills, including leadership, strategy, financial management, and fundraising.
• A blend of executive-style, online courses, allowing students to study while working and remaining in their communities during the program. (They come to Ottawa for our two-week, in-person Summer Institute.).
• An opportunity to engage with research and sector professionals to think critically about how to advance social and organizational change.
• Experiential, professional learning opportunities that prepare students to attain leadership-track positions.
• Networks of graduates and experienced professionals to support career development.

Benson Wong Chulasewok, a 2026 MPNL student, talks about the program:

He began his career in marketing, leading multicultural initiatives for major Canadian telecom companies and later, worked at a hospital foundation as a Community Engagement Officer — and he uses music and his vocal-coach experience for connection, expression and engagement in his philanthropic work.

Carleton University is situated on unceded Algonquin territory beside the Rideau Canal, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.