The second session of Philanthropy University kicks off today, building on last year’s strong debut of the free, online course program designed for those working in the social sector.
After launching six months ago, more than 200,000 people worldwide have enrolled in free online courses offered through Philanthropy University.
“Everybody was floored by the overwhelming response,” says Ben Mangan, executive director of the Center for Social Sector Leadership, which oversees the Berkeley-Haas partnership with Philanthropy University. “There is an unbelievable unmet demand for this kind of resource in the social sector.”
Over the next eight weeks, enrollees can choose from seven classes that together provide top-notch professional training in leadership skills, organizational management, financing, and the scaling up of social impact organizations. Students who complete all seven courses earn a certificate in social sector leadership from Berkeley-Haas.
Philanthropy University classes, known as massive open online courses or MOOCs, are taught by renowned experts in the field of social impact, among them Paul Brest, former president of the Hewlett Foundation; Jessica Jackley, co-founder of peer-to-peer micro-lending site Kiva; and Shashi Buluswar, (pictured) an international consultant and instructor at Berkeley-Haas.
The Philanthropy University initiative was envisioned by His Excellency Amr Al-Dabbagh, chairman and CEO of Al-Dabbagh Group, a global business based in Saudi Arabia. He founded Philanthropy U as part of the company’s giving activities. Prof. Laura Tyson, director of the Haas Institute for Business & Social Impact, is a member of Philanthropy University’s advisory board.
Philanthropy University is a non-degree, diploma, or credit granting non-profit initiative sponsored by Philanthropy U, Inc. Learners do not receive college or other academic credit.