In the first module of the Diploma, you are expected to engage in an in-depth exploration and appraisal of contemporary issues in fundraising practice. You will critically examine and analyse relevant data, research, and literature to support informed proposals for development or change based on a selected contemporary issue. Emphasis is placed on synthesizing academic and practitioner insights to enhance understanding and decision-making, equipping you to contribute to growth within your organisations.
Diploma in Fundraising - Virtual Delivery
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24 March 2026 9:30am to 7 January 2027 4:00pm
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COU-SC1000
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Qualification
The Diploma in Fundraising is a professionally recognised qualification for managers and leaders. Through four integrated modules, you’ll build the knowledge, skills and confidence to manage sustainable development and lead effectively. Whether you are from a small or large organisation, you'll be empowered to lead with vision and apply innovative fundraising techniques in your planning. The Diploma sits at Level 5 which is equivalent in level and assesment to the second year of a traditional full time degree.
Course Fees
Please note: The booking deadline for this qualification is 27 February 2026
Course Modules
In the second module of the diploma, you will explore how access to and understanding of pertinent research can be leveraged to create evidence-based strategies for enhancing fundraising performance. You employ critical thinking to identify the strengths and weakness of various information sources and types, before outlining how this knowledge can be applied in developing solutions.
The module will also examine the role and value of digital and A.I. tools in analysis and content generation by addressing the implications of emerging A.I. practices for data collection, interrogation, content creation, in a sector already self-reporting to be under prepared to take advantage of technological advances.
In this module, you are expected to demonstrate an evidence based approach to leadership and management in fundraising practice with a focus on the intersection between communication, leadership and team dynamics. A critical analysis of the implications for professional contexts, including ethical issues, impact, and effectiveness in relation to personal development and fundraising practice will be covered. Students will critically analyse the relationship between leadership, communication, and team performance, applying contemporary theories to their own roles and practices.
In this module, you are expected to demonstrate an evidence based approach to leadership and management in fundraising practice with a focus on the intersection between communication, leadership and team dynamics. A critical analysis of the implications for professional contexts, including ethical issues, impact, and effectiveness in relation to personal development and fundraising practice will be covered. Students will critically analyse the relationship between leadership, communication, and team performance, applying contemporary theories to their own roles and practices.
Key Information
Module 1
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Pre-Course Work Begins |
11 March 2026 |
| Module 1 Session 1 | 24 March 2026, 9:30 - 12:30 |
| Module 1 Session 2 | 25 March 2026, 9:30 - 12:30 |
| Module 1 Tutorial | 29 April 2026, 15:00 - 17:00 |
| Assignment 1 Deadline | 20 May 2026 |
Module 2
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Pre-Module Work Begins |
10 June 2026 |
| Module 2 Session 1 | 23 June 2026, 9:30 - 12:30 |
| Module 2 Session 2 | 24 June 2026, 9:30 - 12:30 |
| Module 2 Tutorial | 15 July 2026, 15:00 - 17:00 |
| Assignment 2 Deadline | 5 August 2026 |
Module 3
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Pre-Module Work Begins |
19 August 2026 |
| Module 3 Session 1 | 1 September 2026, 9:30 - 12:30 |
| Module 3 Session 2 | 2 September 2026, 9:30 - 12:30 |
| Module 3 Session 3 | 3 September 2026, 9:30 - 12:30 |
| Module 3 Tutorial | 24 September 2026, 15:00 - 17:00 |
| Assignment 3 Deadline | 15 October 2026 |
Module 4
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Pre-Module Work Begins |
29 October 2026 |
| Module 4 Session 1 | 10 November 2026, 9:30 - 12:30 |
| Module 4 Session 2 | 11 November 2026, 9:30 - 12:30 |
| Module 4 Session 3 | 12 November 2026, 9:30 - 12:30 |
| Module 4 Tutorial | 3 December 2026, 15:00 - 17:00 |
| Assignment 4 Deadline | 7 January 2027 |
Learner’s must meet all of the following criteria to be eligible for the Diploma in Fundraising.
- Designed for those in management/leadership roles that involve strategy, and/or developing practice in fundraising
- Learners should have 3 or more years fundraising experience (with at least 18 months in a paid position)
- A learner’s organisation must be supportive of them completing the qualification
- Learners are required to have a good command of written and spoken English. For more information, please contact learning@ciof.org.uk
- Learners will need to have access to a computer and adequate internet speed to access course materials and participate in virtual/online sessions
Pre-course work is required before the start of each module to ensure students are fully prepared for their teaching sessions. Each module is made up of teachings sessions and a tutorial via Zoom. Students are expected to attend all live teaching sessions and tutorials.
In addition to the teaching sessions and tutorials, there are approximately 400 hours of self-directed study to complete this qualification.
You will need to purchase the course textbook Fundraising Management Analysis, Planning and Practice (4th Edition) by Adrian Sargeant, Jayne George Routledge, London.
The course textbook is not included in the fees.