Charity fundraiser : Training

Training is primarily on the job. Expect responsibility and autonomy early, with opportunities to work in a variety of roles. Work may be supported by short courses tailored for the not-for-profit sector, which range from foundation-level courses for new starters to specialist and experienced fundraiser courses in, for example, legacy or corporate fundraising.

The Institute of Fundraising , the Directory of Social Change (DSC)  and Working for a Charity  offer courses for both new and experienced fundraisers, which offer participants the opportunity to network, learn new and innovative ways of approaching work and examine different methods of raising money and resources. A list of training providers is available from the Institute of Fundraising .

Postgraduate courses are available for professionals working in the field. The Open University Business School , Cass Business School , London South Bank University , Sheffield Hallam University  and the University of the West of England, Bristol  offer such courses.

Many graduates in charity fundraising pursue professional qualifications to distinguish themselves and open new career avenues. This trend is likely to grow. Charities are increasingly looking for staff who have membership of the Institute of Fundraising as evidence of professional status and this may become a requirement for career advancement in the future.