I’m Amy. I recently graduated from the MSc in Charity Marketing and Fundraising at Bayes Business School.

After working for a large national charity for eight years, I wanted to expand my knowledge of charity marketing and fundraising and as soon as I found it, the Bayes CCE master’s programme was the stand-out choice for me. I had a clear view of what I wanted to achieve from this course but the growth and development that the learning has afforded me has truly altered my worldview and my aspirations for the future.

The master’s programme

Studying for an MSc in Charity Marketing and Fundraising has provided me with unique opportunities and challenged me in ways I could never have imagined.

The teaching staff bring real-world experiences to the table, alongside impeccable academic credentials and the vast wealth of guest speakers we were privileged to hear from across the course was absolutely incredible. I was often left moved, motivated and inspired.

From MSc to PhD

I went into the master’s programme with a thirst to learn and a desire to deepen my understanding of marketing and fundraising theories and practices, but somewhere along the way, my head was also turned by the academic approaches to the sector that are helping to shape the way things are done to support charities to reach their goals.

My master’s dissertation exposed me to academic research practices and working collaboratively with my supervisor to push my own boundaries. The process tested my limits and I found it truly transformative. It left me wanting more and made me realise that I can effect real change for the sector by being proactive in the academic world.

I have now been fortunate enough to be awarded the Bayes PhD studentship, so I can continue my academic journey. I’ll be honest, receiving the studentship to support with funding this next step in my journey felt completely surreal. A PhD not only provides a platform for this proactivity, but it also continues my personal growth as a researcher and a subject matter expert.

I had never seen myself on this journey, but I feel so grateful to be continuing my studies with Bayes and can’t wait to get started!
I want to use this opportunity to research a subject area that has yet to be held up to academic scrutiny, to contribute positively to the sector as a whole. I realise that is a tall order, but I believe that - together with my supervisors -  we are going to achieve something really special.

What does the future hold?

Theoretical knowledge in the third sector is growing and I’m excited to play a small part in that continued advancement and development, using this PhD as an opportunity to contribute something positive and useful.
There are some talented and diligent academics doing fantastic work in the field, and I feel inspired by them to dig deeper and address some key issues to help the sector to be as effective, sustainable and equitable as it can be.

I’m excited to continue my journey in a sector that seeks to make positive changes in the world and it is my hope that with this PhD opportunity with Bayes, I can carve out my small part in that change.

Find out more about the Centre for Charity Effectiveness (CCE) master's degree.