Indiana University has received approval to create a School of Philanthropy, in what is believed to be the first time a university has given ‘school’ status to the study of the topic.

While the Center on Philanthropy at Indiana has a long history of producing academics and work on philanthropy, the university has only just been given the go-ahead by its local authority to create a School of Philanthropy which will focus on education, training and research.

Pat M Rooney, executive director of the Center on Philanthropy, said the new school reflects the demands and environment which fundraisers and philanthropy experts face.

“Philanthropy and non-profits play an increasingly prominent and important role in society, and they are now quite complex, requiring more sophisticated education, research and training,” he said.

“The new School of Philanthropy and the additional talented faculty and students it will attract will significantly expand the scope and impact of the Center on Philanthropy’s research and training in best practices. The result will be well-informed and equipped non-profit professionals, donors and volunteers.”