The Cambridge Better Futures Programme is a year-long course. It convenes the power of Cambridge and equips accomplished individuals to create transformative change in the world. Whether your ambition is to improve your local community or deliver something truly global, the Cambridge Better Futures Programme will help you define your vision and prepare to put it into action.
This programme is available in both 12-month and 6-month pathways. You are currently viewing the 12-month programme page. To learn more about the 6-month pathway please follow - Better Futures 6-month Programme.
Course Dates
Course details
Tutors
12-month programme
As a Better Futures Programme participant, you will be part of a select cohort. Your journey will be unique, based around your specific interests, and arena of exploration. Alongside a core programme, we will help you construct a truly personalised programme of study with guidance from your academic departmental host and the Better Futures team.
What does the programme offer you?
Foundations: Re-assess your skills, capabilities, motivation and personal health and refine how you relate to society and the world around you.
Frontiers: Explore major societal issues and opportunities with Cambridge academics and develop a personalised learning plan
Wayfinding: Craft future impact pathways to follow in the coming years.
These strands weave together across a weekly core programme of seminars, your personalised learning and research, and the broader intellectual and cultural communities of Cambridge. You're invited to connect the foundational awareness of your world view and experiences to cutting-edge knowledge and using that combination to craft paths for change that are meaningful, impactful and sustainable. The programme team and academic host will work with you to curate a set of lectures, workshops and other learning opportunities to delve deeper into subjects connected to your interests, and to draw on Cambridge networks to help activate your plans.
You will be able to draw upon:
- taught courses*, open lectures/seminars
- departments, institutes, research centres, networks
- past and ongoing research programmes
- academic experts and researchers to serve as advisers and resources.
- partnership of external expert practitioners in the Better Futures mentor network.
- the wider Cambridge ecosystem and network of alumni.
- termly symposia/dinners that bring together Thought Leaders and prominent actors in discussion around key issues by programme theme.
*with lecturer permission
The programme culminates in the Better Futures Conference in September 2026, where you’ll present your work to advisors, mentors, and potential collaborators.
To find out more information and request a copy of the programme brochure, use the 'Ask a question' button on this page.
To learn more about our partner, the Centre for Better Futures, click here.
Key Features
Participants will be screened on the basis that they have:
- demonstrable professional and personal experience suitable for a programme aimed at senior leaders
- evidence of enthusiasm and aptitude for system transformation coupled with self-development
- an interest in enhancing current skills and/or pivoting to a new focus for social impact in professional and beyond professional spheres
- good ability in written and spoken English language equivalent to an IELTS overall band of 7.0 (with no element lower than 6.5)
- access to appropriate computer technology and internet software; and the ability to pay the course fees or to identify a sponsoring institution
Stage one - connect
To learn more or speak to one of our team, please click on the 'ask a question' button in the course dates section on this page. Our team is very happy to speak directly with you to explore if the programme meets your needs.
Stage two - apply
If we are open for applications, you can use the 'apply now' button in the course dates section on this page.
Once you are happy the programme would meet your needs please submit a written application with answers to the questions below, and a CV.
- What issue or issues would you like to explore during your time on the programme and why are they meaningful to you?
- What life experiences have been most meaningful to you and what do you hope the next phase of life will consist of?
- Why do you think the Better Futures programme in Cambridge is a good fit for you and what other programmes have you considered?
We ask for two references to accompany your application. References should be business references rather than from personal connections. Please make referees aware that they will receive an automated email requesting a reference, which will come directly from University of Cambridge Professional and Continuing Education (PACE).
Please note: The Better Futures Programme operates a rolling application process with monthly application deadlines, with a final application deadline for the 2025-26 cohort of Monday 02 June 2025, midnight GMT. Applications are reviewed each month and may be closed if sufficient applicant numbers are received. We encourage individuals interested in the Better Futures Programme to submit their application as soon as possible. The apply by date above is the next monthly application deadline.
Stage three - interview
Shortlisted applicants will be asked to attend an online interview.
Stage four - offer and acceptance
On the basis of the above process, a decision will be made about your suitability for the programme and an offer potentially made.
The programme aims to enable participants to:
- experience and embed practices that enhance wellbeing, capacity for life-craft, and life-long reflective practice
- acquire understanding of cutting-edge knowledge in core areas of interest (e.g climate change, health inequalities) and the ability to frame critical questions based on this understanding
- design and enact a change pathway aligned with their experience, values and knowledge
- be prepared to initiate a change pathway – personal, high-level collaborative across sectors – in ways that engage with global challenges, that are aligned to participant’s values and skills, and in ways that help shift societal norms
- potentially make a credible transition to a new career stage, connecting existing competencies and leadership with sufficient new knowledge, networks and practices
- develop a strong community amongst and beyond the cohort to support longer-term system change
As a non-award-bearing programme there is no formal assessment at the end of the programme.
To qualify for a certificate of participation attendees will need to attend 90% of the core programme sessions.
To qualify for a certificate of completion participants need to have created a ‘next phase plan’ bringing together what they have learned throughout the programme and be invited to present this at the end of programme conference. To support the development of this next phase plan there will be termly exercises and assignments.
Course fees - £60,000
Once your application is approved we require an initial deposit of £10,000 to secure your place with the remaining amount to be paid in instalments.
At least 60 days before the course commences, a 2nd payment of £25,000
At least 30 days before the course commences, the final payment of £25,000
Payment must be made by BACS Transfer.
When does the programme begin, and how long does it run?
Both the 12 and 6-month programmes begin with an onboarding week starting on 29th September 2025.
The 12-month programme runs for 24 weeks across the academic year, concluding with the opportunity to present your work at the Better Futures Annual Conference in September 2026.
The 6-month programme runs until the end of March 2026. As a Better Futures Programme alumnus, continued support is available to you as you refine your plan. Participants following this pathway will also be invited to return to the Better Futures Conference in September, where you’ll present your progress to advisors, mentors, and peers.
What is the difference between the 12- and 6-month programme?
The 12-month programme offers a full academic year in Cambridge, providing more time to explore your ambitions, deepen your knowledge, and build connections within the University and wider community. You’ll participate in weekly seminars, discussions, and research projects, culminating in the Better Futures Conference in September.
The 6-month programme follows the same core structure but runs from Michaelmas to Lent term. It includes an accelerated Wayfinding workshop to help you craft your impact plan. Participants are invited to return in September to present their progress at the Better Futures Conference.
The 6-month pathway is ideal for those with visa or personal considerations who want a structured Cambridge experience with added flexibility.
I’m a prospective international student, can I attend the 12-month programme?
At this stage, international students can only join the 12-month programme if they already hold a UK immigration status that permits study for its full duration. This will be confirmed as part of the admissions process.
For those with visa or personal considerations, the 6-month programme offers an immersive Cambridge experience while providing the flexibility to take your impact forward in a way that works for you.
Can you provide visa assistance?
Applicants should ensure they have the right to study and live in the UK for the full period of their chosen 12- or 6-month pathway. We’re happy to discuss what might work best for your situation
Unfortunately, we cannot help with obtaining visas. For more information on UK visitor visa requirements, please visit this link.
Where will the teaching be located
Teaching will take place in Cambridge at locations across the collegiate university. Our online course pages will contain all course materials, recommended reading and further assistance.
Will I need to be on-site for the full length of the programme?
To fully engage with the programme and its community, we strongly encourage participants to either relocate to Cambridge or live within easy traveling distance. While we aim to strike a balance between flexibility and your personal commitments, much of the programme’s value comes from the time spent in person with your cohort, fostering connections and enhancing your learning experience.
How many hours will I need to commit?
The programme is designed to be close to full-time. Core sessions take place twice weekly during University term on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and you’ll also need to allocate time for preparation and self-study. Elements of your personalised programme of study will fill out much of the rest of the week, and College and thematic dinners are also key intellectual and social elements of your Better Futures experience
Can my spouse or partner participate in the programme?
Yes, we welcome spouses and partners to participate in the programme alongside Better Futures Fellows. If you and a partner are both considering applying, the partner programme offers a 25% reduction in course fees per person if both of you are accepted. Each partner applies separately and goes through the same interview process as any other participant.
How many participants are in each cohort?
Each cohort is intentionally kept small, we aim to have at least 20 participants. This ensures a highly personalised experience, meaningful interaction with mentors and peers, and a collaborative learning environment.
When will my application be considered?
All applications will be reviewed at the first stage. A member of our team will respond to you within 10 days of your application to explore it with you in more detail.
Is the programme suitable for someone with no prior academic research experience?
Yes, the programme is designed to accommodate individuals from diverse professional backgrounds, including those with no prior academic research experience. The programme provides support and guidance to help participants engage with research and academic activities.
Will I become a University of Cambridge alumnus after completing the programme, and what certification will I receive?
Upon successful completion, you will receive a Certificate of Completion, celebrating your commitment to the programme and the personal and professional growth achieved during your time with us. While the Better Futures Programme is a non award bearing course, it offers a unique and prestigious opportunity to become a part of the University of Cambridge community. From the moment you’re accepted, you’ll join the esteemed Better Futures Fellows community, gaining lifelong connections and access to a network of inspiring leaders dedicated to creating a meaningful societal impact.
Is accommodation included in the fee?
Accommodation is not included as part of college membership. Participants are expected to arrange and cover the cost of their own housing. The programme team will be able to provide a list of accommodation providers in Cambridge once you have accepted your place onto the programme.
Is catering included in the fee?
Daily catering is not included, however, as part of the programme, you will enjoy thematic symposium dinners each term, alongside regular college dinners.
Can I pay in instalments?
Once your application is approved we require an initial deposit of £10,000 to secure your place with the remaining amount to be paid in instalments. The second payment of half the outstanding amount is required at least 60 days before the course commences, followed by the final payment of the remaining amount at least 30 days prior to the start date. All payments must be made via BACS transfer.
When is the initial deadline for applications?
The early bird application deadline for the 2025-26 entry is 3rd February 2025. This marks the first round of acceptances, with all offers being finalised and communicated by June 2025.
Who can I contact for further questions?
For any questions about the admissions procedure, application process, or your application status, please submit a question to our admissions team here.
If you have any programme-specific questions, feel free to get in touch using the 'ask a question' button in the course dates section of this page.
