Overview / About the Scholarship
The Marcy Carpenter Scholarship is a unique, donor-funded opportunity supported by loyal University of Sussex alumni. This scholarship is specifically dedicated to the MA in Corruption and Governance, a flagship program that examines how corruption occurs, how it can be measured, and how it can be fought across various sectors of society and government.
With only one award available annually, the scholarship is highly competitive. It seeks to empower a global student who shows the intellectual capacity and professional drive to become an expert in anti-corruption policy and ethical leadership. By providing a substantial £10,000 discount, the scholarship aims to ensure that financial barriers do not prevent the world's most promising policy-makers and researchers from accessing the interdisciplinary expertise of the Sussex Department of Politics. Candidates are expected to possess a strong academic record and a clear vision of how they will apply their studies to foster integrity and accountability in their future careers. For students applying through NWC Education, this award is a significant gateway to one of the most specialised and impactful Master's degrees in the United Kingdom.
Scholarship Value / Benefits
- Substantial Fee Reduction: A direct £10,000 deduction from the total international tuition fees.
- Alumni Connection: Recognition as a scholar supported by the university’s dedicated philanthropic network.
- Financial Ease: Significant reduction in the balance required for the CAS and visa financial requirements.
- Academic Prestige: Status as the sole recipient of this specialised award for the academic year.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible, a candidate must:
- Be an international applicant assessed as an Overseas fee payer.
- Have accepted an offer to study the MA Corruption and Governance at Sussex.
- Be commencing the course in September 2026.
- Be enrolled in the on-campus version of the program.
- Exclusions: Students applying for the online version of the MA Corruption and Governance are not eligible.
Level & Field of Study
- Level: Postgraduate Taught (Master’s).
- Field of Study: Politics / Corruption and Governance.
- Specific Course: MA Corruption and Governance (Full-time, On-campus).
Host University / Provider Info
The University of Sussex is a world-renowned, research-led institution situated just outside the coastal city of Brighton.
- Global Influence: Sussex is globally recognised for its work in Social Sciences, Public Policy, and International Development.
- Academic Innovation: The Department of Politics at Sussex is home to the Sussex Centre for the Study of Corruption, the first of its kind in the UK.
- Campus Environment: Located in the South Downs National Park, Sussex offers a stunning study environment that balances natural beauty with modern, high-tech facilities.
Required Documents
- University Application Number: Issued upon applying for the course.
- Course Offer Letter: Evidence that you have been offered a place.
- Academic Transcripts: Proof of your previous undergraduate achievements.
- Personal Statement: A strong statement detailing your interest in corruption, governance, and ethical leadership.
How to Apply
- Apply for the Course: Submit an application for the MA Corruption and Governance through the University of Sussex portal or via NWC Education.
- Accept Your Offer: Ensure you have formally accepted your admission offer.
- Automatic Consideration: Eligible offer holders are typically considered automatically for this award; however, students are encouraged to check the applicant hub for any supplemental statements required.
- Deadline: The university considers eligible candidates until June 1, 2026.
- Selection: The successful recipient is usually contacted by the university in August 2026.


