University of Cambridge Better Futures Programme
The Better Futures Programme leverages the unique power of the University of Cambridge to help accomplished professionals unlock their next chapter and contribute to transformative change in the world.
In person
Length of programme
Next start
Applications for 2027/28
Build a tailored course of study with your academic host drawing on courses across the collegiate University alongside a dynamic core programme.
Join an intergenerational community of scholars with dining rights at your host college alongside University programmes and facilities.
Connect with leading academics, experts from within Cambridge and beyond, and a peer cohort of accomplished leaders.
Why apply?
Perhaps you’re looking to pivot from a life focused on commercial success towards a life of greater significance. Or maybe you have a potentially life changing idea to forge a better future for society and yourself, and you value structure and partnership to make it real.
01
Reflect deeply on your personal purpose
02
Build a personalised learning pathway, drawing on the University’s resources
03
Engage with global experts across disciplines
04
Build a diverse and supportive network of peers
05
Develop actionable ideas to shape a better future
What does the programme offer you?
Your journey will be built around the following framework:
Foundations
Who am I and how am I?
Delivers: “I know myself, my cohort, my place in society and what I’m here to work on. I have the intellectual frame, the diagnostics, the values clarity and the narrative tools to do the year. I’m clear on the role of personal wellbeing and actions I need to take for future success”
Frontiers
What does the world need and what are the frontiers of my knowledge?
Delivers: “I have a sharper, evidence-led picture of where the world is going, where the action is, and which problems pull at me. Calibrated optimism.”
Futures
How have others made change and how do I make change?
Delivers: “I have a clear plan, the story to tell it, the cohort and community behind it, and a date in September to land it.”
What does the programme offer you?
As a Better Futures Programme participant you will be part of a select cohort with the flexibility to choose between a Core Track (2 Cambridge Terms) and an Extended Track (3 Cambridge Terms). 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.
The Programme is built on 8 interlocking elements. Each one delivers on its own but their operation together is what makes transformation possible.
01 Three strands
Taught courses*, open lectures and seminars
02 Weekly sessions
Departments, institutes, research centres and networks
03 Coaching
Past and ongoing research programmes
04 Academic host
Academic experts and researchers to serve as advisers and resources
05 Small groups
Partnership of external expert practitioners in the Better Futures mentor network
06 College fellowship
The wider Cambridge ecosystem and network of alumni
07 Courses and lectures
Termly symposia and dinners bringing together thought leaders and prominent actors in discussion around key issues by programme theme
08 September conference: “a plan for the next phase of life”
Termly symposia and dinners bringing together thought leaders and prominent actors in discussion around key issues by programme theme
* With lecturer permission
You may already have achieved great things in society or in your career and have a desire to contribute to a better world. You might simply have delivered as much as you want in your career and are asking yourself what’s next. Participants will have diverse life experiences from the private, public and not-for-profit sectors. For instance, participants may include those seeking new challenges after decades as business executives, influential journalists, third sector experts or military officers.
Whatever your motivation, you must demonstrate achievement and leadership in your field and have a proven track record of achievement and expertise with 10-15+ years in senior professional roles. You will show an aptitude for system transformation and self-development, and you’ll be passionate about enhancing your skills and challenging yourself, to pivot to a new focus on social impact.
Participants will come from a diverse range of backgrounds including:
Entrepreneurs
Corporate
Health / public sector
Government
Arts / 3rd sector
Military
Advisory
The 2-term track follows the same core structure as the 3-term track, but runs from Michaelmas to Lent term (October to March). It is ideal for those with visa or personal considerations who want a structured Cambridge experience with added flexibility or those who feel they have considerable wayfinding experience already.
The pathway includes an accelerated Futures workshop to explore how you can translate the knowledge gained on the Programme into practical action, and offers continued support as you refine your plan after leaving as a Cambridge Better Futures Programme alumnus or alumna.
PACE represents a pinnacle of accessible, high-quality lifelong learning. It has a history dating back to 1873 and offers a wide range of opportunities designed to transform lives and careers, and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
Spouses and partners are welcome to participate in the programme together. If both applicants are accepted, each receives a 25% reduction in course fees. Applications are submitted individually and follow the standard interview process.
Please visit the University of Cambridge Professional and Continuing Education website for more on the admissions process.
Want to learn more about the Cambridge Better Futures Programme? Fill out the form below to get your brochure.
Interested in applying, collaborating, or just exploring? Register your interest or start a conversation below.
Want to learn more about the Cambridge Better Futures Programme? Fill out the form below to get your brochure.
Interested in the Better Futures Programme and eager to learn more?
Fill out the form below to register your interest and stay connected, or drop us a message to start a conversation.
We’re always happy to connect with potential applicants and explore how the programme could be a fit for you.