Better Futures Programme

Participants will be screened on the basis that they have:

1. demonstrable professional and personal experience suitable for a programme aimed at senior leaders.

2. evidence of enthusiasm and aptitude for system transformation coupled with self-development.

3. an interest in enhancing current skills and/or pivoting to a new focus for social impact in professional and beyond professional spheres.

4. good ability in written and spoken English language equivalent to an IELTS overall band of 7.0 (with no element lower than 6.5).

5. access to appropriate computer technology and internet software; and

6. 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 on the right-hand side of the page. Our team is very happy to speak directly with you to explore if the programme meets your needs. 

Stage two - Apply (using the “Apply Now” button on the right-hand side of the 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. 

1. What issue or issues would you like to explore during your time on the programme and why are they meaningful to you?
2. What life experiences have been most meaningful to you and what do you hope the next phase of life will consist of?
3. 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 ICE.

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.

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.

Is accommodation included in the fee? 

No accommodation is provided, however, the programme team can provide a list of accommodation providers in Cambridge

Is catering included in the fee?

Daily catering is not included, however, there will be some programme dinners and networking opportunities

Can you provide VISA assistance?

Regretfully, we are unable to help with obtaining visas. 

I’m a prospective international student, can I attend this programme?

Regrettably it is not possible for an international student to attend this programme unless they already have a UK immigration status that permits study which is valid for the duration of the course. This will be checked as part of the admissions process.

There is no visa route available that can support a prospective international student in attending this programme if you do not already hold a valid UK immigration status. The programme does not meet requirements for either Student visa sponsorship or study with visitor immigration permission.

Where will the teaching be located

Teaching will take place in Cambridge. A VLE is provided which will contain all course materials, recommended reading and further assistance

How many hours would I need to commit?

This is a fulltime programme based in Cambridge. To make the most of the opportunity we encourage fellows to relocate to Cambridge or to be within easy travelling distance.

The core programme sessions will take place twice weekly during University term.

You will be expected to attend each session, prepare for the sessions and an amount of self study.

Alongside the core programme participants will be matched with a host academic department alongside membership of a college. Through the departmental and college membership participants will have an opportunity to create a personalised learning pathway accessing resources, events and opportunities across the collegiate university.

When is the deadline for applications?
The early bird deadline for the 2025/6 entry is 3rd February 2025. This marks the first round of acceptances, with all offers finalized and shared by June 2025.

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.

I have question about my application, whom should I contact?
For any queries or information about the admissions procedure, making an application or your application itself - please contact the admissions team by clicking on the 'Ask A Question' link at the top right-hand side on this page.