Master’s degrees in business, law, and public administration may seem like the most obvious choices for someone considering a career in philanthropy, writes Phil Cubeta on Gift Hub..

But Mr. Cubeta says that most top consultants to wealthy donors have a more-varied pedigree.

“You will most often find odd hybrids: doctorate of divinity, followed by a law degree; a masters in philosophy followed by practical experience in business; masters of divinity followed by experience as a fund raiser; masters in psychology followed by clinical practice, culminating in working with multi-generational dynastic families …,” he writes, in response to an earlier discussion on the Future Leaders in Philanthropy blog. (For more on that discussion, see Give and Take).

A background in the humanities is essential for giving away money effectively, says Mr. Cubeta. “The mean technical trades provide no purchase on the questions of purpose. Some earnest shmuck with an MBA or law degree can always be found when the conversation gets from why to how?,” he says.

What do you think? How would you respond to Mr. Cubeta’s question: “In the ideal university, where should philanthropy be taught?” In the history, business, psychology, or even world religions department? And how critical is a humanities background to a career consulting with donors?