MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling Diversity Scholarship

All admitted MA students are automatically reviewed for a scholarship. There is no separate application. The Scholarship Committee does not review FAFSA information in making award determinations. However, students are strongly encouraged to submit their FAFSA so they may become eligible for federal loans. 

The Scholarship Committee meets after group interviews and reviews admitted applicants. Notifications of scholarship awards are made via email, generally about two weeks after admission offers are made. However, as students decline their awards, the Scholarship Committee will re-award funds and consider all admitted students. For this reason, students may not learn if they receive a scholarship until several weeks after being admitted.  

Qualifications

This award aims to increase the representation of individuals with identities that are traditionally underrepresented at PAU and in the counseling profession. Through sharing their varied cultural perspectives and experiences, these students enhance the PAU community and the mental health field. Students may be qualified for the diversity scholarship if they meet the following criteria:

• Come from a group that has been underrepresented at PAU, such as low-income students, students with disabilities, LGBTQIA+ students, religious minorities, or first-generation college students, or
• Would contribute to the diversity of the student body, or
• Have had experiences with housing insecurity, homelessness, or have an economically disadvantaged background.
• In addition to meeting the above criteria, the student must demonstrate a willingness to create positive change within the mental health field and a commitment to the principles of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.

Selection Process

The Scholarship Committee reviews:

• Past academic performance
• Community and campus involvements
• Obstacles overcome, recognizing and honoring the intersectionality of each student
• Potential to contribute positively to the academic and cultural life of the university
• Clinical experience
• Commitment to diversity and to improving the human condition
• Motivations for graduate studies in counseling
• Fit for PAU’s goals, mission, community, and academic programs

 

Award

Amounts vary.  

Eligibility

To be eligible, students must be new students admitted to the MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program for the Spring or Fall 2024 terms. Students must apply no later than July 28, 2024; however, scholarships will be awarded on a rolling basis. For that reason, it is beneficial to complete your application before the deadline to ensure scholarship funds are still available.