Public health is a dynamic and crucial field focused on improving the health and well-being of populations through research, education, prevention, and policy. With global challenges such as pandemics, health disparities, environmental health issues, and aging populations, public health professionals are in high demand. However, pursuing a degree in public health—whether at the undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral level—can be financially demanding. Fortunately, there are numerous scholarships designed specifically for public health students.
In this article, we highlight some of the best scholarships available for public health majors, including eligibility criteria, application tips, and what makes each opportunity valuable.
1. The APHA Public Health Fellowship and Scholarships
The American Public Health Association (APHA) supports students in the field through a variety of scholarships and fellowships. While most are geared toward graduate-level students, some are open to undergraduates planning to enter public health.
Key Features:
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For undergraduate and graduate students
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U.S. citizenship often required
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Must be a member of APHA
Why It's Great:
APHA is a leading organization in the field, and recipients benefit from not only financial assistance but also networking, mentorship, and conference opportunities.
2. The CDC Undergraduate Public Health Scholars (CUPS) Program
While technically a summer program, the CUPS initiative, funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), provides hands-on public health experience to underrepresented undergraduate students, along with financial support.
Eligibility:
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U.S. citizens or permanent residents
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Belong to underrepresented racial/ethnic groups
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Interested in public health careers
Benefits:
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Paid summer internship
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Travel, housing, and living stipend
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Real-world public health training
This program is excellent for students seeking both funding and practical experience in public health.
3. Tylenol Future Care Scholarship
This well-known scholarship is available to students pursuing degrees in healthcare, including public health.
Details:
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Up to $10,000 for graduate and undergraduate students
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U.S. residents only
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Requires academic achievement and community involvement
Highlights:
The Tylenol Future Care Scholarship is highly competitive and widely respected, making it a strong addition to any recipient’s résumé.
4. SOPHE Student Fellowship in Unintentional Injury Prevention
Offered by the Society for Public Health Education (SOPHE), this scholarship focuses on students involved in research or programs related to injury prevention.
Requirements:
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Must be a full-time student in public health or health education
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Must be engaged in a relevant project
Benefits:
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$2,000 award
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Opportunity to present findings at SOPHE’s annual conference
This is an ideal scholarship for students with a specific interest in community and injury prevention health initiatives.
5. HIMSS Foundation Scholarships
The Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS) offers scholarships to students in public health, health informatics, and healthcare administration.
Eligibility:
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Full-time students in an accredited U.S. or Canadian institution
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Minimum GPA of 3.0
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Membership in HIMSS
Awards:
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$5,000 for graduate students
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$2,000 for undergraduate students
These scholarships are perfect for students interested in the intersection of public health and health technology.
6. Delta Omega Honorary Society in Public Health Scholarships
Delta Omega, the honorary society for graduate studies in public health, offers scholarships, awards, and travel grants to its members.
Requirements:
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Must be a member of Delta Omega
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Graduate student in public health
Opportunities:
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National student poster competition
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$500–$1,000 awards
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Travel grants for the APHA Annual Meeting
Joining Delta Omega can also boost your academic profile and connect you with leaders in the field.
7. Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowships for New Americans
This prestigious fellowship supports immigrants and children of immigrants pursuing graduate education, including public health degrees.
Eligibility:
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Must be a New American (immigrant or child of immigrants)
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Must be 30 years old or younger
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Enrolled in a U.S. graduate program
Award:
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Up to $90,000 over two years
This fellowship is highly competitive and recognizes academic excellence, creativity, and a commitment to the United States.
8. NIH Undergraduate Scholarship Program (UGSP)
The National Institutes of Health offers scholarships to students from disadvantaged backgrounds who are committed to careers in biomedical, behavioral, or social science health-related research.
Benefits:
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Up to $20,000 per academic year
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Paid summer research training at NIH
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Employment obligation post-graduation
This scholarship is particularly valuable for students considering a research-oriented career in public health.
9. The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation Scholarships
While the Gates Foundation doesn’t have a single scholarship program, it funds various scholarships and fellowships that support public health education globally.
Notable Programs:
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Gates Cambridge Scholarship (UK)
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Global Health Corps Fellowship
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Gates Millennium Scholars (now closed but similar programs exist)
These programs offer full tuition, living stipends, and leadership development for students who want to drive change in public health.
10. Your University’s School of Public Health Scholarships
Most accredited Schools of Public Health offer internal scholarships to their students. These can be merit-based, need-based, or focused on specific areas such as epidemiology, global health, or health policy.
What to Look For:
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Application requirements and deadlines
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Faculty-nominated awards
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Graduate assistantships and fellowships
Pro Tip:
Contact the school’s financial aid office or visit the public health department’s website to explore available opportunities. These internal awards are often less competitive than national ones.
Application Tips for Public Health Scholarships
Securing a scholarship takes more than eligibility—it requires strategic preparation. Here are a few tips:
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Start Early: Many deadlines are well before the academic year begins.
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Customize Each Application: Tailor your personal statement to reflect your passion for public health.
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Get Involved: Volunteer or intern in community health settings to strengthen your application.
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Seek Strong Recommendations: Ask mentors who understand your commitment to public health.
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Proofread Carefully: A polished application shows professionalism and attention to detail.