MSW Program Grants and Scholarships
Merit Scholarships
Mission-based financial aid is awarded to incoming and continuing MSW students who have demonstrated intellectual and personal qualities likely to lead to roles and careers central to the social welfare system. This includes a commitment to engaging in roles that involve social welfare institutions and systems most likely to impact major social problems and that serve the most economically and socially disadvantaged groups in society. Personal qualifications considered essential to successful social work practice-such as sensitivity and responsiveness in relationships, concern for the needs of others, adaptability, good judgment, creativity, integrity and skill in written communication-will be considered. This determination shall be based primarily on an evaluation of all previous academic work, recommendations, human service employment experience, the applicant's written supplementary statement, other application documents and the School of Social Work Financial Aid Application. Please note that no separate financial aid application is required.
Association of Latina/Latino Social Work Educators
ExternalThe Association of Latina/Latino Social Work Educators provides scholarships to Latina/Latino social work students who demonstrate leadership in the social work context and aspire to a career of excellence.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Training Program
Application Deadlines:
- Early Application: December 1
- Priority Application: February 1
- Final: March 1
Under the leadership of the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, the DEI Training Program recognizes the critical importance of emerging social workers to be able to engage in organization and structural advancement of diversity, equity, and inclusion to move towards a more socially just world. By equipping MSW students with the tools and knowledge to navigate complex social dynamics, challenge systemic inequalities, and promote inclusive practices, we aim to foster a new generation of social workers who can effectively advocate for historically marginalized communities and contribute to the development of equitable policies and programs.
The DEI Training Program aims to provide MSW students with opportunities to apply their knowledge and skills in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in a variety of settings using micro, mezzo, and macro practice skills. The program aims to prepare them for a wide range of roles in social work, where they can actively contribute to creating more inclusive and equitable communities.
This program integrates intraprofessional and interprofessional educational opportunities to maximize learning with, from, and about other health professionals to develop skills in collaborative change efforts.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Training Program and Application Information
Geriatric Scholarship Program
Application Deadlines:
- Early Application: December 1
- Priority Application: February 1
- Final: March 1
Geriatric social work is one of the fastest growing career fields. The number of older persons in the United States will more than double between the years 2000-2030. As the population ages, employment opportunities in gerontological social work are expanding greatly. Geriatric social work offers extensive possibilities to make a difference in older people's lives and enjoy limitless opportunities for career advancement. Geriatric social workers are particularly needed in marginalized communities and with vulnerable populations.
Approximately ten scholarships will be awarded to incoming On-Campus MSW students who are interested in becoming gerontological social workers.
SSW Centennial Social Justice Impact Fund
The School of Social Work (SSW) invites grant applications from students, staff and faculty to support projects that align with the values of social justice, anti-racism, and addressing systemic inequities. The goal is to inclusively support UMSSW community members to advance social justice to the greatest degree possible. Such funding could be for projects, programming, or partnerships with external organizations. Grants will be made up to the amount of $2,000. Project funding can be used for student support (financial aid award or hourly pay), to support partnership with outside experts and communities, travel and event costs (when allowed by the university). UMSSW community members are eligible for one grant in an academic year.
Students who would like to brainstorm potential project ideas are invited to contact Professor Daicia Price at daiciars@umich.edu
Congratulations to the previous recipients of the social justice impact fund. The application is now closed until Fall 24.
School of Social Work Dean's Scholarship
The Dean's Scholarship is awarded to new and continuing students utilizing academic- and practice-related criteria as evidenced by the supplementary statement, recommendations, and other application documents. Awards may be provided to students meeting one or more of the following criteria:
- Evidence of substantial knowledge development
- Evidence of substantial social work-related research
- Evidence of outstanding volunteer or paid social work experience
- Evidence of high academic achievement
- Evidence of outstanding record in social activism
Please note that no separate financial aid application is required.
School of Social Work Scholarships
This award is funded through the gifts of many donors who wish to provide scholarship support to students in the School of Social Work. School of Social Work Scholarships are awarded to incoming MSW students each year. Selection is based on demonstrated, outstanding potential for professional practice. This determination shall be based primarily on an evaluation of all previous academic work, recommendations, human service employment experience, the applicant's written supplementary statement, other application documents and the School of Social Work Financial Aid Application. Please note that no separate financial aid application is required.
Consuelo W. Gosnell Memorial MSW Scholarship-National Association of Social Workers
ExternalThe Consuelo W. Gosnell Memorial MSW Scholarship is awarded to master's degree candidates in social work who have demonstrated a commitment to working with, or who have a special affinity with, American Indian/Alaska Native and Hispanic/Latino populations.
Consuelo W. Gosnell Memorial MSW Scholarship-National Association of Social Workers
Global Activities Scholars Program
Application Deadlines:
- Early Application: December 1
- Priority Application: February 1
- Final: March 1
The Global Activities Scholars Program (GASP) is a unique opportunity for students interested in working with individuals, communities, and organizations in a global context as part of their On-Campus MSW program. Up to twelve incoming students will be selected each year to complete a global field placement during the spring/summer term (May - August). The purpose of the program is to provide students committed to global social work practice an opportunity to live in a foreign country while completing a part of their field placement requirement.
Applicants must select the Global Social Work pathway as their primary pathway or the Interpersonal Practice in Integrated Health, Mental Health, & Substance Abuse pathway as their primary pathway with the Global Social Work pathway as their secondary pathway.
Global Activities Scholars Program and Application Information
Jewish Communal Leadership Program
Application Deadlines:
- Early Application: December 1
- Priority Application: February 1
- Final: March 1
The Jewish Communal Leadership Program, offered by the University of Michigan School of Social Work in partnership with the Jean and Samuel Frankel Center for Judaic Studies, presents a distinctive educational opportunity for MSW students committed to helping Jewish communities meet 21st-century challenges while also addressing broader social concerns. Students combine study of community systems, theories of social change, and Jewish history and community, with training and experience in community organizing, non-profit management, dialogue facilitation, and coalition building within and across groups.
Approximately six incoming On-Campus MSW students will be selected to participate in the program each year. JCLP graduates currently serve in Jewish and nonsectarian organizations across the United States and abroad. Alumni are employed as chief executives, program developers, fundraising professionals, therapists, community outreach directors, and educators.
Jewish Communal Leadership Program and Application Information