These areas of study are deeply connected to public well-being and the growing demand for professionals who can address complex issues facing communities today.
There’s a huge demand for professionals with the right skills in these fields. Consider the example of healthcare occupations, where growth is estimated to be much faster than average. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, around 1.9 million openings are projected annually in these occupations.
Because of their significance, many colleges, foundations, and organizations offer scholarships and grants designed to support students pursuing degrees in these disciplines. This article lists some financial aid opportunities for students pursuing environmental or health studies.
Why Environmental and Health Studies Receive Targeted Aid
Environmental science and health care programs are among the most resource-intensive fields. They require specialized equipment, lab access, and sometimes fieldwork, which can increase the cost of the study.
Beyond the financial challenges, students entering these areas are preparing to address pressing issues such as pollution, climate change, disease prevention, and workplace safety.
One example of how these studies connect with real-world concerns can be seen in the public discussions surrounding chemical exposure cases. News of lawsuits tied to harmful emissions has raised awareness about how environmental hazards can affect both individual and community health.
Consider the example of ethylene oxide, which is extremely useful for sterilizing medical equipment on the outside. But on the inside, exposure to this harmful gas can result in various forms of cancer, as indicated by an ethylene oxide lawsuit.
According to TruLaw, many individuals exposed to ethylene oxide have filed lawsuits for harms like breast cancer, leukemia, lymphoma, etc. Since environmental and health studies are directly linked to such adverse events, the cost of education is significant. Therefore, aid is essential to ensure everyone has access to studying in these fields.
Scholarships for Environmental Studies
Organizations often sponsor scholarships for environmental studies focused on conservation, sustainability, and ecological protection.
National programs may provide awards for students studying climate science, renewable energy, or resource management. On the other hand, local groups sometimes fund opportunities for students working on regional issues such as watershed preservation or clean air initiatives.
Universities themselves also invest in these areas, offering departmental awards that encourage students to pursue research addressing environmental challenges.
For example, some schools provide grants to students conducting fieldwork in sustainable agriculture or ecological restoration. These scholarships not only ease financial strain but also serve as recognition of the vital contributions students are expected to make in the future.
Here are some environmental studies scholarships students can receive:
- Udall Undergraduate Scholarship
Awarded to sophomores and juniors with a strong commitment to environmental careers, Native American health care, or tribal policy. It provides up to $7,000 and also includes access to leadership development programs and networking with past scholars.
- Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) Fellowships & Internships
While not always a traditional scholarship, EDF offers paid fellowships and internships for students in environmental sciences, sustainability, and policy. These opportunities provide both financial support and professional experience in the environmental sector.
- Ernest F. Hollings Undergraduate Scholarship (NOAA)
Run by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, this program supports students in oceanic, atmospheric, and environmental science. It provides up to $9,500 per year and includes a paid 10-week internship at a NOAA facility. Over 120 undergraduate students receive tuition support and paid internships annually through this scholarship program.
Scholarships for Health Studies
In health-related fields, scholarship opportunities come from a wide variety of sources.
Hospitals and clinics often fund nursing and medical scholarships to address staff shortages. Similarly, professional associations may support students training in fields such as pharmacy, physical therapy, or public health.
Government-funded programs are also common, particularly for those who commit to serving in underserved communities after graduation.
Students who show an interest in medical research or public health policy can often access additional funding from nonprofit organizations and health foundations. These scholarships are designed to encourage long-term solutions to widespread health challenges.
Here are some health studies scholarships students can receive:
- National Health Service Corps (NHSC) Scholarship
Covers full tuition, fees, and provides a living stipend for students in medical, dental, nursing, and mental health fields. In return, recipients commit to working in underserved areas after graduation for a minimum of two years. This makes it both a financial aid program and a public service opportunity.
- American Medical Association (AMA) Foundation Scholarships
The AMA Foundation provides several scholarships to medical students who demonstrate both financial need and leadership potential. The foundation awarded a total of $315,000 in tuition aid through its various programs for the academic year 2023-2024. Awards vary, but the foundation’s programs often support students who aim to address disparities in healthcare.
- National Black Nurses Association (NBNA) Scholarships
Available to Black students enrolled in diploma, associate, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral nursing programs. Awards start from $1,000 and support academic achievement, leadership, and community service. Data shows that over $150,000 has been given to PhD students. In 2023 alone, a record 57 scholarships worth over $257,000 were awarded.
How Students Can Strengthen Their Chances
Applying successfully for scholarships requires preparation and strategy. Beyond strong academic records, committees often want to see evidence of commitment to the chosen field. Volunteer work in hospitals, internships with environmental organizations, or independent research projects can demonstrate both passion and initiative.
Personal essays are another important factor. Applicants who connect their goals to broader community well-being often stand out.
For instance, a student might describe how witnessing the impact of pollution on their hometown inspired their pursuit of environmental engineering. Or, they can write about how caring for a relative shaped their decision to study nursing. Scholarship committees look for this sense of purpose when awarding financial aid.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can graduate students apply for these scholarships, or are they only for undergraduates?
Many scholarships are geared toward undergraduates, but several, especially those in public health, nursing, or environmental research, also support graduate students. Programs like the Garden Club of America awards and the AMA Foundation scholarships are strong options for those pursuing advanced degrees.
Are international students eligible for these scholarships in the U.S.?
Eligibility varies. Some scholarships, particularly government-funded programs like NHSC, are limited to U.S. citizens or permanent residents. However, private organizations and some universities do accept international applicants, especially in fields like environmental research. It is best to understand the eligibility for the scholarship you are applying for.
What if my career goals change after receiving a scholarship?
For some programs, especially service-based ones like the NHSC or HPSP, students must fulfill commitments after graduation. Changing fields may require repayment of funds or other obligations. For private scholarships without service commitments, students usually keep the award even if their focus shifts, though this varies by donor.
As environmental and health concerns become more visible, financial aid opportunities for these areas continue to expand. Rising awareness of climate change, public health equity, and chemical safety drives investment in these programs.
These scholarships help ensure that talented students are not excluded from important fields due to financial barriers. For students pursuing degrees in these areas, financial aid is not only available but increasingly accessible.
