The Paul D. Coverdell Fellows program is a graduate school program for returned Peace Corps Volunteers (RPCVs). Through this program, schools across the country offer financial support to RPCVs who, in turn, complete substantive internships related to their program of study in underserved communities in the United States.
The Sparkman Center is proud to partner with the Peace Corps to offer the Paul D. Coverdell Scholarship to RPCVs pursuing a Master’s in Public Health (MPH) or Master’s of Science in Public Health (MSPH) at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) School of Public Health (SOPH).
Coverdell Fellow Benefits
- Up to $8,000 scholarship provided (distributed over 2 years)
- In-state status for the duration of their time of study in the MPH or MSPH program. Additional fees may be incurred for online students.
- Inclusion in the Sparkman Fellows Program, which fosters global health interests in students across UAB. Through this program. Coverdell Fellows will be matched with a faculty mentor during their second year of study.
- Direct connection to the Sparkman Center for advising and support in global health goals while a student
Eligibility Criteria
Applicant must be applying to the UAB SOPH to enroll in either the MPH or MSPH program for a fall semester. Students may apply for either in-person or online programs. Per SOPH guidelines, students must be full-time (9 credit hours for graduate students).
Application Process
Step 1: When filling out your SOPHAS application, locate the question: If you are a returned Peace Corps Volunteer applying for a fall entry term, you are eligible to apply for the Coverdell Fellows Scholarship. Indicate your intention to apply below and then visit Sparkman Peace Corps webpage to complete your application. This is located under “Additional Questions.” Mark YES under I am a returning Peace Corps Volunteer and intend to apply for the Coverdell Fellows Scholarship.
Step 2: Fill out the form below to submit your Description of Service (DOS) alongside your application. All RPCVs must submit their DOS. Current PCVs should submit a letter of support from their program manager or country director specifying that the applicant is in good standing until the DOS is available.
Step 3: ALL application materials must be received by the Sparkman Center no later than February 1st.
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Scholarship Administration
Selection of scholarship recipients will be made by the Sparkman Center for Global Health in accordance with the general guidelines and specific criteria for the scholarship.
The Coverdell Fellows Scholarship is coordinated with the Dean’s Office at the School of Public Health. Enrollment requirements must be met before scholarship funds are distributed. Once a fellow is selected, they will receive a litter detailing the terms of the scholarship.
Coverdell Fellow Highlights
Other Degree Programs at UAB
If you are looking for information on Coverdell Fellowships available for other degree programs at UAB, please see here: