When you invest in a graduate degree program, you are strengthening the foundation for your career. Strong, reputable graduate programs can provide a high ROI and a promising future. In 2021, workers with graduate degrees enjoyed the highest earnings and lowest unemployment rates. Research also shows that 77% of people with a postgraduate or professional degree said their graduate education helped them grow intellectually.
Before applying to any graduate program, make sure you understand what resources are available to empower your decision. Fortunately, there are many options, including engineering scholarships for graduate students and other financial resources available to help with the cost of graduate school and reach your goals.
How to Find a Scholarship for a Master’s Degree
If you’re considering pursuing a master’s degree, you may be wondering what scholarships are available to help cover the expenses. You can obtain guidance on finding scholarships through the following avenues.
Reach Out to the University
Many universities and graduate programs offer scholarships for master’s degrees in engineering or financial aid directly to their students. Check with the college’s financial aid office to see what options are available for your specific needs and interests. The university may also have an onsite Graduate Career Services department or advisors dedicated to helping grad students through one-on-one meetings, workshops, and alumni networking opportunities.
Utilize Online Resources
Searching online will also yield resources for master’s degree scholarships, including for engineers pursuing higher-level education and research. Some options include Fastweb, Scholarships.com, and CollegeScholarships.org. Each site offers a wide array of scholarships that can be narrowed down to your interests, including graduate school options, and financial needs.
Scholarships for a Master’s Degree in Engineering
It’s important to carefully research and compare available scholarship options. Carefully read the eligibility requirements and application instructions for each scholarship you are interested in. Similar to the undergraduate process, applying for scholarships at the graduate school level can be a competitive process, so it’s a good idea to start your search as early as possible.
Utilize the following scholarships and financial assistance options as a starting point for your search. By applying for as many scholarships as you are eligible for, you increase your chances of receiving funding for your studies.
American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) Fellowships
ASCE offers several fellowships to graduate students studying civil engineering, such as the John L. Klucznik Student Development Fund Scholarship, which awards around $2,500 to $5,000 per year. Applicants must be current ASCE Members in good standing; however, you can apply to more than one fellowship at a time provided you meet the eligibility of its requirements.
AREMA Graduate Scholarships
AREMA offers a minimum of $1,000 to students with a GPA of 2.5 and an interest in railway engineering. Enrolled students must have at least one quarter or semester in an accredited four or five-year engineering or engineering technology in an undergraduate or graduate degree program.
NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program
The NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program offers $49,000 to outstanding graduate students working on full-time, research-based master’s and doctoral degrees in technology, math, science, engineering, or STEM education. Undergraduate seniors and students with bachelor’s degrees interested in pursuing research-based graduate study in STEM are especially encouraged to apply. However, first and second-year graduate students in STEM fields and degree programs are also eligible.
American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE) Scholarships
AIChE offers scholarships ranging from $2,000 to $10,000 for graduate students studying chemical engineering. Students should be AIChE members in good standing, have a minimum GPA of 3.0, and be enrolled full-time in a graduate program in chemical engineering at an accredited university. To apply, students should include transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.
Fulbright Scholarship
Fulbright scholarships are awarded to international students with demonstrated academic or professional achievement. Students can study sciences, arts, humanities, natural sciences, and more with self-paced awards of up to $38,000 for a first-year master’s degree or Ph.D. in the United States. International students must meet the eligibility requirements, which will vary depending on their country of citizenship and the type of scholarship.
What is the Difference Between Master’s Degree Scholarships and Fellowships?
When looking for a scholarship for your graduate studies, you will also find fellowships available at the graduate level. The two are financially beneficial for students but have some key differences.
In general, fellowship funding is usually discretionary, and students can use them as they see fit and support themselves while pursuing their degrees. They may also come with a living stipend. Scholarships are often awarded on a merit basis or come with fixed criteria on how the funds can be used.
Tips for Getting Master’s Degree Scholarships
Here are some best practices and tips for finding scholarships to reach your goals.
- Start early to stay ahead of deadlines. The more scholarships you apply to, the more likely you are to find one that will fit your needs and eligibility.
- Consider your personal characteristics and interests before applying for scholarships and fellowships, as opportunities span engineering disciples from aerospace to civil engineering.
- Research professional organizations to find more scholarship opportunities.
- Network with peers in your field and alumni from your intended graduate school to ask about potential scholarship opportunities.
- Keep track of deadlines by using a spreadsheet, calendar, or app to track your scholarship submission deadlines to avoid missing valuable opportunities.
- Ask for help. Remember to reach out to your financial aid office or the organization offering the scholarship. They can help walk you through requirements and answer any questions to make the process as seamless as possible.
Pursue a Master’s Degree in Engineering
Securing graduate engineering scholarships could help with your tuition, limiting the financial stress, and build the foundation for the next phase of your career. Johns Hopkins Engineering for Professionals (EP) offers a progressive, modern, and comprehensive curriculum to master skills and topics ranging from environmental engineering to aerospace to robotics and autonomous systems. Students enjoy flexible options, such as part-time and online programs, a career services center, and a vast alumni network to heighten their ability to advance their careers.
If you are interested in learning more about pursuing one of the 22 programs available at Johns Hopkins University Whiting School of Engineering, please contact the admissions team for more information.