Online Kinesiology Degree Program Scholarships and Grants
When pursuing an online kinesiology degree, it's crucial to be aware of the various scholarships and grants available to help offset the costs of your education. These financial aid opportunities can come from a variety of sources, such as government agencies, private organizations, and the universities themselves.
Federal Grants for Online Kinesiology Students
The U.S. Department of Education offers several types of federal grants that kinesiology students may be eligible for. These are primarily need-based and include:
- The Pell Grant: This grant is typically awarded to undergraduate students who demonstrate exceptional financial need.
- The Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG): This grant is for undergraduates with exceptional financial need. The FSEOG is administered directly by the financial aid office at each participating school.
- The TEACH Grant: This grant is for students who intend to teach in a high-need field in a low-income area. To receive this grant, students must agree to certain teaching service obligations.
Scholarships from Professional Organizations
Professional organizations related to kinesiology and sports medicine often offer scholarships to promising students in the field. Some of these organizations include:
- The American Kinesiology Association (AKA)
- The National Athletic Trainers' Association (NATA)
- The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM)
These organizations typically require membership for scholarship eligibility, and the awards are often competitive, based on academic performance, leadership skills, or research potential.
Institutional Scholarships and Grants
Many universities that offer online kinesiology degree programs also provide scholarships and grants specifically for their students. These may be based on academic merit, financial need, or specific career goals. For instance, a university may offer a scholarship for students who plan to work in community health after graduation.
Private Scholarships
In addition to the above sources, there are also numerous private scholarships available for kinesiology students. These can come from corporations, nonprofit organizations, or individual donors. They may be based on a variety of factors, including academic achievement, community service, or even specific career goals.
Finding and Applying for Scholarships and Grants
Finding and applying for scholarships and grants can take some time and effort, but the potential financial rewards make it worth it. Here are some tips:
- Start your search early: Many scholarships and grants have deadlines that fall before college admission deadlines.
- Use scholarship search engines: Websites like Fastweb, Scholarships.com, and Cappex can help you find scholarships that match your needs and qualifications.
- Contact your school's financial aid office: They can provide information about institutional and local scholarships that you might not find online.
- Apply for multiple scholarships: The more scholarships you apply for, the greater your chances of receiving financial aid.
Remember, every bit of financial aid can help reduce the cost of your online kinesiology degree program. So don't hesitate to apply for as many scholarships and grants as you qualify for.