Obtaining a college degree is a significant achievement that can open doors to various opportunities and career paths. However, with the rising cost of education, many individuals may find themselves unable to pursue a second degree due to financial constraints. Fortunately, there are scholarships available for those seeking a second degree. In this article, we will explore the question, “Can you get scholarships for a second degree?” and provide valuable insights for those considering pursuing a second degree.
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Types of Scholarships for a Second Degree
There are various types of scholarships available for individuals pursuing a second degree. These scholarships can be categorized into three main types: merit-based, need-based, and specific field of study.
Merit-Based Scholarships
Merit-based scholarships are awarded to students based on their academic achievements, talents, or other accomplishments. These scholarships are highly competitive and are often awarded to students with exceptional academic records or outstanding extracurricular activities. Merit-based scholarships can cover a significant portion of tuition fees, making it easier for individuals to pursue a second degree.
One example of a merit-based scholarship is the Rhodes Scholarship, which is awarded to exceptional students from around the world to pursue a postgraduate degree at the University of Oxford. Another example is the Fulbright Scholarship, which provides funding for graduate study, research, or teaching in a foreign country.
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Need-based scholarships are awarded to students based on their financial need. These scholarships take into account the individual’s family income, assets, and other financial factors. Need-based scholarships can cover a significant portion of tuition fees, making it more affordable for individuals to pursue a second degree.
One example of a need-based scholarship is the Pell Grant, which is awarded to undergraduate students based on their financial need. Another example is the Gates Millennium Scholars Program, which provides full scholarships to low-income minority students pursuing a degree in any field of study.
Specific Field of Study Scholarships
Specific field of study scholarships are awarded to students pursuing a degree in a particular field of study. These scholarships are often sponsored by organizations or companies looking to support individuals in a specific field. These scholarships can cover a significant portion of tuition fees and may also provide additional benefits such as internships or job opportunities.
One example of a specific field of study scholarship is the Google Anita Borg Memorial Scholarship, which is awarded to women pursuing a degree in computer science or a related field. Another example is the American Bar Association Legal Opportunity Scholarship, which is awarded to minority students pursuing a law degree.
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Now that we have explored the different types of scholarships available for a second degree, the next question is, how can individuals find these scholarships? Here are some tips to help individuals find scholarships for a second degree:
- Research online: The internet is a valuable resource for finding scholarships. Many websites, such as Fastweb and Scholarships.com, offer comprehensive databases of scholarships available for various degrees and fields of study.
- Check with the college or university: Many colleges and universities offer scholarships specifically for students pursuing a second degree. It is essential to check with the financial aid office of the institution to see if there are any scholarships available.
- Network: Networking can also be a useful tool in finding scholarships. Individuals can reach out to alumni or professionals in their desired field and inquire about any scholarships they may know of.
- Check with employers: Some employers offer tuition assistance or scholarships for employees pursuing a second degree. It is worth checking with the human resources department to see if such opportunities are available.
Case Studies
To further understand the availability and impact of scholarships for a second degree, let us look at two case studies of individuals who have successfully obtained scholarships for their second degree.
Read:Does mit give merit scholarships?Case Study 1: Sarah
Sarah graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and worked in the corporate world for five years. However, she realized that her true passion was in the field of education, and she wanted to pursue a Master’s degree in Education. Sarah was concerned about the cost of tuition and was unsure if she could afford to pursue a second degree.
After researching online and speaking to her college’s financial aid office, Sarah discovered the Teach for America Graduate School Fellowship. This fellowship provided full tuition coverage for a Master’s degree in Education at a partner university. Sarah applied and was awarded the fellowship, which allowed her to pursue her dream of becoming a teacher without worrying about the financial burden.
Case Study 2: John
John had a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and had been working in the field for three years. However, he wanted to switch careers and pursue a degree in Computer Science. John was concerned about the cost of tuition, as he would have to quit his job to pursue a full-time degree.
John’s employer offered tuition assistance for employees pursuing a degree in a field related to their job. John applied for the tuition assistance and was awarded a scholarship that covered 75% of his tuition fees. This scholarship allowed John to pursue his second degree without worrying about the financial burden and also provided him with the opportunity to gain practical experience through an internship with the company.
Statistics on Scholarships for a Second Degree
According to a report by the National Center for Education Statistics, in the 2015-2016 academic year, 1.5 million students received scholarships for their second degree. This accounted for 7% of all undergraduate students receiving scholarships.
The report also states that the average amount of scholarship aid received by students pursuing a second degree was $7,800, which covered 27% of their total tuition and fees. This shows that scholarships can significantly reduce the financial burden of pursuing a second degree.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the answer to the question, “Can you get scholarships for a second degree?” is a resounding yes. Scholarships for a second degree are available in various forms, including merit-based, need-based, and specific field of study scholarships. These scholarships can significantly reduce the financial burden of pursuing a second degree and provide individuals with the opportunity to gain new skills and advance in their careers.
Individuals seeking a second degree should research and explore the various scholarships available, network, and check with their college or university and employers. With determination and perseverance, individuals can obtain scholarships for their second degree and achieve their academic and career goals.
