Fellows Programs

New Hanover County created two programs providing tuition assistance to in-state college students seeking a career in the mental health care field, pursuing either a master's-level mental health degree program or a doctoral degree as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Image of female therapist in session with a female patient

These programs aim to create a pipeline for mental health and substance use disorder providers locally to serve the growing needs of our community and fill critical gaps in services for underserved populations. This initiative was developed in partnership with community stakeholders to ensure every resident can access services that support their mental well-being.

New Hanover County developed a Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder strategic plan (view the plan here) which identified criteria and priorities for funding from the national opioid settlement and the New Hanover County Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder fund, which will support these fellows programs. 

Students taking part in the psychiatric nurse practitioner program are eligible to receive up to $6,000 per semester for up to three years, while those taking part in the mental health provider fellows program are eligible for up to $3,500 per semester for up to two years.

For 2023-24 spring semester, awardees will be notified in mid-December 2023 if they have been selected to receive funding from the fellows program. The program is renewable each semester with proof of satisfactory academic performance.  

See eligibility requirements, application information, and more details on each program below. 

Click here to download the program flyer (PDF)

Mental Health Provider Fellows Program

Program Summary

The Mental Health Provider Fellows Program was established to ensure that the behavioral and mental health needs of all residents are met by increasing the number of culturally competent master’s level professionals available to serve underrepresented and underserved communities with, or at risk for, mental health and/or substance abuse disorders. 

Award

  • Up to 2 years of funding per student, not to exceed $3,500 per semester or $14,000 for up to 2 years. Awards will be based on individual needs.
  • Awards are disbursed each semester, renewable with proof of satisfactory academic performance.

Application Cycle

Applications for the 2023-24 spring semester will be open from October 30, 2023, to November 27, 2023. Awardees will be announced by mid-December 2023 to allow for tuition disbursement in January 2024.

Eligibility Requirements

  • Demonstrate knowledge of, experience, and a desire to serve people from underserved communities, individuals at risk, and diverse populations.
  • Be enrolled and in good standing in a North Carolina accredited master’s level program required for full and unrestricted licensure.
    • Enrollment may be pending at the time of application; however, if selected, the award will be contingent upon proof of acceptance. 
  • Eligible applicants must have an anticipated program completion date in writing by their academic department prior to awarding funds. 
  • Commit to providing mental health or substance use disorder services in New Hanover County for a minimum of 2 years after becoming fully licensed, providing services to underserved populations and patients covered by Medicaid or who are under/uninsured. Service commitment will be based on the years awarded.
    • Underserved populations include people who are socioeconomically disadvantaged, minority communities, child/adolescent and geriatric groups, minority persons (including LGBTQIA2S+ and people living with HIV/AIDS), or those who are veterans or are from military families.

Application Requirements

  • Completed application
  • Personal essay responses answering the following prompts:
    • Why is it important to provide mental health and substance use disorder resources to underserved communities? (1,500 character limit)
    • How have your activities and contributions impacted the communities you serve? (1,000 character limit)
    • How have your life experiences and community involvement impacted you personally? (1,000 character limit)
  • Two (2) academic or professional letters of recommendation 
  • Current unofficial transcript
  • Resume

Additional Information

  • Failure to comply with all program requirements, maintain satisfactory academic performance, or complete the service obligation will result in repayment and future funding will be forfeited.
  • Award can be combined with other financial assistance. 

Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Fellows Program

Program Summary

The Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Fellows Program helps ensure that the behavioral and mental health needs of all residents are met by growing the capacity of practitioners that will prescribe psychotropic medications. 

Award

  • Up to 3 years of funding per student, not to exceed $6,000 per semester or $36,000 for up to 3 years. Awards will be based on individual needs.
  • Awards are disbursed each semester, renewable with proof of satisfactory academic performance.

Application Cycle

Applications for the 2023-24 spring semester will be open from October 30, 2023, to November 27, 2023. Awardees will be announced by mid-December 2023 to allow for tuition disbursement in January 2024.

Eligibility Requirements

  • Demonstrate knowledge of, experience, and a desire to serve people from underserved communities, individuals at risk, and diverse populations.
  • Be enrolled and in good standing in a North Carolina accredited master’s level program required for full and unrestricted licensure.
    • Enrollment may be pending at the time of application; however, if selected, the award will be contingent upon proof of acceptance. 
  • Eligible applicants must have an anticipated program completion date in writing by their academic department prior to awarding funds. 
  • Commit to providing mental health or substance use disorder services in New Hanover County for a minimum of 3 years after becoming fully licensed, providing services to underserved populations and patients covered by Medicaid or who are under/uninsured. Service commitment will be based on the years awarded.
    • Underserved populations include people who are socioeconomically disadvantaged, minority communities, child/adolescent and geriatric groups, minority persons (including LGBTQIA2S+ and people living with HIV/AIDS), or those who are veterans or are from military families.

Application Requirements

  • Completed application
  • Personal essay responses answering the following prompts:
    • Why is it important to provide mental health and substance use disorder resources to underserved communities? (1,500 character limit)
    • How have your activities and contributions impacted the communities you serve? (1,000 character limit)
    • How have your life experiences and community involvement impacted you personally? (1,000 character limit)
  • Two (2) academic or professional letters of recommendation 
  • Current unofficial transcript
  • Resume

Additional Information

  • Failure to comply with all program requirements, maintain satisfactory academic performance, or complete the service obligation will result in repayment and future funding will be forfeited.
  • Award can be combined with other financial assistance.