Bluffton University receives funding through Ohio Behavioral Health Scholarship program
The funding comes via Health Impact Ohio in partnership with the Ohio Department of Behavioral Health and the Ohio Department of Higher Education. It will support Master of Social Work students.
Bluffton University has received a $450,000 award from the Ohio Behavioral Health Scholarship (OBHS) program, which is administered by Health Impact Ohio in partnership with the Ohio Department of Behavioral Health and the Ohio Department of Higher Education. The OBHS program is designed to increase the number of licensed behavioral health professionals working in the state.
According to an article on Bluffton University’s website, Claire Kleman, who serves as the university’s vice president of enrollment and communication, was quoted as saying of the award, "At Bluffton, we believe higher education should prepare students for meaningful careers rooted in service. This scholarship removes financial barriers for future social workers while helping meet Ohio's growing need for behavioral health professionals.”
The OBHS program will provide funding for up to 30 Bluffton University Master of Social Work students to receive up to $15,000 annually in scholarship money. The goal of the initiative is to prepare more licensed behavioral health professionals to work in the state of Ohio’s community behavioral health centers, federally qualified health centers, school-based health clinics, and other settings.
In order to be eligible to receive the funding, students must be Ohio residents who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents and enrolled at least half-time in Bluffton University's Master of Social Work program. In addition, students must agree to working in an approved behavioral health setting after they graduate for the same number of years in which they receive the funding.
Dr. Jeanette Harder, who serves as the MSW program director, said, “We are thrilled with how this award makes our online MSW program even more accessible for students! Our specialization in mental health prepares students to respond to the mental health needs of Ohioans. It's a win for all of us!”
The Master of Social Work program at Bluffton University gives students classroom learning experiences as well as field education opportunities and experiential learning opportunities.
The Ohio Behavioral Health Scholarship program runs through December 31, 2028.
For more information about Bluffton University, visit the school’s website.