Getting a master’s degree in any field means that you’ll qualify for higher-paying positions with more responsibility. In today’s job market, it can also mean that you’re chosen over another candidate, since competition for jobs is so great. However, getting an advanced degree doesn’t come cheap, and many would-be students opt to not go back to school simply because of the cost of education. College grants can help pay for this expensive, giving you the money you need to get your degree.

Grants are like scholarships in that they don’t have to be repaid. Essentially, they are free money for school. However, unlike scholarships, which are given based on merit and other qualifying factors, grants are given almost exclusively based on need. Grant applications typically ask for detailed information about your finances and plans for the money, should you be awarded it.

One of the largest sources for health education grants is the United States government. As an undergraduate student, you likely applied for the Federal Pell Grant, which is given to all students who financially qualify. Students pursuing advanced degrees no longer qualify for the Pell Grant, but many government departments offer grants to students in specific fields. As a health education student, you should start by looking at the funds set up by the United States Department of Health and Human Services. The United States Department of Education may also have grants available for students in your field.

In addition, the government also offers specialized programs in both the health and education field. For example, with the Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education program, you can qualify for up to $4000 per year if you plan to teach in a low-income public school. There are also loan repayment programs, which are kind of like grants, but available after you’ve graduated to help you pay off your student loan debts.

The government is a great place to start, but this isn’t the only place to find grants for college. Many private organizations offer grant programs for students. You can apply both to general grant programs as well as grant programs specifically for students in health-related or education-related fields. Some of the organizations that offer grants include the following:

• Foundation of Research and Education
• Pfizer
• American Association of University Women
• Tylenol
• American Lung Association

There are other organizations that offer grants to students as well, both in the medical education field and for students studying in any field.

Lastly, you should contact your school’s financial aid department. Many colleges offer grants specifically for their students, and as long as you apply, you get the money. In addition, the health education department may have grants available for their students, and may also be able to direct you to local business or alumni who have funds to support health education students studying at your college.