Graduate School Opportunities


About these partnerships

Bonners are predominately first-generation college students and come from low-income backgrounds. They dedicate themselves to civic engagement throughout college. After graduating, over 50% of our Bonner alumni pursue graduate or professional education.

Our partnerships with graduate schools are mutually beneficial. Graduate and professional programs receive a talented pool of students who are civically-minded, high-achieving and eager to contribute to the culture of service and higher learning on the their campuses and communities.

In return, Bonners receive financial assistance, such as application fee waivers, scholarships, stipends, and tuition discounts which help alleviate the economic barriers to pursuing a graduate degree.

To learn more about the graduate school partnerships, watch this promotional video developed by Anu Baskar in July 2022.


🎓 Our Graduate School Partners

The following graduate schools and organizations represent an impressive consortium of Bonner graduate school partners that span a diverse array of academic disciplines and professional studies.

How to Use This Directory:

Each partner school listing includes (when available):

  • Benefit type (scholarship amount, fee waiver, etc.)

  • Who’s Eligible for these benefits

  • Programs Offered (specific degrees offered)

  • Contact person for Bonner-specific inquiries

  • Application deadlines or rolling admissions info

  • Direct link to Bonner-specific information or application portal


  • Location: Washington, D.C.

    💰 Bonner Benefits:

    • Application fee waiver for all Bonner Program students

    • $20,000 scholarship awarded to up to five Bonner Scholars/Bonner Leaders who are accepted into eligible SIS residential Master's programs

    👤 Who’s Eligible:

    • Bonner Scholars/Leaders

    • Bonner Alumni

    🎯 Programs Offered:

    15 Master's Degree programs including fields such as:

    • Environmental Policy

    • International Development

    • Foreign Policy Analysis

    • Conflict Resolution

    • Human Rights

    • And other international affairs specializations

    📧 Bonner Contact:

    Contact Rebecca Coughlin, Associate Director, Graduate Enrollment Management

    Email: coughlin@american.edu

    📅 Application Deadline:

    Contact admissions for specific program deadlines

    🔗 Program Website:

    School of International Service

    Program Description:

    American University's School of International Service (SIS) is a top ten school of international affairs, founded over 60 years ago with a mission of waging peace and improving the human condition. Current students report that the number one reason they chose SIS for their graduate study is the school's ethos of service. Students come to SIS to prepare themselves for careers that matter—whether by influencing environmental policy, developing creative approaches to alleviate poverty, analyzing foreign policy, interrupting cycles of conflict, or advocating for human rights protections, among other ways of making a positive impact on today's pressing global issues. Students from the Bonner Program will find a strong community of colleagues who share their service mindset at SIS. SIS is committed to leveraging its position as one of the largest schools of international affairs in the country to ensure that all voices are at the table when preparing a next generation of leaders in international affairs that better represents the diversity of our country. SIS welcomes students from all backgrounds and with a variety of experiences because the school knows that a diverse professional field will be better able to identify creative solutions to the most challenging issues of our time.


  • Location: Washington, DC (member institutions located nationwide)

    💰 Bonner Benefits:

    • $145 SOPHAS application fee waiver for eligible Bonner applicants

    🧾 How to Access:

    👤 Who’s Eligible:

    • Bonner Scholars/Leaders

    • Bonner Alumni

    🎯 Programs Offered:

    • Programs at CEPH-accredited schools and programs of public health

    • Programs at schools and programs in applicant status for CEPH-accreditation

    • Typical degree programs include:

      • Master of Public Health (MPH)

      • Master of Science in Public Health (MSPH)

      • Doctor of Public Health (DrPH)

      • PhD programs in public health disciplines

    📧 Bonner Contact:

    Tracie Seward, Senior Director of Educational Pathways and Undergraduate Education

    Email: TSeward@aspph.org

    📅 Application Deadline:

    Varies by member institution - check with individual programs

    🔗 Program Website:

    Program Description:

    The Association of Schools and Programs of Public Health (ASPPH) is the voice of accredited academic public health, representing schools and programs accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH). As a 501(c)(3) membership organization located in Washington, DC, ASPPH's mission is to strengthen the capacity of members by advancing leadership, excellence, and collaboration for academic public health. ASPPH members include CEPH-accredited schools and programs of public health as well as schools and programs in applicant status for CEPH-accreditation. Through its partnership with the Bonner Foundation, ASPPH provides eligible Bonner applicants with a $145 SOPHAS application fee waiver, helping to reduce financial barriers for students committed to careers in public health. This partnership makes graduate education in public health more accessible to Bonner students who are passionate about addressing health disparities, promoting wellness, and creating healthier communities through evidence-based practice and policy.


  • Location: Providence, RI

    💰 Bonner Benefits:

    • Application fee waiver ($100)

    • Partial or full-tuition need-based scholarships

    👤 Who’s Eligible:

    • Bonner Scholars/Leaders

    • Bonner Alumni

    🎯 Programs Offered:

    • Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) - One-year program

      • Secondary-school teaching preparation (grades 7-12) in:

        • English

        • Mathematics

        • Social Studies

        • Science (Biology, Chemistry, or Engineering/Physics)

    • Master of Arts in Urban Education Policy (UEP)

      • Full-time (one-year) or part-time (two-year) options

      • Includes nine-month internship

    📧 Bonner Contact:

    Contact Kara McCrudden, Marketing Communications and Recruitment Manager

    Email: kara_mccrudden@brown.edu

    📅 Application Deadline:

    Contact admissions for specific program deadlines

    🔗 Program Website:

    Program Description:

    Whether they aspire to become teachers, policymakers, researchers, or educational leaders, Brown's undergraduate and graduate students are prepared to lead with impact. The academic programs are designed with America's greatest educational needs in mind and prepare students to work at all levels of the educational system to increase equity, accessibility, and innovation. At the center of cutting-edge research is a commitment to addressing inequality in schools. Through research and practice, Brown faculty probe issues such as inequalities in schooling access and student success, often leading the national conversation. The MAT program combines intensive coursework, immersive teaching experiences, and personalized coaching to prepare students to become culturally responsive and impactful educators. The Urban Education Policy program is dedicated to the study of policy analysis, planning, implementation, and development in urban public education systems, with a tightly focused academic curriculum integrated with hands-on experience designed to impart core skills and competencies necessary for successful careers and advanced study in urban education policy.


  • Location: Pittsburgh, PA

    💰 Bonner Benefits:

    • Application fee waiver

    • Minimum scholarship of $30,000 (with further consideration for additional merit-based scholarship support)

    👤 Who’s Eligible:

    • Bonner Scholar/Leaders

    • Bonner Alumni

    • Current Bonner Staff

    🎯 Programs Offered:

    Over 15 Master's Degree programs across information systems, public policy, and management some include:

    • AI Systems Management

    • Healthcare Analytics

    • Public Management

    • Arts Management

    • Entertainment Industry Management

    • Public Policy & Data Analytics

    • Information Systems Management

    📧 Bonner Contact:

    David Eber, Executive Director of Admissions and Financial Aid

    Email: deber@cmu.edu

    📅 Application Deadline:

    Review application process for specific deadlines

    🔗 Program Website:

    Program Description:

    Heinz College is home to two internationally recognized graduate-level institutions: the School of Information Systems and Management and the School of Public Policy and Management. This unique colocation combined with its expertise in analytics sets Heinz College apart in the areas of cybersecurity, health care, the future of work, smart cities, and arts & entertainment. In 2016, INFORMS named Heinz College the #1 academic program for Analytics Education, making it an ideal fit for Bonner students interested in using data and technology to create social impact.


  • Location: Philadelphia, PA

    💰 Bonner Benefits:

    • Application fee waiver for all eligible applicants, regardless of admission decision

    • JD students: Merit-based scholarship at a minimum of $10,000 annually for students who maintain full-time status

    • MLS students: Merit-based scholarship at a minimum of $250 per credit for students in the full-time program who maintain full-time status

    👤 Who’s Eligible:

    • Bonner Scholars/Leaders

    • Bonner Alumni

    🎯 Programs Offered:

    • Juris Doctor (JD) - Standard and accelerated 2-year options

    • Global JD for international students

    • Master of Legal Studies (MLS) - For careers in the growing compliance arena

    • Master of Laws (LLM) for international students

    📧 Bonner Contact:

    Danielle Boardley, Assistant Dean of Student Life

    Email: dbl34@drexel.edu

    📅 Application Deadline:

    Contact admissions for specific program deadlines

    🔗 Program Website:

    Kline School of Law

    Program Description:

    Drexel University launched the Kline School of Law in 2006 with a bold vision to combine an exceptional academic experience with a thorough immersion in the practice of law. As a pioneer in experiential learning and a comprehensive research university, Drexel was especially well suited to the task of creating a curriculum that incorporates both hands-on professional practice experience and scholarly excellence. Year after year, the school attracts students who are both entrepreneurial and cooperative—contributing to a community of focused integrity that is a pleasure to observe and take part in. The school has expanded its offerings to include an accelerated 2-year JD option, a Global JD and LLM for international students, and a Master of Legal Studies program for those pursuing careers in the growing compliance arena, only enhancing the richness and diversity of this truly remarkable community. The Kline School's commitment to experiential learning and its entrepreneurial spirit make it an ideal fit for Bonner students who want to use their legal education to create positive social impact.


  • Location: Richmond, IN

    💰 Bonner Benefits:

    • Full-tuition scholarship for Bonner graduates through the Leadership and Service Scholarship

    👤 Who’s Eligible:

    • Bonner Scholars and Leaders

    • Bonner Alumni

    🎯 Programs Offered:

    • Master of Divinity

    • Master of Arts in Religion

    • Master of Arts in Peace and Social Transformation

    • Master of Arts in Theopoetics and Writing

    • Certificate programs

    • Available both residentially and through ESR Access distance program

    📧 Bonner Contact:

    Phil Hooks, Director of Graduate Recruitment & Admissions

    Email: grathnow@iupui.edu

    📅 Application Deadline:

    Contact admissions for specific program deadlines

    🔗 Program Website:

    Earlham School of Religion

    Program Description:

    Earlham School of Religion (ESR) is a non-creedal Christian graduate theological school in the Quaker traditionthat prepares individuals for leadership that empowers and for ministry that serves. This mission grows out of a Christian belief that God calls everyone to ministry. Using a transformative model of education, ESR encourages students to explore the intellectual, spiritual, and practical dimensions of their calls to ministry. Throughout their history, Quakers have taken a leading role in speaking truth to power, exposing social and economic concerns, and ministering to those among us who are most in need. If these values resonate with you, you can be a part of this continuing work regardless of your religious background. ESR offers Master of Divinity and Master of Arts degrees as well as certificate programs and classes both residentially and through the ESR Access distance program, providing flexible pathways for students at different stages of their journeys. The school's commitment to empowering leadership, transformative education, and service to those in need makes it an ideal fit for Bonner graduates who want to continue their commitment to social justice and community service through theological education and ministry preparation.


  • Location: Atlanta, GA

    💰 Bonner Benefits:

    👤 Who’s Eligible:

    • Bonner Scholars/Leaders

    • Bonner Alumni

    📌 Eligibility Requirements:

    • Successfully meet the requirements of Bonner Scholar or Bonner Leader Program at undergraduate institution

    • Be admitted to the Master of Public Health or Master of Science of Public Health programs at Rollins School of Public Health

    🎯 Programs Offered:

    • Master of Public Health (MPH)

    • Master of Science of Public Health (MSPH)

    • Six academic departments:

      • Behavioral Sciences and Health Education

      • Biostatistics

      • Environmental Health

      • Epidemiology

      • Health Policy and Management

      • Global Health

    📧 Bonner Contact:

    Ivone Foisy, Executive Director of Admission and Enrollment

    Email: sphadmissions@emory.edu

    📅 Application Deadline:

    Contact admissions for specific program deadlines

    🔗 Program Website:

    Rollins School of Public Health

    Program Description:

    At the Rollins School of Public Health at Emory University, students learn to identify, analyze, and intervene in today's most pressing public health issues. The school's location in Atlanta, referred to as the "Public Health Capital of the World," provides unparalleled access to leading public health organizations including the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, CARE, the national home office of the American Cancer Society, The Carter Center, the Arthritis Foundation, numerous state and regional health agencies, and the patient care, teaching, and health-related research programs of Emory University's Woodruff Health Sciences Center. This setting is ideal for hands-on research, collaborations with the world's leading public health agencies, and interdisciplinary work with national and international organizations. The community-oriented public health graduate program attracts students from all 50 states and from more than 40 foreign countries who bring actual problem-solving experiences with them and apply knowledge to promote health and prevent disease in human populations. The top-ranked public health programcomprises six academic departments—behavioral sciences and health education, biostatistics, environmental health, epidemiology, health policy and management, and global health—and hosts over two dozen interdisciplinary centers, providing comprehensive training for the next generation of public health leaders.


  • Location: Washington, D.C.

    💰 Bonner Benefits:

    • Application fee waiver for all Bonner Scholar and Leader applicants

    • $25,000 minimum scholarship award for up to two admitted Bonner Scholars or Leaders

    👤 Who’s Eligible:

    • Current Bonner Scholars and Leaders

    • Bonner Alumni

    🎯 Programs Offered:

    • Master in Public Policy (MPP)

    • Master in International Development Policy

    • Master of Science in Data Science for Public Policy

    • Master in Policy Management

    • Executive Master in Policy Leadership

    • Other dual degree and executive programs

    📧 Bonner Contact:

    Julie Y. Ito, Director of Admissions

    Email: itoj@georgetown.edu

    📅 Application Deadline:

    Contact admissions for specific program deadlines

    🔗 Program Website:

    Program Description:

    The McCourt School of Public Policy at Georgetown University is a top-ranked public policy school located in the center of the policy world in Washington, D.C. The school's mission is to teach students to help design, analyze, and implement smart policies and put them into practice in the public, private, and nonprofit sectors, in the U.S. and around the world. The McCourt School's flagship degree is the Master in Public Policy, preparing students with the analytical skills, practical experience, and professional networks needed to create meaningful policy change. In addition to the MPP, McCourt offers specialized programs including a Master in International Development Policy, a Master of Science in Data Science for Public Policy, a Master in Policy Management, an Executive Master in Policy Leadership, as well as other dual degree and executive programs. The school's location in Washington, D.C. provides unparalleled access to policymakers, government agencies, international organizations, think tanks, and advocacy groups, offering students immersive opportunities to engage directly with the policy process. The McCourt School's commitment to both theoretical rigor and practical application, combined with its prime location and substantial scholarship support, makes it an outstanding choice for Bonner students who want to turn their commitment to service into effective policy leadership that creates positive change at local, national, and global levels.


  • Location: Indianapolis, IN

    💰 Bonner Benefits:

    • Application fee waiver

    • $3,000 tuition scholarship for Indiana residents ($250 per class)

    • $6,000 tuition scholarship for non-residents ($500 per class)

    • Scholarships applied each semester based on number of courses taken

    • May also be eligible for additional admissions-based scholarships

    👤 Who’s Eligible:

    • Bonner Scholars/Leaders

    • Bonner Alumni

    🎯 Programs Offered:

    • Master of Arts in Philanthropic Studies

    📌 Eligibility Requirements:

    • Successfully meet the requirements of Bonner Scholar or Bonner Leader program at undergraduate institution

    • Be admitted to the Master of Arts in Philanthropic Studies program at the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy

    📧 Bonner Contact:

    Contact Greg Rathnow, Assistant Director of Student Recruitment

    Email: grathnow@iupui.edu

    📅 Application Deadline:

    Contact admissions for specific program deadlines

    🔗 Program Website:

    Lilly Family School of Philanthropy

    Program Description:

    The Lilly Family School of Philanthropy seeks to educate and prepare future leaders in the philanthropic sector. With a strong emphasis on community partnerships and practice as part of the educational experience, the school provides multiple avenues for students to apply the skills they learn in the classroom via graduate assistantships and internships. Students pursuing the Master of Arts in Philanthropic Studies engage with community partners through the internship as part of the core curriculum and through student organizations and activities. The program's focus on hands-on experience and community engagement makes it an ideal fit for Bonner students who want to continue their commitment to service while developing expertise in philanthropy, nonprofit leadership, and social impact.

  • Location: Bloomington, IN

    💰 Bonner Benefits:

    • Application fee waiver

    • Award of 25% tuition remission

    👤 Who’s Eligible:

    • Bonner Scholars/Leaders

    • Bonner Alumni

    🎯 Programs Offered:

    Master's degree programs in:

    • Master of Arts in Arts Administration

    • Master of Science in Environmental Science

    • Master of Environmental Sustainability (residential and online)

    • Master of Science in Healthcare Management (residential and online)

    • Master of International Affairs

    • Master of Public Affairs

    • Master of Public Policy

    📧 Bonner Contact:

    Patrick Lewis, Assistant Director of Graduate Student Recruitment, Master’s Programs Office

    Email: patslewi@iu.edu

    📅 Application Deadline:

    Check O'Neill School website for specific deadlines

    🔗 Program Website:

    Paul H. O'Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs

    Program Description:

    The O'Neill School offers professional, interdisciplinary graduate degree programs in public affairs, environmental science, arts administration, healthcare management, and environmental sustainability. Graduates are prepared for leadership positions spanning public, private, and nonprofit sectors. The O'Neill School is home to the #1 ranked Master of Public Affairs program in the nation. Additionally, their Environmental Policy and Natural Resource Management, Nonprofit Management, and Public Finance and Budgeting concentrations are each ranked #1 by U.S. News and World Report, making it an exceptional choice for Bonner students committed to addressing pressing public issues at home and abroad.


  • Location: Monterey, CA

    💰 Bonner Benefits:

    • 20% scholarship each semester for Bonner alumni admitted to onsite master's degree programs

    👤 Who’s Eligible:

    • Bonner Scholars/Leaders

    • Bonner Alumni

    🎯 Programs Offered:

    • 12 Master's degrees

    • 3 Joint Master's degrees

    • 3 Joint BA/MA degrees

    • Language programs for students and professionals

    • Certificate programs

    • Professional development programs

    📧 Bonner Contact:

    Contact Jill Stoffers, Sr. Dir. Institutional Partnerships

    Email: jill.stoffers@middlebury.edu

    📅 Application Deadline:

    Contact admissions for specific program deadlines

    🔗 Program Website:

    Program Description:

    The Middlebury Institute of International Studies (MIIS) is a graduate school of Middlebury College and training ground for developing and implementing practical solutions to global challenges. MIIS is home to some of the world's leading experts who will be your mentors, teaching you how to take your education and experience and make the difference you want in the world. Students are emerging leaders capable of bridging cultural, organizational, and language divides to produce sustainable, equitable solutions to a variety of global challenges. As part of a close-knit and supportive international community of students and faculty, students learn to make a meaningful impact in their chosen field through exciting and relevant degree programs with intentional focus on key skills. MIIS offers comprehensive graduate education including master's degrees, joint degree programs, language training for students and professionals, and certificate and professional development programs—all designed to prepare students for meaningful careers in international affairs and related fields.


  • Location: Baltimore, MD

    💰 Bonner Benefits:

    • Limited tuition scholarships

    • Limited application fee waivers

    👤 Who’s Eligible:

    • Bonner Scholars/Leaders

    • Bonner Alumni

    🎯 Programs Offered:

    • Graves Master of Business Administration (MBA) - AACSB accredited, established in 1969

      • Concentrations: Accounting, Finance, Human Resources Management, Marketing

      • Specializations: Project Management, Supply Chain Management, Entrepreneurship

    • Master of Science in Project Management (MSPM) - AACSB and GAC (Project Management Institute) certified

    • Master of Science in Hospitality Management (MS HOSP)

    • Master of Science in Accounting (MSA) - designed for CPA examination preparation

    📧 Bonner Contact:

    Nicholas B. Fletcher, Assistant Director, Graves School of Business - Masters Programs

    Email: nicholas.fletcher@morgan.edu

    Joseph I. Wells, Director, Graves School of Business - Masters Programs

    Email: joseph.wells@morgan.edu

    📅 Application Deadline:

    Contact admissions for specific deadlines

    🔗 Program Website:

    Graves School of Business and Management

    Program Description:

    As the first Business School in the State of Maryland, the Earl G. Graves School of Business and Management (GSBM) has over 70 years of experience and expertise in preparing students for the business world. GSBM is committed to enhancing academic rigor and quality through curricula that are rigorous, relevant, and forward-looking. Students acquire an advanced set of business skills based on a strong liberal arts foundation, enabling them to be adaptable to different settings, both domestic and global. The school's highly qualified and productive faculty—over 90 percent with Ph.D. degrees in their disciplines—combine years of business world experience with their research in teaching and community engagement. The MBA program is a two-year, 36-credit program consisting of nine core courses and three electives. The MSPM is one of a very select group of programs with both AACSB and GAC certifications, providing comprehensive understanding of project management theory and practice. The MSA program offers specific courses required by the state of Maryland to sit for the CPA examination and prepares graduates for careers in public accounting, investment banking, and corporate financial management.


  • Location: New York, NY

    💰 Bonner Benefits:

    • $85 application fee waiver for all Bonner Scholars and Leaders who apply to the program

    👤 Who’s Eligible:

    • Current Bonner Scholars and Leaders

    • Bonner Alumni

    🎯 Programs Offered:

    • MPA in Public & Nonprofit Management & Policy

    • MPA in Health Policy & Management

    • Master of Urban Planning

    • Online Master of Health Administration

    • Dual Degree Programs

    📧 Bonner Contact:

    Darlene Passarelle, Associate Director of Admissions

    Email: darlene.passarelle@nyu.edu

    📅 Application Deadline:

    Contact admissions for specific program deadlines

    🔗 Program Website:

    NYU's Robert F. Wagner Graduate School of Public Service

    Program Description:

    NYU's Robert F. Wagner Graduate School of Public Service prepares public service leaders to translate ideas into actions that have an effective and lasting impact on the public good. Wagner faculty's research changes the way people frame, understand, and act on important public issues. The school provides students with critical skills, access to all that New York City has to offer, and a deep understanding of context surrounding public service challenges—which they use to improve cities and communities across the globe. Located in the heart of New York City, Wagner students benefit from unparalleled proximity to government agencies, nonprofit organizations, international institutions, and policy organizations, creating exceptional opportunities for hands-on learning, internships, and professional networking. The school offers comprehensive programs including MPA degrees in Public & Nonprofit Management & Policy and Health Policy & Management, a Master of Urban Planning, an Online Master of Health Administration, and numerous dual degree programs that allow students to combine public service education with complementary fields. Wagner's location, diverse program offerings, and commitment to preparing leaders who can create lasting social impact make it an excellent choice for Bonner students passionate about using their education to strengthen cities, communities, and public institutions.


  • Location: Notre Dame, IN

    💰 Bonner Benefits:

    • $10,000 scholarship distributed across the duration of the Graduate Business Program

    • Application fee waiver for all current Bonner Scholars and Leaders, staff, or alumni

    👤 Who’s Eligible:

    • Current Bonner Scholars and Leaders

    • Bonner Alumni

    • Bonner Staff

    🎯 Programs Offered:

    Dozens of graduate programs including:

    • Master of Business Administration

    • Global Executive MBA

    • Business Analytics

    • Accountancy

    • Digital Marketing

    • Finance

    • Management

    • Executive Nonprofit Administration

    • Nonprofit Administration

    • And More

    📧 Bonner Contact:

    Email: info.mendoza@nd.edu

    📅 Application Deadline:

    Contact admissions for specific program deadlines

    🔗 Program Website:

    Program Description:

    A Notre Dame education is a rigorous one that prepares you for business with a balanced worldview. It develops you as a leader—true to your core values—with the moral courage to act with integrity. Notre Dame pushes you to see business as more than a career but a vocation to serve the common good. When you study business at Notre Dame, you don't just learn more. You become more. You grow the good in business: Personal Growth. Business Growth. Societal Growth. Mendoza College of Business offers a comprehensive array of graduate programs designed to develop ethical leaders who understand business as a force for positive change in society.


  • 💰 Bonner Benefits:

    All participants receive the following support at no charge throughout the graduate school application process:

    • Individualized support and extensive counseling as you clarify your graduate education and career goals, choose graduate programs, and apply to a renowned consortium of graduate schools across the country

    • Application fee waivers for 10-12 graduate programs (a savings of at least $1,000)

    • One-on-one coaching and advising as you fine-tune statements of purpose, resumes, and writing samples

    • Personalized support throughout the matriculation and placement decision-making process

    👤 Who’s Eligible:

    • Bonner Scholars/Leaders

    • Bonner Alumni

    🎯 Programs Offered:

    The IRT offers two distinct programs:

    1. Summer Workshop

    • For college juniors and seniors who intend to pursue graduate study immediately upon completion of their undergraduate degree

    • Graduate education in humanities, social sciences, and education

    2. Associate Program

    • For college juniors and seniors, recent graduates, and working professionals

    • Graduate education in humanities, social sciences, and education

    📧 Bonner Contact:

    Contact irt@andover.edu for admissions contact information

    📅 Application Deadline:

    Contact IRT for specific program deadlines

    🔗 Program Website:

    Institute for Recruitment of Teachers

    Program Description:

    The Institute for Recruitment of Teachers empowers talented underserved and underrepresented future educators to teach and serve as leaders in American education because diversity is essential to excellence. IRT provides comprehensive, personalized support throughout the entire graduate school application journey, helping participants identify and apply to graduate programs that align with their career goals. Through individualized counseling, application coaching, and substantial financial support in the form of application fee waivers for multiple institutions, IRT removes barriers and creates pathways for future educators from diverse backgrounds to pursue advanced degrees in the humanities, social sciences, and education. The program's commitment to supporting underserved students makes it an ideal partnership for Bonner graduates who are passionate about educational leadership and equity.


  • Location: Winter Park, FL

    💰 Bonner Benefits:

    • Guaranteed $10,000 scholarship for admitted Bonner graduates

    • Application fee waiver

    • May also be eligible for additional admissions and leadership-based scholarships

    👤 Who’s Eligible:

    • Bonner Scholars/Leaders

    • Bonner Alumni

    🎯 Programs Offered:

    📧 Bonner Contact:

    Contact graduate-business@rollins.edu for admissions contact information

    📅 Application Deadline:

    Contact admissions for specific deadlines

    🔗 Program Website:

    📌 Eligibility Requirements:

    • Provide verification letter from your Bonner program adviser or central office

    • Successfully complete requirements of Bonner program at undergraduate institution

    • Maintain good academic standing to maintain scholarship support

    Program Description:

    The Crummer Graduate School of Business seeks to provide an excellent education to students who focus on leadership and philanthropy through immersive experiences. The Early Advantage MBA allows students to learn by experience and serve the community through both in- and out-of-classroom experiences. The Crummer MBA has been ranked #1 by HR.com for the past 5 years. Students can join multiple student organizations, serve as executive members of nonprofit boards, develop and direct community service projects, and participate in over 100 leadership development events offered each year. The Early Advantage MBA does not require work experience and is open to students of all majors, making it an ideal fit for Bonner graduates who want to positively impact organizations and understand philanthropy from all perspectives.


  • Location: Brattleboro, VT (with learning centers in 29 countries globally)

    💰 Bonner Benefits:

    For Bonner Alumni (Scholars and Leaders):

    • Application fee waiver

    • $7,500 scholarship for Part-Time Hybrid degree programs

    • $10,000 scholarship for Global Master's degree programs

    For Current Bonner Staff:

    • Application fee waiver

    • $7,500 scholarship for Part-Time Hybrid degree programs

    👤 Who’s Eligible:

    • Bonner Scholars and Leaders

    • Bonner Alumni

    • Current Bonner Staff

    Scholarship Process:

    • No separate application process for the SIT/Bonner scholarship

    • Scholarship automatically granted upon acceptance to SIT Graduate program

    • Requires confirmation of eligible status from University/College and Bonner program staff

    • Bonner program staff verify applicants to SIT staff via email

    🎯 Programs Offered:

    Global Master's Degrees:

    • Climate Change & Global Sustainability

    • Diplomacy & International Relations

    • Humanitarian Assistance & Crisis Management

    • International Education

    • Sustainable Development Practice

    Online Doctoral Programs:

    • EdD in Global Education

    • PhD in International Relations

    • PhD in Sustainability

    Certificate Programs:

    • Certificate in TESOL

    • Professional Certification in Education Abroad

    📧 Bonner Contact:

    • For questions about Partner Scholarships contact Sarah Pietryka Tucker, Assistant Director of Student Financial Support

    Email: sarah.pietrykatucker@sit.edu

    • Other questions: Jordan Byrne Mroz, University Relations Manager

    Email: jordan.byrne@sit.edu

    📅 Application Deadline:

    Varies by program - review application process for specific deadlines

    🔗 Program Website:

    Program Description:

    School for International Training (SIT) offers accredited, experiential programs that address today's most critical global issues. Founded in 1964 and based in southern Vermont, SIT provides experiential global graduate-level certificates, master's, and doctorate degrees in formats that fit the needs of professionals working for change in their communities, their countries, and their planet. As the only U.S.-accredited university tied to an international NGO, SIT's global campus comprises nearly 40 learning centers in 29 countries, preparing students to become professionals with the skills to work within diverse environments both in the United States and abroad. SIT develops programs within a framework of the most critical global issues of the day—including climate change, international conflict, humanitarian crises, global education, and sustainable development—so that the next generation of leaders has the expertise and intercultural understanding they need to engage all identities, perspectives, and cultures with respectful, enduring, and meaningful responses. With over 60 years of experience as a leading higher education institution and over 68,000 students who have participated in SIT programs, the school brings deep expertise in experiential learning, intercultural competence, and global engagement. Whether pursuing global master's degrees that immerse students in learning centers around the world, flexible online doctoral programs, or professional certificate programs, SIT students benefit from expert faculty, a truly global learning environment, and a commitment to developing leaders who can create meaningful change on pressing global challenges.


  • Location: Greeneville, TN

    💰 Bonner Benefits:

    • Annual graduate assistantship to support the Bonner Leader Program and Center for Civic Advancement

    • Full tuition for any Tusculum University graduate program (room, board, books, and some fees not included)

    • $5,000 annual stipend for working approximately 20 hours/week

    🎯 Programs Offered:

    • Master of Arts in Education

      • Curriculum & Instruction (Online)

      • Special Education (Hybrid)

      • Dual Endorsement Interventionist K-8 and Comprehensive K-12

    • Master of Arts in E-Learning Leadership

    • Master of Arts in Organizational Training & Performance Management (Online)

    • Master of Arts in Teaching - Initial Certification (Hybrid with Synchronous Zoom)

      • Elementary Education K-5 Licensure

      • Secondary Education 6-12 Licensure (content specific)

      • K-12 Licensure (content specific)

    • Master of Business Administration (Online & In-Person)

    • Master of Sport Management (Online)

    📧 Bonner Contact:

    Justice Upp, Coordinator for the Center for Civic Advancement and Programming

    Email: jupp@tusculum.edu

    📅 Application Deadline:

    Contact admissions for specific program deadlines

    🔗 Program Website:

    Program Description:

    Tusculum University's Center for Civic Advancement partners with the Bonner Foundation to offer an exceptional annual graduate assistantship specifically designed to support Bonner Leaders who want to continue their commitment to civic engagement while pursuing graduate education. This unique opportunity provides full tuition coverage for any of Tusculum University's graduate programs, combined with a $5,000 annual stipend for approximately 20 hours per week of work supporting the Bonner Leader Program and Center for Civic Advancement. Graduate assistants gain valuable professional experience in civic engagement programming, student leadership development, and community partnership coordination while earning their advanced degree. Tusculum offers a comprehensive range of graduate programs across education, business, sport management, and organizational training, with flexible delivery formats including online, hybrid, and in-person options to accommodate working professionals. This assistantship makes graduate education highly accessible for Bonner Leaders who want to deepen their expertise while continuing to make a difference through civic engagement and community service.


  • Location: Little Rock, AR

    💰 Bonner Benefits:

    • No application fee for either program

    • Minimum $5,000 merit scholarship for up to 5 admitted Bonner alumni (for either MPS or CSO program)

    • Up to $5,000 employer-match funding available for CSO program

    • No GRE exam required

    👤 Who’s Eligible:

    • Bonner Scholars/Leaders

    • Bonner Alumni

    🎯 Programs Offered:

    📧 Bonner Contact:

    Alex Thomas, Director of Enrollment and Alumni Services

    Email: aethomas@clintonschool.uasys.edu

    📅 Application Deadline:

    Contact admissions for specific program deadlines

    🔗 Program Website:

    Clinton School of Public Service

    Program Description:

    In 2004, President Clinton launched the Clinton School of Public Service, a non-partisan graduate program in the University of Arkansas system designed for people around the globe who are passionate about developing public service solutions in a world of need. The Clinton School offers both a 100% Online Master of Public Service (CSO) and an In-Person Master of Public Service (MPS), with distinct scholarships available to admitted Bonner students and alumni. The Clinton School Online (CSO) is designed for mid-career professionals with at least 3 years of professional experience, making it perfect for Bonner alumni who desire to work full-time and live anywhere in the world while pursuing their master's degree. The CSO application has no application fee and does not require the GRE exam—the Clinton School wants graduate education to be accessible to all who seek to serve the public good. As a partnership with the Bonner network, the Clinton School will award at least $5,000 of merit scholarship to either Clinton School Master of Public Service degree (MPS or CSO) for up to 5 Bonner alumni who are admitted. In addition to merit scholarships, the Clinton School also offers up to $5,000 of employer-match funding for the CSO program, making graduate education even more accessible for working professionals committed to public service.


  • Location: Houston, TX

    💰 Bonner Benefits:

    • Application fee waiver for Bonner alumni and current Bonner students applying to any UH Master's or PhD program

    👤 Who’s Eligible:

    • Bonner Scholars and Leaders

    • Bonner Alumni

    🎯 Programs Offered:

    📧 Bonner Contact:

    Contact gradschool@uh.edu for admissions contact information

    📅 Application Deadline:

    Varies by program - contact admissions for specific deadlines

    🔗 Program Website:

    Program Description:

    For nearly a century, the University of Houston, the third largest university in the state of Texas, has dared to push the boundaries of academic excellence and groundbreaking research. Its students have dared to take on new challenges and prepare themselves for global careers. And the city in which it is based—Houston—dares to be a center of innovation for energy, space exploration, and medicine. As the region's premiere Tier 1 public research university, UH offers master's and doctoral programs across a wide range of disciplines through the UH Graduate School. With degree options spanning numerous fields, UH provides an inclusive environment for discovery and success, preparing students to become leaders and innovators in their chosen fields. The university's location in Houston, a global hub for innovation and industry, provides students with unparalleled opportunities for research collaboration, internships, and professional networking across multiple sectors. Whether pursuing advanced study in the sciences, humanities, professional fields, or interdisciplinary programs, students at the University of Houston Graduate School benefit from world-class faculty, cutting-edge research facilities, and a diverse, dynamic academic community committed to excellence and innovation.


  • Location: Ann Arbor, MI

    💰 Bonner Benefits:

    • Application fee waiver for Bonner Scholars and Leaders who apply to the program

    • Application fee waivers granted on a first come, first serve basis

    👤 Who’s Eligible:

    • Bonner Scholars/Leaders

    • Bonner Alumni

    🎯 Programs Offered:

    • Juris Doctor (JD)

    • Other law degree programs

    📧 Bonner Contact:

    To request an application fee waiver, email liz@bonner.org with your full name, Bonner institution, and graduate year

    📅 Application Deadline:

    Contact admissions for specific program deadlines

    🔗 Program Website:

    University of Michigan Law School

    Program Description:

    The University of Michigan Law School in Ann Arbor is one of the world's finest institutions of legal education. Housed in the Cook Quadrangle on the University of Michigan's central campus, the Law School is unmatched for beauty and is superbly functional for its residential and scholarly community. The School has a sizable and diverse faculty, with many preeminent in their fields. The careers of alumni also speak eloquently to the strength of the School; graduates are leaders serving with distinction in the public, private, and academic sectors in this nation and beyond. Michigan Law's commitment to excellence in legal education, combined with its beautiful campus setting and distinguished faculty, makes it an outstanding choice for Bonner students who want to pursue careers that make a meaningful difference in the legal profession and society.


  • Location: Minneapolis, MN

    💰 Bonner Benefits:

    • All students: Automatic approval for application fee waivers upon request

    • In-state students: Minimum scholarship of $10,000, with further consideration for additional merit-based scholarship support

    • Out-of-state students: Minimum scholarship of $10,000 and a Non-Resident Tuition Waiver (approximately $20,000 value), with further consideration for additional merit-based scholarship support

    👤 Who’s Eligible:

    • Bonner Scholars/Leaders

    • Bonner Alumni

    🎯 Programs Offered:

    • Master of Development Practice

    • Master of Human Rights

    • Master of Public Affairs (Mid-Career)

    • Master of Public Policy

    • Master of Science in Science, Technology, and Environmental Policy

    • Master of Urban and Regional Planning

    • PhD in Public Affairs

    • Five certificate programs

    📧 Bonner Contact:

    Michael Massad, Director of Admissions

    Email: mmassad@umn.edu

    📅 Application Deadline:

    Review application process for specific deadlines

    🔗 Program Website:

    Program Description:

    The Humphrey School of Public Affairs at the University of Minnesota ranks among the country's top 10 professional public policy and planning schools, widely recognized for its success in advancing the common good through a comprehensive, world-class program. The School offers six distinctive master's degrees, a doctoral degree, and five certificate programs that match students' passion with the knowledge, skills, and experience needed to solve real-world challenges. Bonner Scholars, Leaders, and alumni interested in pursuing a master's degree are encouraged to apply for admission to any of the Humphrey School's master's degree programs. The school's commitment to public service and policy excellence, combined with substantial scholarship support (including non-resident tuition waivers for out-of-state students), makes it an outstanding choice for Bonner students passionate about advancing the common good and addressing pressing public policy challenges.


  • Location: Philadelphia, PA

    💰 Bonner Benefits:

    • Application fee waiver for all Bonner Scholars, Leaders, alumni, and staff

    • Guaranteed scholarship of at least $15,000 for accepted students

    👤 Who’s Eligible:

    • Current Bonner Scholars and Leaders

    • Bonner Alumni

    • Current Bonner Staff

    🎯 Programs Offered:

    • Master of Public Administration (MPA) - 9-course, 9 c.u. one-year program including capstone project and summer internship, designed for early career professionals and individuals looking to pivot into the public administration or nonprofit sectors

    • Executive Master of Public Administration (Executive MPA) - 10-course, 10 c.u. program including capstone project and practical experience; low-residency hybrid format allows students to complete an Ivy League degree in less than two years while continuing to work full time

    📧 Bonner Contact:

    Contact Mindy Zacharjasz, Program Manager

    Email: mindyzac@sas.upenn.edu

    📅 Application Deadline:

    Contact admissions for specific program deadlines

    🔗 Program Website:

    University of Pennsylvania's Fels Institute of Government

    Program Description:

    The Fels Institute of Government at the University of Pennsylvania is the most practical, personal public administration program in the Ivy League, featuring a small cohort of students taught by high-level practitioners and distinguished Penn scholars. The institute offers two degree pathways to accommodate different career stages and professional commitments. The Master of Public Administration (MPA) is a comprehensive one-year program (9 courses, 9 c.u.) that includes a capstone project and summer internship, specifically designed for early career professionals and individuals looking to pivot into the public administration or nonprofit sectors. For working professionals, the Executive Master of Public Administration (Executive MPA) is a 10-course, 10 c.u. program featuring a low-residency hybrid format that enables students to complete an Ivy League degree in less than two years while continuing to work full time. Both programs combine rigorous academic training with practical experience, preparing graduates to lead with impact in government, nonprofits, and the broader public sector. The Fels Institute's intimate learning environment, distinguished faculty of practitioners and scholars, and flexible program options make it an ideal choice for Bonner graduates committed to public service and social impact.

  • Location: Philadelphia, PA

    💰 Bonner Benefits:

    • Application fee waiver for PhD programs in Biostatistics and Epidemiology

    👤 Who’s Eligible:

    • Bonner Scholars/Leaders

    • Bonner Alumni

    🎯 Programs Offered:

    📧 Bonner Contact:

    For waiver code: Liz Brandt at liz@bonner.org

    For program questions: bgs@pennmedicine.upenn.edu

    📅 Application Deadline:

    Contact program for specific deadlines

    🔗 Program Website:

    University of Pennsylvania's Perelman School of Medicine

    Program Description:

    The PhD programs in epidemiology and biostatistics at the University of Pennsylvania's Perelman School of Medicine offer students a unique, interdisciplinary framework in which they will develop and hone their skills as independent investigators. Through rigorous coursework and immersive research, students are trained to develop, apply, and extend biostatistical and epidemiological methodologies to address questions in the biomedical sciences. Graduates are prepared to assume leadership roles in academia, industry, and the nonprofit sector. Penn's Perelman School of Medicine provides an exceptional environment for Bonner students passionate about using quantitative and epidemiological methods to advance public health and biomedical research, with training that emphasizes both methodological rigor and real-world application to address critical health challenges.

  • Location: Philadelphia, PA

    💰 Bonner Benefits:

    • Application fee waiver for all Bonner Scholars, Leaders, alumni, and staff

    • Guaranteed $15,000 one-time scholarship for admitted students

    👤 Who’s Eligible:

    • Current Bonner Scholars and Leaders

    • Bonner Alumni

    • Bonner Staff

    🎯 Programs Offered:

    📧 Bonner Contact:

    To receive application fee waiver: Email apply@sp2.upenn.edu with your name and current or past affiliation with Bonner

    For general program questions: infonpl@sp2.upenn.edu

    📅 Application Deadline:

    Contact admissions for specific program deadlines

    🔗 Program Website:

    Master of Science in Nonprofit Leadership Program

    Program Description:

    The Master of Science in Nonprofit Leadership Program at the University of Pennsylvania prepares nonprofit leaders and social entrepreneurs to guide organizations tackling some of the world's most complex social challenges. Students learn to create social impact through thoughtful, inventive, and meaningful work in nonprofits, charitable foundations, international NGOs, and more. This program is ideal for existing nonprofit professionals, those looking to launch their careers, or career changers from other sectors. The curriculum is customizable and can meet the needs and interests of any potential student interested in a career in social impact, no matter where they are in their career. The flexible program structure allows students to take 8 C.U. within the Nonprofit Leadership Program core and 2 "Penn Electives" in any graduate program of their choice, creating truly interdisciplinary preparation. With options for full-time, part-time, online, and on-campus study, the program accommodates diverse professional and personal needs, making it an excellent fit for Bonner graduates who want to continue their commitment to social impact while advancing their leadership capacity in the nonprofit sector.


  • Location: Charlottesville, VA

    💰 Bonner Benefits:

    • Application fee waiver for all Bonner Scholars and Leaders

    • Minimum guaranteed fellowship for accepted students:

      • Virginia residents: $10,000 per year for two years ($20,000 total)

      • Non-Virginia residents: $17,500 per year for two years ($35,000 total)

    👤 Who’s Eligible:

    • Bonner Scholars and Leaders

    • Bonner Alumni

    🎯 Programs Offered:

    • Master of Public Policy (MPP)

    • Dual degree programs

    📧 Bonner Contact:

    Jeff Chidester, Executive Director of External Affairs

    Email: jchidester@virginia.edu

    📅 Application Deadline:

    Contact admissions for specific program deadlines

    🔗 Program Website:

    Program Description:

    As part of the University of Virginia, consistently ranked as one of the top three public schools in the nation by U.S. News & World Report, Batten students enjoy the resources and network of a premier research institution. Of the 250-plus schools of public policy and administration in the U.S., the Batten School has the distinction of being the only one explicitly committed to teaching leadership—how it works, why context matters in decision-making, and which actions lead to tangible results. This unique focus on leadership sets the Batten School apart, preparing students not just to understand policy but to lead effectively in implementing it. Graduates of the Batten School are in high demand, recruited aggressively by government agencies from the intelligence community to Congress, local interest groups and NGOs, and by private-sector employers from consulting firms to investment-risk analysts. The Bonner/Batten Partnership encourages current and former Bonner Scholars and Bonner Leaders interested in pursuing graduate education in leadership and public policy to apply to the Batten MPP, where they will join a program that uniquely integrates leadership training with policy expertise to create leaders who can drive meaningful change in the public sector and beyond.

  • 💰 Bonner Benefits:

    • Application fee waiver

    • Minimum annual scholarship of $5,000 (with further consideration for additional merit-based scholarship support)

    👤 Who’s Eligible:

    • Bonner Scholars/Leaders

    • Bonner Alumni

    • Current Bonner Staff

    🎯 Programs Offered:

    📧 Bonner Contact:

    Cindy Kiefer, Director of Admission and Financial Aid

    Email: cgk4h@virginia.edu

    📅 Application Deadline:

    Contact admissions for specific program deadlines

    🔗 Program Website:

    Program Description:

    As part of a renowned research institution with top-ranking graduate programs, UVA's School of Architecture shapes a new generation of innovative leaders, thinkers, designers, and makers committed to creating the most just, compelling, and courageous of futures. The school attracts students seeking to advance their education in design and the built environment while engaging with critical issues of spatial, environmental, and social justice. Graduate students have the unique opportunity to learn and work collaboratively across four departments—architecture, architectural history, landscape architecture, and urban and environmental planning—catalyzing new approaches to address our world's complex challenges with rigor and empathy. As a public institution, the school is deeply committed to building, promoting, and sustaining a culture of inclusion and equity.


  • Location: Nashville, TN

    💰 Bonner Benefits:

    • Application fee waiver for all Bonner Scholars and Leaders

    • MS students: 80% tuition remission

    • PhD students: Guaranteed full funding including 12-month stipend, full tuition waiver, and student health insurance

    👤 Who’s Eligible:

    • Bonner Scholars/Leaders

    • Bonner Alumni

    🎯 Programs Offered:

    📧 Bonner Contact:

    Contact Simon Vandekar, Director of Graduate Recruitment for the Department of Biostatistics

    Email: simon.vandekar@vumc.org

    📅 Application Deadline:

    Apply by January 15 to be considered for the following fall semester

    See Application Process for details on requesting fee waiver

    🔗 Program Website:

    Vanderbilt University Biostatistics Graduate Program

    Program Description:

    Vanderbilt University's Biostatistics Graduate Program trains flexible thinkers to become leaders in academia, industry, and government. The program features rigorous classroom training, real-world apprenticing, exceptional computational preparation, and one-to-one mentoring in the theory, methodology, and application of biostatistics in biomedical research. Vanderbilt Biostatistics is among the top 15 programs in the nation per U.S. News and World Report. Students gain comprehensive training that prepares them for leadership positions across multiple sectors, with a curriculum that emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical application. The program's commitment to mentorship and computational excellence, combined with generous funding packages for graduate students, makes it an outstanding choice for Bonner students interested in using quantitative methods to address critical questions in biomedical research and public health.

  • Location: Nashville, TN

    💰 Bonner Benefits:

    • Application fee waiver for all Bonner Scholars and Leaders

    • Minimum 30% tuition scholarship for accepted students

    👤 Who’s Eligible:

    • Bonner Scholars/Leaders

    • Bonner Alumni

    🎯 Programs Offered:

    • 16 Master's programs

    • 3 Ed.D. (Doctor of Education) programs

    • Focus areas include:

      • Educational Neuroscience

      • Child, Family, and Community Development

      • Special Education

      • Learning Sciences

      • Educational Leadership and Policy

    📌 Eligibility Requirements:

    • Submit complete application by priority deadline

    • Earn admission to a Master's or Ed.D. program at Peabody College

    • Successfully complete requirements of Bonner Scholar or Bonner Leader Program at undergraduate institution

    • Provide verification letter from Bonner program adviser or central office

    • Maintain good academic standing to maintain scholarship support

    • Possess an interest in education policy and research

    📧 Bonner Contact:

    Contact peabody.admissions@vanderbilt.edu for admissions contact information

    📅 Application Deadline:

    Priority deadline: January 3

    🔗 Program Website:

    Peabody College of Education and Human Development

    Funding Your Education - Special Awards

    Program Description:

    Peabody College of Education and Human Development at Vanderbilt University seeks to enhance the human condition, with a particular focus on children's learning and development. They accomplish this mission through the preparation of teachers and leaders, through cycles of research, implementation, and refinement, through service to families, schools, and communities, and through external engagement with professionals, leaders, and policymakers. Peabody's focus on learning differences has helped define the college, as has a reputation for empirical rigor in educational neuroscience, child, family, and community development, special education, the learning sciences, and educational leadership and policy. Peabody is devoted to creating opportunity in an increasingly diverse society and to solving large societal problems. Bonner program participants and alumni interested in education policy and research are strongly encouraged to apply.


  • Location: Winston-Salem, NC

    💰 Bonner Benefits:

    • Application fee waiver for all Bonner Scholars and Leaders

    • Minimum full-tuition scholarship for all admitted Bonner Scholars and Leaders

    👤 Who’s Eligible:

    • Bonner Scholars and Leaders

    • Bonner Alumni

    🎯 Programs Offered:

    • Master of Divinity (MDiv)

    • Doctor of Ministry (DMin)

    • Master of Arts in Religion

    • MDiv / MA in Bioethics

    • MDiv / MA in Counseling

    • MDiv / MA in Education

    • MDiv / MS in Management

    • MDiv / MA in Sustainability

    • JD / MDiv

    📧 Bonner Contact:

    Brittani Hunt, Assistant Dean of Admissions and Student Services

    Email: huntb@wfu.edu

    📅 Application Deadline:

    Contact admissions for specific program deadlines

    🔗 Program Website:

    Wake Forest University School of Divinity

    Program Description:

    Wake Forest University School of Divinity is a growing, dynamic theological environment that prepares all folks to minister in a rapidly changing world. The faculty and staff encourage a culture of learning that nurtures critical inquiry, theological reflection, and the integration of theory and hands-on impact in ministry. The school's goal is to prepare leaders who balance deep thinking with compassion and wisdom as they work toward God's justice in the world and bring good news to those in need. The mission is simple: equip students to become agents of justice, reconciliation, and compassion. Wake Forest's School of Divinity offers the Master of Divinity (MDiv) degree along with dual degrees and concentrations in bioethics, counseling, education, law (J.D.), management, and sustainability, providing students with comprehensive preparation for diverse forms of ministry and service. The school's commitment to balancing theological depth with practical ministry preparation, combined with its emphasis on justice, reconciliation, and compassion, makes it an ideal fit for Bonner graduates who want to continue their commitment to social justice and community service through theological education and ministry leadership.


  • Location: Lexington, Virginia

    💰 Bonner Benefits:

    • Application fee waiver for all eligible applicants, regardless of admission decision

    • No additional steps required for Bonner Scholars or Leaders to request the fee waiver

    • Scholarship of at least $10,000 for each of three years of law school for admitted Bonner applicants

    • Students may also earn additional assistantships, fellowships, or other awards based on academic credentials and/or performance

    • Total funding cannot exceed the cost of tuition and fees

    👤 Who’s Eligible:

    • Bonner Scholars/Leaders

    • Bonner Alumni

    📌 Eligibility Requirements:

    • Must be enrolled in the J.D. program

    • Must maintain a standard of behavior representative of prospective member of the legal profession

    🎯 Programs Offered:

    📧 Bonner Contact:

    Contact LawAdm@wlu.edu for admissions contact information

    📅 Application Deadline:

    Contact admissions for specific program deadlines

    🔗 Program Website:

    Washington and Lee School of Law

    Program Description:

    One of the smallest of the nation's top-tier law schools, Washington and Lee School of Law is located in a college town in the majestic Shenandoah Valley of Virginia, a three-hour drive from Washington, DC and within an hour of several other metropolitan areas. The Washington and Lee University School of Law seeks to cultivate broad-minded, highly skilled, and honorable practitioners of law within a diverse and collaborative intellectual community exemplifying rigor, trust, and civility. W&L's intimate setting, combined with its commitment to honor and excellence, creates an ideal environment for Bonner students who want to pursue legal careers grounded in service, integrity, and ethical leadership. The school's emphasis on collaboration and civility, paired with substantial scholarship support for Bonner graduates, makes it an outstanding choice for students committed to using their legal education to advance justice and serve their communities.


  • Location: St. Louis, MO

    💰 Bonner Benefits:

    • Guaranteed minimum $20,000 annual scholarship for all Bonner members and alumni admitted to MSW or MSP programs

    • Two (2) $50,000 Dean's Scholarships reserved for exceptional Bonner MSW applicants in each incoming cohort

    • $50 application fee waiver (contact brownadmissions@wustl.edu to request)

    🎯 Programs Offered:

    • Master of Social Work (MSW)

      • Traditional two-year full-time track

      • Part-time option

      • Accelerated advanced standing options

      • Multiple areas of study

    • Master of Social Policy (MSP) - One-year program

    📧 Bonner Contact:

    Shaina Peterson, Associate Director of Admissions & Recruitment

    Email: shaina@wustl.edu

    📅 Application Deadline:

    Contact admissions for specific program deadlines

    🔗 Program Website:

    Brown School at Washington University in St. Louis

    Program Description:

    The Brown School at Washington University in St. Louis offers nationally recognized Master of Social Work (MSW) and Master of Social Policy (MSP) programs that prepare students to lead change within communities, organizations, and systems. As one of the nation's oldest schools of social work, the Brown School brings more than a century of leadership, excellence, and innovation to the field. Faculty are engaged in field-defining research, exploring critical questions such as "How do we build social and economic wellbeing?" and "How do we ensure the best possible care for all?" With a customizable curriculum, robust hands-on learning, and pioneering leadership in areas like evidence-based clinical practice, international social work, implementation science, and social and economic development, the Brown School fosters a collaborative environment where students build the knowledge, skills, and values to become effective, ethical clinicians, advocates, and policy leaders. The MSW program offers several areas of study and multiple pathways, including a traditional two-year full-time track, a part-time option, and accelerated advanced standing options. The one-year MSP is designed to equip students with skills to impact the U.S. policy ecosystem, offering focused, flexible training for those pursuing policy careers with impact. The Brown School's commitment to excellence combined with substantial scholarship support makes it an outstanding choice for Bonner students passionate about social work, social policy, and creating meaningful change in communities.


  • Location: Morgantown, WV

    💰 Bonner Benefits:

    • Graduate application fee waiver for all Bonner Scholars and Leaders who apply to MA and PhD programs

    👤 Who’s Eligible:

    • Bonner Scholars and Leaders

    • Bonner Alumni

    🎯 Programs Offered:

    • Master of Arts (MA) in Political Science

    • PhD in Political Science

    • Focus areas include:

      • American Politics

      • Public Policy

      • Comparative Politics

      • International Politics

    📧 Bonner Contact:

    William Franko, Associate Professor, Director of Graduate Studies

    Email: william.franko@mail.wvu.edu

    📅 Application Deadline:

    Contact department for specific program deadlines

    🔗 Program Website:

    Program Description:

    The Department of Political Science at West Virginia University offers MA and PhD programs that provide advanced training to students who desire to enter research or teaching fields related to American politics, public policy, comparative politics, and international politics, and to those seeking careers as policy analysts in government or the private sector. West Virginia University (WVU) is a comprehensive research university with a mission of creating a diverse and inclusive culture that advances education, healthcare and prosperity for all by providing access and opportunity, by advancing high-impact research, and by leading transformation in West Virginia and the world through local, state and global engagement. The Department's graduate programs prepare students for impactful careers in research, teaching, policy analysis, and public service through rigorous academic training and opportunities to engage with pressing political and policy challenges at local, state, national, and international levels. WVU's commitment to access, opportunity, and transformation makes it an excellent choice for Bonner students passionate about using political science to create positive change in their communities and beyond.


alumni spotlights

Danielle Aira Savellano

Graduate Program: Carnegie Mellon University - Heinz College of Information Systems and Public Policy → MS Health Care Analytics and IT

Bonner Program: Allegheny College

Benefit Received: $30,000 Bonner-Heinz scholarship & PPIA fellow 100% tuition scholarship

“My passion for healthcare stems from personal experiences growing up in the Philippines and transitioning to life in the USA. My different summer internships provided me with a comprehensive perspective and array of skills for this pursuit, especially after immersing myself in public policy and data analysis at the PPIA Junior Summer Institute, biostatistics and epidemiology at Columbia University, and community outreach and education in the Philippines. It was during Bonner Congress that I learned about the PPIA fellowship program.”
— Danielle Aira Savellano

Resources for students and alumni

Click image to download PDF copy of Graduate School Opportunities for Students.

Need help with your application process?

Find more resources for career exploration and development at the Bonner Wiki links below.


for graduate school partners

Why Partner with Bonner?

Click image to download PDF copy of Handbook for Graduate School Partners.

Talented, Mission-Driven Students:

  • 20,000+ alumni with proven commitment to community engagement

  • 3,000+ predominantly low-income, first-generation students who bring diverse perspectives

  • High-achieving scholars with deep, sustained commitment to community service

  • 80% remain civically engaged after graduation

  • Over 50% pursue graduate education

Partnership Benefits:

  • Access to a pre-screened pool of values-aligned candidates

  • Students who contribute to campus culture of service and social responsibility

  • Enhanced diversity in your graduate cohorts

  • Connection to a national network of community-engaged institutions

  • Recognition as a partner committed to equity and access in graduate education

What Partnership Entails:

  • Offer special benefits to Bonner students/alumni (scholarships, fee waivers, etc.)

  • Designate a contact person for Bonner-specific inquiries

  • Share program updates and opportunities with the Bonner network


recent announcements

If you are a representative of a current Bonner graduate school partner and have an announcement to share with the Bonner Network, please submit the information through the link below.

submit announcement here

Contact & Next Steps

Interested in partnering with Bonner?

Fill out this Graduate School Interest Form to be contacted by Liz Brandt, Director of Community Engagement at the Bonner Foundation, to discuss:

  • Partnership structure and benefits

  • Marketing opportunities to the Bonner network

  • Next steps and timeline