Financing Your Graduate Nursing Degree

FEATURED ARTICLE | APRIL 28, 2016 | BY JENNIFER VANLAEKEN, DIRECTOR OF GRADUATE STUDENT SERVICES, UB SCHOOL OF NURSING

piggy bank.

According to AACN data, in 2014 the average graduate student accrued over $57,000 in debt to complete his or her degree. With growing tuition rates in health sciences fields, it’s important that students understand all available financial opportunities. There are many different sources of funding students may utilize. These sources can be external (sources other than the college you are attending) or internal sources (funds offered by the college). We have outlined some opportunities below, but it is by no means an exhaustive list. It is worth taking some time to see what else you can find!

External Sources

Internal Sources

Whichever college you attend, make sure to find out what opportunities are available to you through the school. Many colleges have their own scholarships and assistantships you can apply for.

Students accepted to UB School of Nursing may explore other financial resources and opportunities through the School of Nursing and the University.

Visit the School of Nursing Graduate Finances and University at Buffalo Office of Financial Aid for more information.

Searchable Resources

It’s worth the effort!

Students find that at the graduate level it takes more time to apply and receive funding. Be aware that sometimes applications include essays, interviews and even transcripts that verify you are in good standing with the University.  Keep applying, even if you think you might not be selected.

Questions about financing your education at UB?

COMMENTS

I also found that certain ethnic groups will sponsor some scholarships. Not just minorities but Polish, Italian to name a few. Some of these scholarships are announced in the newspaper. Even if it's for an UG degree, check with them to see if they might be willing to give you some money too. Sometimes you have to "piece-meal" your financial aid but it's well worth it.

-Janice Jones, PhD, RN, clinical professor (UB SON)