Ohio Launched Behavioral Health Scholarship Program
The state has introduced an $18 million initiative to fund tuition for graduate students in behavioral health fields.
Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in Financial Aid
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The Ohio Department of Behavioral Health and the Ohio Department of Higher Education have launched an $18 million scholarship program to support students at 18 universities. The initiative aims to address a critical shortage of licensed behavioral health providers across the state.
Why it matters
By providing full in-state tuition coverage, the program seeks to bolster the state's workforce in mental health counseling, social work, and clinical psychology. Recipients are required to commit to working in underserved communities following their studies.
The initiative includes $2.5 million for $4,000 internship stipends and $1.2 million specifically for the University of Cincinnati. Eligible programs include master of social work, master of arts in mental health counseling, and doctorate in clinical psychology.
The players
Ohio Department of Behavioral Health
This state agency is responsible for overseeing mental health and addiction services for residents of Ohio.
Ohio Department of Higher Education
This cabinet-level state agency coordinates higher education policy and funding across Ohio's public colleges and universities.
University of Cincinnati
This public research university in Ohio is one of 18 institutions participating in the new scholarship program.
Health Impact Ohio
This organization is providing $2.5 million in funding to support internship stipends for health students.
The details
The scholarship program is open to current graduate students, though incoming students are not eligible. Students must apply through their respective academic programs and agree to practice in underserved areas to receive support.
Timeline
Fall 2026 marks the start of full tuition coverage for eligible students.
Spring 2028 is the final potential renewal period for the scholarships.
Culture Shift
This program aligns with the state's focus on bridging gaps in the healthcare workforce through targeted financial incentives. It represents a broader shift toward government-supported pathways for high-demand mental health careers.
Current graduate students in qualifying programs may now apply for full tuition coverage through their university departments. Eligible participants will be required to balance their academic pursuits with a commitment to future employment in underserved Ohio communities.
The takeaway
Students interested in these scholarships should coordinate directly with their academic department to verify eligibility requirements. This initiative offers a practical route for graduate students to reduce debt while fulfilling a critical need for mental health services in the state.
Further reading
For more information on state-funded education support, visit the Ohio Financial Aid section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Cleveland.
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