Bluffton University Awarded $450,000 for Behavioral Health Scholarships

BLUFFTON, Ohio — Bluffton University has been awarded $450,000 through the Ohio Behavioral Health Scholarship (OBHS) program, a statewide initiative designed to increase the number of licensed behavioral health professionals serving communities across Ohio. 

The award, administered by Health Impact Ohio in partnership with the Ohio Department of Behavioral Health and the Ohio Department of Higher Education, will support up to 30 Bluffton University Master of Social Work (MSW) students through December 2028. Eligible students may receive up to $15,000 annually in scholarship funding, with institutional aid reducing tuition and general fees to $0. 

The Ohio Behavioral Health Scholarship program seeks to address critical workforce shortages by preparing graduate students to serve in community behavioral health centers, federally qualified health centers, school-based health clinics and other organizations supporting traditionally underserved populations throughout the state. 

“At Bluffton, we believe higher education should prepare students for meaningful careers rooted in service,” said Claire Kleman, vice president of enrollment and communication. “This scholarship removes financial barriers for future social workers while helping meet Ohio’s growing need for behavioral health professionals.” 

Students receiving the scholarship commit to working in Ohio following graduation in eligible behavioral health settings for a period equivalent to the number of years they receive funding. In addition to tuition assistance, the program allows funding for internship stipends and other educational expenses that support hands-on learning and workforce readiness. 

Bluffton’s Master of Social Work program combines rigorous academics with field education opportunities that prepare graduates for licensure pathways and professional advancement. The university’s emphasis on experiential learning and community engagement aligns closely with the goals of the scholarship initiative. 

“We are thrilled with how this award makes our online MSW program even more accessible for students!” said Dr. Jeanette Harder, MSW program director. “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 Ohio Behavioral Health Scholarship program runs through Dec. 31, 2028, and is expected to significantly strengthen Ohio’s behavioral health workforce while reducing barriers to graduate education. 

Eligible 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. Scholarship recipients must maintain satisfactory academic progress and agree to work in an approved behavioral health setting serving underserved Ohio communities after graduation for a period equal to the number of years they receive funding. Students interested in the scholarship should contact Brycen Boyle, adult and graduate studies graduate assistant, boyleb@bluffton.edu, to determine eligibility and complete the required participation agreement. 

For more information about Bluffton University’s Master of Social Work program visit www.bluffton.edu/msw.