SMART-STEM Scholarship Program

The Rockhurst University SMART-STEM Scholars program seeks to support academically talented students with unmet financial needs to complete their Bachelor of Science degree in BiologyChemistry or Physics at Rockhurst.

The RU SMART-STEM Program focuses on Scholarships and Mentoring to Accelerate Retention and Training (SMART). SMART-STEM Scholars will be awarded scholarships up to $15,000 per year. Qualified first-time college students and transfer students who meet the eligibility requirements are encouraged to apply for this program after first applying to Rockhurst University

For more information about the SMART-STEM scholarship program, please contact smart.stem@rockhurst.edu.

Program Student Support Services

SMART-STEM scholarship program support services include, but are not limited to:

  • Faculty and peer mentorship programs centered on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and mental health
  • Networking opportunities with Rockhurst’s alumni and STEM career contacts
  • Program-specific events 
  • Team-building activities within a cohort-based learning model

SMART-STEM Scholarship Eligibility Requirements

SMART-STEM Application Requirements

  • Apply to Rockhurst University
  • Essay indicating your strong demonstration of STEM preparedness and/or interest and your future STEM career interests.
    • Examples could include STEM-related extracurricular activities and/or job experiences.
    • Applicants with limited activities or experiences may discuss their interests in pursuing STEM-related activities and/or careers.
  • Optional: ACT and SAT scores, if completed

Note: Preference is given to students who wish to pursue non-medicine STEM careers.

Application Process

December

SMART-STEM Scholars application will be available on this website. Potential applicants are encouraged to check back to find more details on the application process.

December

FAFSA becomes available. Applicants should complete their FAFSA (Rockhurst’s FAFSA Code is 002499) as soon as possible to determine financial eligibility for the program.

February

PRIORITY DEADLINE. Completed applications will be reviewed by SMART-STEM faculty mentors.

April

Scholarship offers will be made and continue on a rolling basis until all funds have been awarded.

May

Scholarship awardees must be admitted to Rockhurst University and pay their deposit by May 1.

The RU SMART-STEM program is supported by the National Science Foundation (DUE 2325765)