New Bursky Scholars Program will offer 10 exceptional incoming MPH students robust financial, mentorship and networking support

Public health is changing fast. The need for leaders in the field who are ready to reimagine systems, tackle the toughest challenges and advance new ideas is growing. The Andrew M. and Jane M. Bursky School of Public Health at Washington University in St. Louis is designed to meet this demand and is committed to finding innovative ways to get students into the workforce efficiently and well-prepared. Now with a generous new scholarship program, it will offer a group of the most exemplary students the opportunity to complete their degree with little to no student debt, which helps ensure they have the  freedom to choose the career path they truly want. 

The new Bursky Scholars Program offers a package totaling $105,000, to 10 exceptional 12- or 18-month MPH students each year. The scholarship covers tuition, living and personal costs, educational supply expenses and a practicum stipend. Selection of the Scholars will be based on an evidenced demonstration of academic excellence, leadership skills developed through academic, professional or volunteer roles and a commitment to public health exhibited through work, study or service.  It is one of the most generous, merit-based monetary scholarships available to MPH students in the country. 

In addition to financial support, scholars will join a tight-knit cohort who will serve as their peer network from the first day they step on campus. Together, they will shape this inaugural program, explore the biggest questions facing public health, have opportunities to be mentored by Dean Sandro Galea and other esteemed faculty, build their professional skills and, in time, become mentors to future Bursky Scholars.

“Bursky Public Health is built to foster passion and ingenuity, preparing students to bring fresh thinking and purpose to a field ripe for reimagining,” said Andrew Bursky. "The Bursky Scholars Program reflects our commitment to attracting exceptional talent and ensuring these future leaders can embark on their desired professional journey which we are confident will help people live better, healthier lives." 

Once they graduate, Bursky Scholars will be able to nurture a close relationship with their peers as well as future Scholars, giving them access to a network that grows over time. Every year, they will be invited back to campus and become mentors to the next group of Scholars. 

"A reimagining of public health requires leaders who can confront new, complex challenges with fresh thinking and new ideas," said Sandro Galea, MD, DrPH, the Margaret C. Ryan Dean and the Eugene S. and Constance Kahn Distinguished Professor in Public Health at Bursky Public Health and the vice provost for interdisciplinary initiatives at WashU. “Bursky is home to a talented and dynamic student body and our new Bursky Scholars Program gives us an opportunity to honor a group of individuals who have already proven their unique leadership and dedication to a field we know they will further enrich.”

Every student who is accepted to Bursky Public Health’s 12- or 18-month program will be invited to apply for the Bursky Scholars Program. This invitation will include additional details on application dates and required materials. The first class of Bursky Scholars for the 2027-28 school year will be announced in fall 2027.