Graduate Program Financial Aid

Alumni and a student in the Finn Partners PR firm office The Finn Partners-Widmeyer Communications Scholar program helps launch the careers of SMPA graduate students with experience at a global PR firm.


The Media and Strategic Communication program offers competitive aid packages to accepted students and a variety of scholarship programs for current students. Prospective students may also contact the graduate office of financial aid to explore additional funding options.

Funding for Admitted Students

Dean's Scholarships

This merit-based scholarship provides significant tuition assistance for students with an exceptional academic record. The deadline to be considered for this funding opportunity is February 1.

Fischer Family Fund

This merit-based scholarship provides tuition assistance for students who are returning to school after working for a significant amount of time. Up to $5,000 is awarded toward tuition costs over the course of an academic year.

Graduate Assistant Packages

These competitive packages cover the cost of full-time tuition each semester (up to 9 credits) plus an $18,000 stipend and salary. Graduate assistants work 20 hours per week for a faculty member as a teaching and/or research assistant. This award is merit-based and priority is given to applicants who apply by the February 1 application deadline. Graduate assistant packages are renewable for two years.

National Council Graduate Scholarship

The National Council Scholar receives $5,000 per semester for one school year. This award is generously funded by the National Council for Media and Public Affairs, distinguished alumni and friends who advise the SMPA director.

Exclusive Fellowship

Finn Partners-Widmeyer Communications Scholar

The first of its kind at SMPA, this scholarship offers tuition assistance (3 credits per semester) and a paid, part-time internship at the Finn Partners D.C. office — just a short walk from campus. The scholarship provides students hands-on experience in a fast-paced global PR firm where they can apply the skills they are learning in the classroom.

Students are nominated by SMPA each summer and recommended for interviews and the final selection process at the PR News 2016 midsize firm of the year.