The community college experience lays the groundwork for a bold, shared vision: expanding access to education, supporting lifelong learning, and cultivating a more diverse and resilient public health workforce. This pathway values the distinct perspectives and lived experiences gained through community college and is committed to making public health leadership training accessible to those who seek to create lasting change.

Criteria for eligibility:

To be eligible, applicants must have completed two years of community college prior to pursuing a bachelor’s degree.

The NextGen Scholars program was launched in response to a desire to address the dual pandemics of anti-Black institutional racism and the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on communities of color. The goal of the NextGen program is to expand the diversity of voices in public health leadership and ensure that the next generation is more representative of the country’s diverse populations. In addition to earning their masters of public health degree, the students who are part of NextGen have the opportunity to develop leadership skills and build a network of professionals who will guide and support them in their public health careers.

Criteria for eligibility:

• Be working toward or possess a four-year, postsecondary degree from one of the recognized Historically Black Colleges or Universities (HBCU) in the United States
• Candidates with two or more years of work experience are strongly encouraged to apply

For those who have earned or are working towards a four-year degree from a Hispanic Serving Institution in the United States. This  cohort of students will bring an interest in the health issues that impact Latino and Hispanic communities. During their time at Brown, students will have the opportunity to collaborate with faculty on a variety of research and implementation projects.

Criteria for eligibility:

• Be working toward or possess a four-year, postsecondary degree from a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI)
• Candidates with two or more years of work experience are strongly encouraged to apply

Brown is making a commitment to Rhode Islanders by providing financial support, mentorship, leadership development, and academic and career advice. Those chosen for the program are asked to make a comparable commitment through service to the community. Scholars from Rhode Island will focus their practicum and their master’s thesis on a local public health issue. In addition, upon completing their studies, Scholars are expected to work in Rhode Island, or for the clear and specific benefit of the people of Rhode Island, for a minimum of two years.

Criteria for eligibility

• Be a Rhode Island native, a permanent resident, or a current resident of Rhode Island at the time of application
• Demonstrate a commitment to addressing public health issues that impact Rhode Island residents, through engagement or research with local organizations and communities
• Have demonstrated leadership ability and potential
• Candidates with two or more years of work experience are strongly encouraged to apply

Rural communities make up 20% of the U.S. population but face significant barriers such as limited access to care and higher rates of chronic diseases. Created for those dedicated to amplifying rural voices and strengthening rural health, this pathway prepares scholars to become public health leaders and drive lasting public health impact in rural communities. Rural health scholars are committed to bridging health gaps in rural areas through research, education, advocacy, and/or partnerships that put rural communities at the center.

Criteria for eligibility:

Requires a clear commitment to improving the health and well-being of rural communities. This commitment may be demonstrated through your educational background, volunteer experience, professional work, or research focusing on rural health.

Application Question: 

In 300 words or fewer, describe your commitment to rural health. What specific challenges in rural public health do you intend to address, and how do you or have you planned to promote healthier lives in rural communities?