Career Development Grants

The Career Development Grants, offered by the American Association of University Women, are designed to support the career advancement of women who are preparing to change careers, advance in their current field, or re-enter the workforce. The grants provide financial assistance to women pursuing their first advanced degree or credentials in various fields, including education, health and medicine, science, technology, engineering, math, and social sciences. The funding can be used for both full-time and part-time coursework, including second bachelor’s degrees, first master’s degrees, certification programs, or specialized training. The primary purpose of the Career Development Grants is to empower women by facilitating their educational and professional growth. The program aims to assist those who are seeking to enhance their qualifications and skills in order to improve their career prospects. The grants are particularly focused on women who have faced challenges in their educational or professional journeys, thereby promoting resilience and determination in overcoming obstacles. Funding for the Career Development Grants ranges from $8,000 to $20,000, depending on the type of program pursued. For degree programs, the maximum award is $20,000, while non-degree programs can receive up to $8,000. The disbursement of funds is structured differently for degree and non-degree programs. Degree program funds are distributed in two equal payments at the beginning and midpoint of the grant term, while non-degree program funds are provided in full either at the start of the grant term or when the program begins. The grant period is set from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026. To be eligible for the Career Development Grants, applicants must identify as women and hold a bachelor’s degree earned on or before June 30, 2017. They must be pursuing either a degree or a non-degree program in the specified fields of study at an accredited institution in the United States. Applicants pursuing degree programs must be enrolled for the entire grant year, and those seeking a second bachelor’s degree must choose a program that differs from their previous field of study. Non-degree program applicants must be enrolled for at least six months during the grant year. Preference is given to applicants who have demonstrated resilience in overcoming life challenges, are first-generation college graduates, lead single-parent households, or reside in specific states. The application process requires potential grantees to submit their applications by the deadline of November 15, 2024. The application will include specific questions that assess the applicant's background, educational goals, and the challenges they have faced. Evaluation criteria will focus on the applicant's academic and professional aspirations, the relevance of their chosen program to their career goals, and their demonstrated resilience. Important dates to note include the application deadline of November 15, 2024, and the grant period, which runs from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026. For further information, applicants can visit the American Association of University Women’s website or contact their support team via email or phone. This grant opportunity is open to women across all states and counties in the United States, making it a valuable resource for those looking to further their education and career prospects.