Apply for a scholarship to Columbia Southern University’s online degree program

Online education provides many benefits for the busy lifestyle of a volunteer firefighter. Classes are more convenient; there are broader networking opportunities, subject matter expertise, and resource sharing; and overall, it promotes a healthier work-life balance allowing for a flexible schedule and an adaptable learning environment.

The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) and Columbia Southern University (CSU) are working together again in 2022 to provide scholarships to two NVFC members so they can further their education with the benefit of online learning. Each recipient will be awarded a scholarship that will cover up to 60 credit hours towards any one CSU degree program of their choice.

To be eligible for the scholarship, applicants must:

• Be a member of the NVFC. Learn about member benefits and join for just $21 at nvfc.org/join.
• Be a volunteer responder.
• Complete the CSU/NVFC scholarship application.
• Submit a 500-word essay on the impact this scholarship will have in your emergency services role.
• Provide at least one letter of recommendation from a teacher or someone at the fire department you reported to directly.
• Have a high school diploma or equivalent (GED) and be able to provide a transcript.
• Be able to begin coursework within 90 days of the date of the award.
• Maintain a 2.0 undergraduate GPA or 3.0 graduate GPA.
• Remain in good standing with CSU and the NVFC throughout the degree program.
• Maintain continuous enrollment in the CSU degree program for the duration of the scholarship.
• Current CSU students must already meet these requirements to be considered.
• Previous CSU scholarship recipients are not eligible.

CSU offers a wide range of accredited degree programs, including fire science, fire administration, occupational safety and health, and more. Scholarship recipients may pursue an associate, bachelor’s, or master’s degree.

The deadline to apply is August 17. An NVFC scholarship committee will select the winners, and recipients will be announced in October 2022. 

Learn more about this scholarship opportunity and apply on the CSU web site. For questions, please email the scholarship liaison at Scholarships@ColumbiaSouthern.edu or call 888-785-3006.