• Scholarship dollars awarded in 2022–23: $889,735
  • Scholarships awarded to full- and part-time students in 2022–23: 343

Access to Learning

The College of Continuing and Professional Studies (CCAPS) provides access to the best of the University of Minnesota, particularly for nontraditional students. From first-generation college students to hardworking professionals, most CCAPS learners are preparing for careers in high-demand industries, with the underlying purpose of contributing to society. 

CCAPS believes education unlocks limitless opportunities and should be accessible to all. Therefore, it is the College’s goal to bridge gaps that exist between society and higher education. CCAPS offers scholarships for learners of all ages and backgrounds and seeks to grow these funds to support even more learners. Additionally, it is CCAPS’ goal to attract and support a more diverse and inclusive group of instructors to reflect the diverse student population. 

 

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Minimize Student Debt

Bilal Syed

Many CCAPS students face financial challenges. About half of our undergraduate students are the first in their families to attend college. They have big dreams but must work hard to overcome barriers, including the significant cost of earning a college degree. CCAPS invests in these students to ensure that they have access to the many learning opportunities the University of Minnesota offers and that they are job-ready when they graduate

"I realized health care management was perfect for me—I’d be able to help people and be challenged by the work. Because of this scholarship, young students like me are on track to help our communities, and that is something deserving of massive praise.”

Bilal Syed, a recipient of the CCAPS Scholarship, majored in Health Services Management with a public health minor. As a student, he was the vice-president of the Pakistani Student Association and an intern for Be The Match.

Recruit Students

Brinnon Kubista

Many organizations look to the University of Minnesota for talent. In recent years, there has been a call for highly skilled graduates from degrees offered by CCAPS, including construction management, health care, information technology, biological sciences, addictions and mental health counseling, and horticulture. CCAPS competes with other universities for these students, and scholarships can help attract high-potential and diverse learners.

“Through the financial assistance these generous scholarships provide, I'll be able to complete my degree without the stress of long-term financial burden.” 

Brinnon Kubista completed a dual major in architecture and construction management, and was the first recipient of the Knutson Construction Scholarship. She was also a recipient of the PCL Construction Management Scholarship. 

Attract and Support Instructors

Deanna Cummings

CCAPS courses are taught by leading faculty from the University, as well as professionals in the community, who bring expertise into the classroom. The College supports these experts with curriculum development, teaching advice, and technology to ensure that students have meaningful learning experiences. Funds to recruit more diverse instructors ensure that these teachers better reflect the changing diversity of CCAPS students. 

“Know yourself. Think about how to bring the best of yourself to whatever you’re doing. As leaders, we sometimes feel like we must know everything, but we don’t. When we know our strengths and weaknesses, we’re better able to lead collaboratively. People want to be involved, not directed.”

DeAnna Cummings, Arts and Cultural Leadership faculty member, is the cofounder and former CEO of Juxtaposition Arts, an organization that prepares young urban artists to enter the creative workforce through education, employment, and empowerment.

Our Stories

50%
of CCAPS scholarship recipients were first in their families to attend college.

Jean Marcel Njokou image

"The scholarship help is priceless and encourages me to get good grades. I feel empowered to make a difference."
—Jean-Marcel Njokou

 

 

$520K
in scholarship funds awarded to CCAPS students in 2021−22.

Rosa Raarup image

"I wanted to open up new doors, which this program definitely does. You are surrounded by so many great thinkers here."
—Rosa Raarup

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49%
of CCAPS scholarship recipients identified as Black, Indigenous, or people of color (POC).

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"I never felt limited about what I could do with my education. Now that I’ve graduated, it feels liberating."
—Yara Grieder

Scholarships

Learners of all ages and backgrounds may apply for CCAPS Scholarships, which are awarded on the basis of financial need and academic achievement. Awards are available to students taking credit or noncredit courses on a part- or full-time basis, unless otherwise noted.

Giving Options

Thank you for your interest in supporting CCAPS. Your generosity provides necessary funding for student scholarships, program development, and life experiences necessary for our students to reach their personal and educational goals.

If you’re interested in mailing a check, monthly giving, planned gifts, matching gifts, wire transfers, or gifts in kind, you can learn more on the University's Ways to Give webpage.

Give to CCAPS

 

Contact Information

Questions about giving or ways to give? Contact:

Courtney Barrette
Director of Engagement & External Relations
barr0396@umn.edu612-625-1253