Ballmer Behavioral Health Conditional Scholarship

The Washington State Behavioral Health Workforce Development Initiative (BHWDI) supports master’s level mental health counselors, marriage and family therapists and social workers committed to serving individuals and families with mental health and substance use challenges. This Ballmer Behavioral Health Conditional Scholarship is now open for submission through July 1, 2025. However, the earlier you submit the better.

This program is providing funding for 20 spots to students beginning Walla Walla University’s MSW program in Fall 2025 who will reside and work within Washington state. A network of more than 100 community behavioral health agencies and tribal health centers in Washington serve as student training sites and potential employers in the communities where students want to live and work.

Highlights:

• Up to $51,500 in funding.
• Commitment to work 3 years post-graduation.
• Must obtain Washington state residency by the time your program begins. Open to those who are a US citizen or have legal documentation to work in Washington state. FAFSA or WASFA submission required.
• Last year for funding, ends after students start Fall 2025.

Join the effort to significantly decrease student debt and increase the number and diversity of exceptionally prepared graduates who work in the community agencies on which our state’s most vulnerable populations depend.

To be considered for the Ballmer BHWDI, prospective students must first be admitted to the MSW Program. Because the eligibility for the Ballmer BHWDI scholarship is based on student financial need, newly admitted MSW students should submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or Washington Application for State Financial Aid (WASFA).