AHEC Scholars Program
Hands-On Training for Future Healthcare Leaders
The Area Health Education Center (AHEC) Scholars Program prepares health professions students through advanced training, interprofessional learning, and community-based experiences focused on rural and high-need populations. Open to students in primary care–related disciplines—including medicine, nursing, pharmacy, mental health counseling, laboratory sciences, social work, community health, and applied health—the program offers opportunities for future healthcare professionals to deliver collaborative, community-centered care and improve access to quality services in underserved communities.
Why Become an AHEC Scholar?
- Gain real-world experience in rural and high-need communities
- Build teamwork and leadership skills
- Expand career and networking opportunities
- Make an impact in communities with limited healthcare access
- Earn national recognition upon completion
Become an AHEC Scholar: Apply Today
What You’ll Experience as an AHEC Scholar
- Didactic Learning: 40 hours per year of online and in-person learning activities
- Experiential Learning: 40 hours per year of clinical, community-based, or simulation experiences
- Flexible Credit: Many activities may align with your current coursework
- Program Commitment: Two years of participation (one year for select certificate programs, including CHW and applied health)
What is Involved?
- 40 hours of didactic learning each year (online and in-person)
- 40 hours of experiential learning each year (clinical, community-based, or simulation experiences)
Concurrent Credit?
Many AHEC Scholar activities may align with coursework and experiential learning already completed in your degree or certificate program.
Ready to Apply?
Start your application to become an AHEC Scholar.
Eligibility
Citizenship and Eligibility Documentation
In accordance with federal requirements, all AHEC Scholars must provide proof of U.S. citizenship or legal presence before receiving program benefits.
Acceptable documentation includes (one of the following):
U.S. birth certificate
U.S. passport
Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship
Consular Report of Birth Abroad
Permanent Resident Card (“Green Card”)
Eligible U.S. visa or other documented legal status
REAL ID–compliant state driver’s license or ID
Scholars are asked to complete a legally binding self-certification form confirming their status, as is required.
In addition, all Scholars receiving stipends are required to submit a W-9 Form (Request for Taxpayer Identification Number and Certification) as part of their onboarding packet.
All documentation must be on file before Scholars are eligible to receive stipends, services, or program support.
Who Can Apply?
Students enrolled in:
- A Certified Community Health Worker (CHW) course or applied health program, or
- A health professions program leading to a degree or certificate
Applicants should be practice-ready upon program completion and prepared to enter the healthcare workforce with their degree or certification.
How Long Is the Commitment?
- Health Professions Students: Two years (40 hours of didactic and 40 hours of experiential learning each year)
- CHW & Applied Health Students: Duration of the program
Does My Program Qualify?
If your program meets the criteria above and prepares you to enter the healthcare workforce upon completion, your program may qualify.
Do I Earn Concurrent Credit?
Many AHEC Scholar activities may align with your existing coursework and extracurricular activities. Contact AHEC staff to confirm eligibility.
What Counts as Didactic and Experiential Learning?
- Didactic Learning: Approved coursework, AHEC modules, webinars, seminars, conferences, or lectures aligned with one or more core topic areas
- Experiential Learning: Clinical rotations, preceptorships, volunteer activities, simulations, or community-based experiences serving rural or high-need populations
What Is the Application Review Timeline?
Applications are typically reviewed within two weeks of submission.
How Can I Apply?
Visit the AHEC Scholars page and complete the online application.
What Are the Core Topic Areas?
Educational and training activities will support education related to core topic areas such as:
- Interprofessional Education
Training that promotes coordinated, patient-centered care through collaboration across health professions - Behavioral Health Integration
Integration of mental health, substance use, and primary care, including provider resiliency and burnout awareness - Connecting Communities and Supporting Health Professionals
Development of community health workers and paraprofessionals to improve access, health equity, and community engagement - Virtual Learning and Telehealth
Use of telehealth, simulation, and virtual learning technologies to support care delivery and training - Practice Transformation
Improving quality and patient-centered care through teamwork, data, and innovative care models - Current and Emerging Health Issues
Addressing evolving public health challenges such as infectious diseases, opioid use, maternal health, and other priority issues
What Are the Application Deadlines?
The program year runs July 1 through June 30. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, and eligible hours completed during the program year may count toward requirements.