Scholarship Overview

Ulster University, known for its commitment to excellence in higher education, offers various scholarships to support students from around the globe. Among these, the John J. Sweeney Scholarship stands out for its prestigious recognition and significant financial support. This scholarship is a tribute to John J. Sweeney, AFL-CIO President Emeritus, honoring his impactful contributions to workers' welfare in the US and internationally.

Host Institution(s)

Ulster University, a leading institution in Northern Ireland, hosts the John J. Sweeney Scholarship.

Level(s)/Field(s)

The scholarship is available for full-time study in specific Master's programs. These include MSc Peace and Conflict Studies, MSc Social Policy, LLM Human Rights Law and Transitional Justice, LLM Gender, Conflict and Human Rights, LLM Access to Justice, MSc Construction Management, MSc Management and Corporate Governance, MSc Manufacturing Management, and MSc Business Development and Innovation.

Scholarship Value

The John J. Sweeney Scholarship is valued at $20,000, primarily applied towards tuition fees for eligible MSc or LLM programs at Ulster University. If any funds remain, they may be used for study materials, course-related activities, living expenses, and travel costs. This scholarship is supported by the AFL-CIO, the American labor community, and various business and civic organizations.

Eligibility

To be eligible for the John J. Sweeney Scholarship, applicants must:

  1. Be a US citizen.
  2. Have been offered a full-time place on one of the specified MSc or LLM programs at Ulster University and have committed to the university.
  3. Be a US union member, have a familial connection to a US union member (mother, father, sibling, aunt, uncle, grandparent), or provide a reference letter from a union sponsor.
  4. Demonstrate academic excellence with a GPA of 2.8 or above in their undergraduate degree.

Application Instructions

Candidates interested in the John J. Sweeney Scholarship should apply online. The application must include:

  • A scanned copy of the original degree certificate showing a GPA of 2.8 or above.
  • A reference letter from a US Union sponsor (if applicable).
  • A personal statement between 500 to 750 words.
  • Two academic reference letters.
  • A scanned copy of their US passport.

Applications for the September 2024 intake open on October 1, 2023, and close on April 30, 2024. It is crucial for applicants to complete all sections of the form and attach the required documents to ensure a successful application.

Conclusion

The John J. Sweeney Scholarship at Ulster University is a remarkable opportunity for US students with a connection to the labor union community, seeking to pursue higher education in fields that align with the vision and values of John J. Sweeney. This scholarship not only offers significant financial aid but also celebrates the enduring impact of a figure dedicated to advancing the well-being of working people. For those who meet the criteria and aspire to further their education in a supportive and dynamic environment, this scholarship is an excellent pathway to achieving academic and professional success.