Behavioral Health Scholars Program (BHSP)

APPLICATION DEADLINE FOR 2027-2028 ACADEMIC YEAR:

Returning students: December 15, 2026

Incoming students: February 15, 2027

*Applications will open on October 1, 2026.

Program Background

With support from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HRSA), 17 Master of Social Work students will be selected annually as Behavioral Health Scholars, receiving specialized coursework, intensive practicum placements, and faculty mentorship. The BHSP program trains MSW students to address the increasing children and youth behavioral health crisis by providing real-world experience at leading behavioral health agencies throughout Connecticut.

As defined by HRSA, integrated behavioral health care settings are defined as settings where behavioral health care and primary care services are co-located, and formal structures, procedures, or processes are in place that require or support collaboration or coordination between behavioral health providers and primary care providers.

Students who participate in this yearlong program will receive a $25,000 stipend. *Program and funding are subject to change.

Student Eligibility

MSW Individuals, Groups, and Families (IGFP) advanced year or advanced standing Hartford, Stamford Campus, Online, Advanced Standing (AS) Online students.
Priority given to students who reside in Connecticut
Demonstrated interest in providing behavioral health care to children and youth
In good academic standing

Program Requirements

Maintain a minimum 3.0 CUM GPA
Meet and complete UConn and agency requirements, and 480 hours in an integrated behavioral health practicum working with children and/or youth
Complete three required courses:
- SSW 5204 – Clinical Conditions with Children and Adolescents
- SSW 5995 – Special Topic: Integrated Behavioral Health Practice with Children and Youth (online)
- One of the following:
  - SSW 5414 – Core Concepts of Child and Adolescent Trauma OR
  - SSW 5423 – Core Components and Skills for Trauma-Informed Practice OR
  - SSW 5401 – Current Trends in Family Intervention: Evid-Based and Promising Practice Models of In-Home Treatment
Participate in various online educational and professional development activities:
- Practicum and Academic Success Seminar (PASS) meets three times in the fall semester and twice in the spring semester in place of the traditional practicum seminar
- Interprofessional education workshop with UConn students from health-related disciplines (fall semester)
- Attend two out of a series of three interprofessional trainings for the community
- Job search workshop (spring semester)
- Licensure preparation workshop (spring semester)
Complete surveys and participate in interviews to help evaluate and improve the BHSP.

Application Process

Prior to completing the application, please watch the video What is Integrated Care? from the
National Council for Mental Wellbeing.
After watching the video, complete the application and include a statement of interest (refer to the application for requirements).
Provide a recommendation from a course instructor, faculty advisor, or practicum instructor by asking that they complete the BHSP Recommendation Form.
Depending on the volume of applications received, finalists may be required to participate in an interview.