Social Work Funding Opportunities in North Dakota Guide - 2026

Social Worker License

by Social Worker License Staff

Updated: May 6th, 2026

Social work students in North Dakota have access to several scholarships and stipends through the University of North Dakota, with opportunities for both undergraduate and graduate students. These funding options can help reduce education costs while supporting students preparing for careers in social work, child welfare, administration, public policy, and community service.

North Dakota Social Work Scholarships

Burkland Scholarship

Provider:

University of North Dakota, Department of Social Work

Amount:

Up to $1,500

Best for:

MSW graduate students

Eligibility:

Graduate students majoring in Social Work. Preference is given to indigenous students who are studying full time and demonstrate financial need, a minimum 3.0 GPA, academic achievement, community involvement, and professional aspirations.

Deadline:

November 1–March 1

More information:

Ken Dawes Social Work Scholarship

Provider:

University of North Dakota, Department of Social Work

Amount:

Up to $1,000

Best for:

MSW concentration-level graduate students interested in social work administration and public policy

Eligibility:

Concentration-level graduate students in social work who demonstrate potential for leadership in social work administration and public policy. Preference is given to applicants with a commitment to practicing social work in North Dakota.

Deadline:

November 1–March 1

More information:

Kris and Michael Compton Social Work Scholarship

Provider:

University of North Dakota, Department of Social Work

Amount:

Up to $1,000

Best for:

BSW undergraduate students

Eligibility:

Undergraduate students who have been admitted to and are pursuing a BSSW degree.

Deadline:

November 1–March 1

More information:

Stipends and Workforce Funding

Title IV-E Child Welfare Stipend

Provider:

University of North Dakota, Department of Social Work

Amount:

Up to $25,000 per degree

Best for:

Undergraduate and graduate social work students pursuing child welfare careers in North Dakota

Eligibility:

Undergraduate or graduate social work students interested in child welfare careers. Students must remain in good standing, complete an internship in a public or tribal child welfare agency, and complete required Child Welfare Scholars elective credit hours. UND also notes that IV-E funding is available to qualified MSW students who commit to working in an approved child welfare agency in North Dakota after graduation.

Deadline:

Currently accepting applications

Service obligation:

Students agree to work in a North Dakota Child Welfare Human Service Zone or ND Tribal Child Welfare Agency for a specified period after graduation, based on the number of semesters of funding received. The minimum service period is 12 months. Approved repayment positions include Child Protective Services, In-Home or Family Preservation Services, Foster Care Services, and ICWA Worker roles.

More information:

How to Use This Resource

Most University of North Dakota social work scholarships are administered through the UND AcademicWorks scholarship portal. Review each scholarship’s eligibility requirements carefully, including degree level, enrollment status, GPA expectations, preference criteria, and application window.

For the Title IV-E Child Welfare Stipend, pay close attention to the internship requirements, required coursework, and post-graduation work commitment. This stipend can provide substantial support, but it is designed for students who intend to work in North Dakota child welfare services after graduation.

Funding amounts, deadlines, eligibility rules, and application links can change. Before applying, confirm all details directly with the University of North Dakota Department of Social Work or the official application portal.

Last Verified

This resource was compiled using publicly available information from the University of North Dakota Department of Social Work and related UND program pages. Students should verify current details directly with the provider before applying.