Pathway Grant FAQ
Minnesota State University, Mankato Professional School Counseling
Student Support Personnel Pathway (SSPP) Grant Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Amount of Award
The total award received by the Professional School Counseling program at Minnesota State University – Mankato from the Minnesota Department of Education is $749,000.
Award Period
Awards will be distributed during the 2026-2027 academic year.
Ongoing Funding
While the current award funds are earmarked to be distributed by June 30, 2027 – this grant program is designated by the State of Minnesota as an ongoing funding stream, and the program intends to reapply for funding in upcoming years.
Who is Eligible
The intent of the grant is to increase the number of individuals entering the field of professional school counseling while prioritizing people of color and Indigenous candidates as well as those respecializing in their career area.
All students admitted into the Professional School Counseling program are welcome to apply.
How to Apply
To be considered one must apply and be accepted to the Professional School Counseling Program at Minnesota State University – Mankato no later than August 1 of the year in which they wish to seek funding, complete a scholarship application, and be designated a recipient by the scholarship committee.
When to Apply
Please apply to the program no later than August 1 – funding is prioritized based on eligibility and acceptance. There will be a separate application process for the grant.
What Expenses are Covered
This grant will support up to the full cost of graduate school attendance at MSU-Mankato (tuition, housing, board, fees, and materials), along with stipends for fieldwork, conference attendance and professional development, and licensure fees.
How are Funds Awarded
Funds are awarded directly to the students online account as last dollar coverage for academic expenses. Field placement stipends as additional scholarship funding. Professional development, conference travel, and licensure fees will be paid in accordance with university policy.
What Supports of Resources Exists
To ensure student success the Professional School Counseling program will provide personalized, frequent advising, guaranteed course placement, and mentoring by counselors in the field.
Program Duration
Students can complete the Professional School Counseling program in two-years if attending full-time. Furthermore, course sections are offered on evenings and weekends to accommodate those currently working along with day-time sections for full-time students.
Required Internship
Students training to become professional school counselors are required to complete two semesters of fieldwork training in K-12 schools, totaling a minimum of 700 hours. At MSU-Mankato School Counseling faculty facilitate placement of our students in districts across the state.
Service Requirement
Students who accept funding from the Student Support Pathway Grant will be required to make their best effort to work a minimum of one year in a public Minnesota K-12 school, as a professional school counselor, for each year funded upon graduation.
For more information or to apply see the links below or reach out directly to Dr. Tracy Peed or Dr. Thomas Mitchell with questions.
