Key information

  • Applications Open: Sunday 1 October 2023
  • Deadline for applications: Tuesday 30 April 2024
  • Value: $20,000 (USD)
  • Study Level: Postgraduate
  • Study Mode: Full-time

About this opportunity

This special scholarship is named in honour of AFL-CIO President Emeritus John J. Sweeney, the son of Irish immigrants, who dedicated his life to advancing the well-being of working people, making outstanding contributions to working people both in the US and internationally which will live on for years to come.

Value

The John J Sweeney Scholarship has a value of $20,000 and that is used towards the Scholar’s tuition fees for an MA or MSc at Ulster University.

This scholarship is generously supported by funds raised by the AFL-CIO, the American Labor community, business and civic organisations, and individuals.

*Any balance remaining may be used to purchase study materials/equipment, support course-related activities and/or in support of the Scholar’s living expenses and travel costs.

The John J Sweeney Scholarship supports US students enrolled to study full-time on the following MSc or MA at Ulster University:

  • 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
  • MSc Business Development and Innovation

Eligibility criteria

The Scholarship will be open to all US citizens who:

  • Have been offered a full-time place on one of the above MSc or MA and have made a firm commitment to Ulster University during the admissions phase;
  • Are a US union member; or;
  • Have a familial connection to a US union member (mother, father, sibling, aunt, uncle, grandparent); or;
  • Can provide a reference letter from a union sponsor.

How to apply

  • Candidates must apply via the online application form.
  • Applicants must ensure that all sections of the application form are completed with all additional requirements attached to the application.

These include:

  • Scanned copy of original degree certificate demonstrating achievement of GPA of 2.8 or above
  • Where applicable, reference letter from a US Union sponsor
  • 500 - 750 word personal statement
  • Two academic reference letters
  • A scanned copy of their US passport

Submission

Applications for September 2024 open on 1 October 2023.

Applications close on 30 April 2024.

Please contact Jonny at j.hill@ulster.ac.uk should you have any questions.

You can also book and one-to-one meeting with Jonny here.

Student Residency

Students from the following locations are eligible to apply for the scholarship.

  • International
  • USA

Eligible Campus Locations

Students studying at the following campuses are eligible to apply for the scholarship.

  • Belfast
  • Coleraine
  • Derry~Londonderry