New Presidential Fellowship Program established to enhance doctoral research learning opportunities at the University of Cincinnati

University of Cincinnati (UC) President Neville G. Pinto, PhD, has allocated more than $700,000 to establish the Presidential Doctoral Fellowship Program to aid the recruitment of 15 high-achieving and diverse students into research doctoral programs.

“The Next Graduate Scholars Pathway of our ‘Next Lives Here’ strategic direction includes intentional efforts to elevate the experience of UC’s nearly 10,500 graduate students,” said UC President Neville G. Pinto. “The Presidential Doctoral Fellowship assures that our university will compete for top graduate students to recruit high-achieving and diverse students into our research doctoral programs.”

"The Presidential Fellowship Program and associated financial support affirms the University of Cincinnati’s commitment to expand graduate education opportunities at UC,” says Valerio Ferme, PhD, executive vice president for academic affairs and provost. “Graduate students are critical to our mission as an urban public research institution. This program will help attract exceptional students who will bring unique and diverse perspectives into our university community, and we want to ensure they are fully supported and exposed to a variety of academic offerings.”

UC has more than 3,000 graduate assistants, and stipends vary depending on the program.  The Presidential Doctoral Fellowship Program will help graduate students meet the increasing costs of living and alleviate stress associated with financial constraints so they can better focus on teaching classes, conducting research and scholarship while also earning advanced degrees.

“We are grateful for President Pinto’s support of graduate students and the Graduate College,” says Rose Marie Ward, PhD, vice provost for graduate studies and dean of the Graduate College. “This program creates opportunities for students who want to broaden their educational experiences beyond a traditional doctorate path. Students can customize an innovative learning ecosystem based on their unique needs and area of interest.”

Recruitment is underway for a soft launch of the program in the Fall 2023 Semester. The first cohort of students is being recruited from biomedical engineering, engineering, nursing, pharmacy science, engineering, school psychology, mathematics, English, communication, chemistry and sport administration departments.