Encouraging Adult Learning: The Mildred B. Erickson Fellowship

An Investment in Human Potential

If you have had to interrupt your degree studies for a significant amount of time, and can demonstrate financial need, the Mildred B. Erickson Fellowship is designed for you. The individual scholarships cover the approximate cost of one course, undergraduate or graduate, for up to two semesters through Michigan State University and its Regional Centers.

The Mildred B. Erickson Fellowship will be included as part of your financial aid package from MSU. You may receive more than one fellowship award to assist you in earning a degree, but you must re-apply each semester

Applying for a Grant

A limited number of scholarships have been available each year since the program began in 1974. Members of the Erickson Fellowship Board read all applications and designate the award recipients. All monies for these scholarships are donated.

The application is designed to help members of the board become acquainted with you: who you are and why you want a university degree, your financial and personal needs, and your goals and dreams for life after graduation. Decisions about awards are based on the content of the applications. Take the necessary time to complete the application carefully and legibly.

Download, view, and print an application using the links below
[pdf files will open in a new window]:

You may also request a paper application by e-mail at: wrc@msu.edu or by calling the WRC at 517-353-1635. Be sure to provide your full name, telephone number, and home address in your message.

Finally, you can pick up an application from these locations on the Michigan State University campus:

  • Women's Resource Center, 332 Union Building
  • Office of Financial Aid, Student Services Building
  • The Graduate School, Linton Hall
  • The offices of academic advisers in the various colleges across campus

Applications are due on the following dates each year:

    Fall Semester: May 15
    Spring Semester: September 30
    Summer Semester: February 15

The Fellowship and MSU

Funds are administered through the university and are subject to all Michigan State University policies. The Fellowship, however, is independent and has a board of directors consisting of university and community members.

For more information contact:

    Mildred B. Erickson Fellowship
    Women's Resource Center
    Michigan State University
    332 Union Building
    East Lansing, Michigan 48824-1029
    Telephone: (517) 353-1635 | Fax: (517) 432-3846


"After my husband died leaving me with two young children, I knew that completing my education was critical to our future. Yet our resources were limited. The scholarship provided needed financial assistance; and I found an even greater benefit in the morale boost given by Scholarship Board's belief in me."
-- Susan Zimmerman



"A mini-midlife crisis caused me to abandon my career in business administration and return to MSU full-time in pursuit of a degree in horticulture. As a single woman, this was a very risky move to make. However, the generous financial support this older adult student received from the Mildred B. Erickson Fellowship proved the risk more than worth it! Now, working in the field of my dreams, I can encourage others to take a risk and pursue their dreams, through my donation to the Fellowship."
-- Mary McLellan

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